Mount Chocorua via Liberty Trail

Mount Chocorua’s open granite summit rises over Chocorua Lake, creating a picturesque reflection not far from the Liberty Trailhead. Today’s Liberty Trail was previously the Chocorua Mountain Road, which led to a logging camp that later became the Peak House hotel in 1892. People were willing to pay large sums of money to visit because of the impressive view of Mount Chocorua; in 1915, however, the hotel was destroyed by wind. The hotel was replaced by a cabin in 1924, which was also later damaged by wind.  

Built in 1934, the Jim Liberty Cabin seen today was named after the man who owned the logging camp there in the late 1800s. It now offers nine bunks for hikers to camp in just below the summit. There’s an outhouse nearby, and also a water source, though the water may dry up at times.   

While the Liberty Trail is one of the easier trails to the summit, it is still a strenuous hike. Higher on the mountain, there are sections of open rock and places where you may want to use your hands. Ice or rain can make the open rocks even more difficult. This hike can be done as an out-and-back trip, or you can add the Brook Trail to make it a loop. Either way, you’re in for a spectacular view of the surrounding White Mountains and Lakes Region of New Hampshire.