Summary

Join me for a loop hike around Hancock (4420') and South Hancock (4319') Mountains.  This hike will have a twist over the classic loop in that we'll be descending via the spectacular Cedar Brook Slide after tagging the two summits.  Located at the southern border of the Pemigewasset Wilderness, Mount Hancock is characterized by a long ridge with several peaks, most prominently the North Peak and the South Peak.  Although both peaks are wooded to the top, nice views are available near each summit with views of Mt. Osceola and the Sandwich Range to the south, as well as into the Pemigewasset Wilderness.  The trail is mostly modest in grade until the junction with the north and south legs of the loop trail...after which it becomes steep for 0.5 mile to the first summit and ridgeline.  We will hike in a counter-clockwise direction and after reaching Mount Hancock, we'll backtrack a bit to start a modest bushwhack over to the Cedar Brook Slide.  This slide is comprised of soil and rock, and is modest in grade with spectacular open views of Mount Hitchcock and the Pemigewasset Wilderness.  We'll return via the Cedar Brook Trail through Hitchcock Notch.  NOTE:  The bushwhack portions of this hike are relatively easy.

Total Distance and Elevation Gain:  10.3 miles with approximately 3050 feet in cumulative elevation gain.  

Total Time:  About 7-8 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 summer hiking gear should be appropriate:  convertible hiking pants/shorts, good sturdy hiking boots with good traction and thick socks, a windbreaker/raingear.  Also bring along lunch, snacks and plenty of water (at least 2-L).  Optionally, pack sunscreen, bug spray 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.

Directions To Trailhead Parking Lot

Take Exit 32 off of Route 93 for Lincoln.  Continue east on Route 112 (Kancamagus Highway) for 10.7 miles.  Parking for this trip is at the Hancock Roadside Overlook.  This is just beyond the hairpin curve in the road.  The parking lot will be on the southwest side of the road.  Look for a gray Hyundai Elantra. 

For GPS Users:  Hancock Overlook on the Kancamagus Highway (44.040728,-71.523467).  To obtain custom directions, copy and paste the GPS coordinates directly into Google Maps.