White Mountains (NH/ME)
Overview
Mt. Chocorua is one of the most climbed and photographed mountains in the White mountains of New Hampshire. In the warmer months it's a relatively short hike to the dramatic treeless summit. In the winter it's a good day in the woods with a brief taste of winter climbing in the White mountains above the treeline. The peak is very popular and you will meet people even in the dead of winter.Legend has it that the peak was named after a local Indian Chief who died on it's peak. His son died while in the care of a settler named Campbell. In vengence, Chocorua killed Campbell's family and was chased to the top of the peak by local settlers, where he fell to his death.
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Getting There
The most popular trailhead (Piper Trail) is directly off of Rt. 16 behind the Chocorua Store. The Champney Falls trail off of the Kangamagaus Highway is also popular. This is the USFS website for hiking in the region. The AMC white mountains hiking guide also has exact directions to all thetrailheads.
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Red Tape
No permits are required for hiking, and the parking situation has recently gotten much better. The Trust for Public Landshas purchased land and created a large parking area at the Piper trailhead. Parking at some trailheads may require a White Mountains National Forest pass. Check here for the most recentregulations.
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When To Climb
The mountain is climbed year round. In the winter you will need crampons to reach the summit block safely. Ice begins forming on the summit in mid-November. Even in the summer the weather can change drastically once you cross the treeline. Click here for a recent weather forecast. |
Camping
Camping is allowed on National Forest Land in the area below the treeline and outside a "forest protection zone" around the peak itself. There is an unmaintained hut (the Jim Liberty Hut) south of the peak on the Liberty Trail. Check the White Mountains National Forest website for the most recent regulations.External Links
- www.mountainsummits.com
Nice Pictures and good description of Champney Falls trail
- USFS Trail info
Descriptions of Trails with link to map
- White Mountian Forest
USFS site with regulations and info for White Mountains National Forest
- Weather Forecast
Weather forecast for Chocorua Area.
