Mt. Chocorua is one of my favorite peaks in the White Mountains. Every time I see it, no matter from which vantage point, the word “magnificent” always comes to mind. Today, thousands of hikers climb the summit each year to experience its beautiful natural scenery and breathtaking views. In its earlier days in the annals of White Mountains history, however, Mt. Chocorua was the setting for a tale of grief and revenge.

New Hampshire's Mt. Chocorua, located in the Sandwich Range within the White Mountain National Forest, has fascinated explorers and artists for generations.
Public domain/Wikimedia Commons
It's long been a destination for hikers, starting with the first ascents of the mountain in the mid-1800s. But it was some 100 years earlier when it was a place of tragedy.
Internet Archive Book Images/Wikimedia Commons
Legend states that a Native American chief, Chocorua, left his son in the care of Cornelius Campbell and his family while traveling to Quebec.
Daniel Harris/All Trails

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In Chocorua's absence, his son became ill and died. In a fit of rage and despair, he killed Campbell's family upon his return.
Devon Langbein/All Trails
Campbell pursued Chocorua up the mountain, wounding him with a rifle shot. Rather than be captured, Chocorua placed a curse upon the settlers and leapt from the mountain to his death.
Patrick Parisi/All Trails
Since no formal records exist, that is course just one interpretation of the fate of Chocorua. Another variation of the legend states he was lost while hunting, but that's not quite as colorful.
Ken MacGray/Flickr
As you climb the mountain today, try to put yourself in the place of the chief as he was chased up to the summit, and recall this storied tale in White Mountains history.
Ken MacGray/Flickr

While Mt. Chocorua is a popular destination for hikers, it is also a mountain that should not be underestimated due to its difficulty and exposed summit. Hikers should be fully prepared with the proper gear and equipment to tackle a mountain such as Chocorua. For more information on the various routes up the mountain, consult the U.S. Forest Service and the AMC White Mountain Guide.

For more great hike ideas all across New Hampshire, also check out our guide to some of the best.

18 Best Hikes in New Hampshire: The Top-Rated Hiking Trails to Visit in 2023

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Mount Chocorua, Mt Chocorua, Albany, NH 03818, USA