New Hampshire 4,000-Footer Planning Guide – Mount Hancock

Note: For complete trail descriptions, times, elevation, trailhead directions, and major features, see the AMC White Mountain Guide.

Profile
Located at the southern border of the Pemigewasset Wilderness, Mt. Hancock is characterized by a long ridge with several peaks, most importantly the North Peak (4420’) and the South Peak (4319’). Although both peaks are wooded to the top, lookout ledges near the North Peak offer views of Mt. Osceola and the Sandwich Range to the south.

Suggested Routes
Strenuous: With wooded and easy to follow trails, Mt. Hancock makes for a solid out-and-back day hike. Approach via the Hancock Notch Trail to Cedar Brook Trail, which accesses the Hancock Loop Trail. The loop up and over both major summits can be done in either direction.

Trip Planning
Located within a morning’s drive from the AMC's Highland Center and Shapleigh Bunkhouse, Mt. Hancock is a great choice for those looking for the challenge of hiking a 4,000 footer, but could do without the degree of exposure in the higher Presidentials.

Safety
The AMC recommends all hikers check weather conditions in advance, carry a current map and guidebook, along with a compass and knowledge of how to use it. For recommendations on how to plan a safe hike in the White Mountains, see: The 10 essentials for a safe and pleasant hike.

Fun Fact
At one time Mt. Hancock was one of the most inaccessible mountains in the White Mountains, remote and trailless with slopes devastated by logging. Today Mt. Hancock is ascended routinely and flourishes with secondary growth.