Summary

Join me for this 9.3 mile loop hike, which will encompass the the steep Carter Ledges, the Three Sisters and the summit of Mount Chocorua.  While not a 4000-footer, Mount Chocorua has the feel of one.  It is very rugged and has excellent 360-degree views of the surrounding lakes, mountains, and forests.  Mount Chocorua's distinctive, bare summit can be seen from almost every direction and can be identified from many points throughout central New Hampshire and western Maine. The hike will ascend via the Piper and Carter Ledge Trails to the Carter Ledge and the Three Sisters (subpeaks).  After ascending the summit, we'll return by way of the Piper Trail.  There are lots of spectacular views along this route! 

NOTE:  This route may be modified, if there is rain or ice on the rocks, as the Carter Ledge Trail can be very dangerous.  This is NOT for the faint of heart.  If you are uncomfortable with heights and a steep drop-off, this is not for you!  Appropriate hiking boots with good traction are a must! 

Total Distance and Elevation Gain:  9.3 miles with approximately 2800 feet in cumulative elevation gain. 

Total Time:  7.5 hours depending on breaks and group's speed. 

Rain or harsh weather may postpone to another date or cancel, as appropriate. 

What to Bring:  Typical spring hiking gear should be appropriate:  convertible hiking pants, good sturdy hiking boots with thick socks, a windbreaker/raingear and extra layers (e.g. fleece)...or winter jacket depending on forecasted conditions in the Whites.  Also bring along lunch, snacks and plenty of water (at least 2-L).  Optionally, pack sunscreen and anything else that you may require for a day hike. 

Carpooling:  Contact other participants or the trip leader to arrange for a rideshare to the trailhead. 

Afterwards:  If there is sufficient interest, we will have drinks and/or dinner in the area.

Directions To Trailhead Parking Lot

FROM POINTS SOUTH CONVENIENT TO ROUTE 93:  Take Route 93 to Exit 23.  Take Route 104 East for 8.2 miles.  Turn onto Route 3 and follow for 0.9 miles to the intersection with Route 25.  Take Route 25 for 19 miles and then turn onto Route 113 East.  Follow NH 113 for 2.9 miles.  Just after the village of Tamworth, turn right onto Page Hill Road.  Follow this for 3 miles to Route 16 in Chocorua (NOTE:  If you stay on NH 113, you'll get to the same point.).  Take Route 16 North for 6 miles to the Davies Campground and General Store (on your left just before Moulton Drive). 

FROM POINTS SOUTH CONVENIENT TO ROUTE 16:  From Portsmouth, NH, drive Route 16 North for roughly 70.8 miles to the Davies Campground and General Store (see above).

The trailhead parking area is accessed by a dirt road off NH Rt 16 behind Davies Campground and General Store, 6.1 miles south of the juntion with the Kancamagus Hwy (Rt 112) in Conway.  Look for a gray Hyundai Elantra. 

For GPS Users:  43.939451, -71.225266  (approximate address 2509 NH Route 16; Albany, NH – at the intersection of Moulton Drive).  Meeting Time:  9:00 AM.