Mount Chocorua

Mount Chocorua reaches about 3,485 feet (1,061 meters) and features a rocky bare summit at the southern end of the White Mountains within the Appalachian range. The exposed rock crown rises above forested slopes that cover the mountain's lower reaches.

The name comes from an Algonquin language and translates roughly to Rocky Home of the Water Serpent, reflecting Native American presence in the area. Wildfires during the 1800s and early 1900s burned away the vegetation and created the bare rock summit that makes it stand out today.

The mountain appeared frequently in landscape paintings by American artists during the 1800s, which helped make it one of the most recognizable peaks in New England. Its distinctive silhouette became deeply connected to the region's artistic identity and continues to inspire painters today.

Several trails lead to the summit and take around six hours to complete the full round trip. The best route depends on your fitness level and how much time you have available for hiking.

The summit is one of the most photographed mountain peaks in New England and has appeared on countless postcards and in photography books over the decades. Its distinctive bare rock profile has made it a recognizable landmark far beyond the region.

Location: New Hampshire

Elevation above the sea: 1,061 m

GPS coordinates: 43.95428,-71.27330

Latest update: December 7, 2025 09:23