Mount Chocorua

Mount Chocorua Information

Mount Chocorua, with its summit reaching 3,490 feet (1,060 meters), is a distinguished peak in New Hampshire’s White Mountains and the easternmost point of the Sandwich Range. While not the tallest mountain in the area, Chocorua stands out for its rugged terrain and the breathtaking vistas it offers. From its summit, hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding lakes, mountains, and expansive forests.

Renowned for its distinct and bare summit, Mount Chocorua is a prominent feature in the landscape, visible from numerous vantage points across central New Hampshire and western Maine. Its striking appearance has made it a muse for various artists, inspiring a multitude of artworks over the years.

The mountain is well-frequented by hikers, with numerous trails leading to the top, each offering a unique experience of the area’s natural beauty. At the mountain’s base to the south lies the picturesque Chocorua Lake, enhancing the scenic allure of the region.

The name “Chocorua” is believed to be of Algonquin origin, roughly translating to “Rocky Home of the Water Serpent.” (Historical records from the 1760’s referred to the mountain as “Coruway,” a European adaptation of the pre-Columbian term “corua,” which denoted a serpent believed to guard mountain springs.) These serpents were considered messengers from the underworld, residing in crevices of high places. The term “Choc” in Eastern Algonquin refers to “heavily eroded rocks,” as seen in other geographical names like the Chic-Choc Mountains in Quebec, Canada. Thus, the name Mount Chocorua poetically combines these elements to signify the “rocky home of the water serpent,” a nod to both its physical characteristics and the rich cultural lore surrounding it.