Adventure comes in many different forms. No matter what form adventure takes, there are some similarities. First there has to be a thrill. A rush of adrenaline or excitement that let’s you know you are alive. For us at Nothing But New England, that thrill, that rush is never more exciting than when facing the unknown. Whether that is a new destination, crazy activity, or wacky challenge, we do find ourselves saying “yes” to a great many opportunities. So here is our latest adventure, a hike. No it isn’t an insane hike along a 2 inch wide trail thousands of feet off the ground (those plans are still in the works). This is a little different kind of adventure. A haunted hike. Yep, there are haunted hikes in New Hampshire. In fact there is a whole book of them,

and Nothing But New England is taking a look. Are you up for the challenge of New Hampshire’s haunted hikes?

Madame Sherri’s Castle Ruins – (No Hiking)

Our first haunted hike took us to a forest in West Chesterfield, New Hampshire. The site is the ruins of Madame Sherri’s Castle. Built in the early 1900s, this chateau was the summer home of a well known costume designer Antionette De Lilas (aka Madame Sherri). The property burned down in 1962 leaving only the stone arches, basement, foundation, and amazing spiral staircase that ends abruptly. Affectionately known as the “Stairway to Heaven”.

Visitors have claimed to hear faint laughter or even waltz music playing while touching the staircase. There are even reports of a pale specter of Madame Sherri gliding down the staircase. I was seriously creeped out with a feeling of dread on the staircase, but I’m attributing it more to my fear of having a crumbling stone staircase collapse while I’m trying to conquer my fear of heights.

View going up the Stairway to Heaven

Hike Rating – The easiest of 3 haunted hikes we did. It is around 500 ft. away from the parking lot.

Creep Factor – Varies. I was really creeped out by the place. Cathy and my son had no issues or experiences.

More information about Madame Sherri Forest hiking

Monson Village Ghost Town – (Easy Hiking)

How the road looks today

Next up on our haunted hike list is the ghost town of Monson Village. Located in what is now Milford, New Hampshire, this former pioneering village was established in the 1746.

There have been numerous reports of paranormal activity such as distant Native American drum beats, and flashes of lights in the woods. There have been so many reports that paranormal investigators (Ghost Quest) have even visited and certified the presence of ghostly activity.

The town itself sits on 215 acres of land with over 2.5 miles of trails to walk through beautifully eerie woods, sprawling meadows, and picturesque wetlands. Along the trails you will see the cellar holes of former homes and plaques giving backgrounds on the former owners.

Hike Rating – Easy trails that are fairly flat. Loop trails should take 1-2 hours.

Creep Factor – Definitely can understand the paranormal activity. Lots of tension existed between the pioneers and the Native Americans. There is a creepy vibe. I actually saw a flash of light in the woods, but wasn’t aware at the time that was one of the reports paranormal activities. Paranormal or not, it is very cool to explore.

More information about Monson

Mt. Chocorua – (Moderate/Strenuous Hiking)

After climbing over a false summit, the true summit appears

View from the summit of Mt. Chocorua

The final haunted hike let us up Mt. Chocorua in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Mt. Chocorua’s history involves a story of betrayal, loss, and a curse. Chief Chocorua of the Pigwacket tribe had befriended earlier settlers. While under the care of a settler family (Campbell), Chief Chocorua’s son died. Chief Chocorua’s cries could be heard for days echoing down his mountain refuge. In a fit of rage, Chocorua took vengeance on the Campbell family. When other settlers tracked down Chief Chororua atop his mountain, he cursed their families before meeting his end. It is said that Chororua’s sorrowful cries can still be heard on Mt. Chororua.

Hike Rating – Strenuous. The Champney Falls trail is the easiest trail up the 3500 ft. mountain. Total distance up and back is 7 miles and takes on average 6 hours. The views are amazing and worth the effort.

Creep Factor – Ominous summit with a rocky peak. Use caution if you attempt the climb. I was more afraid of falling then of ghosts. Great views!

All the haunted hikes we went on had something unique to offer. Whether you have a paranormal encounter or just a fun hike with amazing views, hopefully you will be inspired to go on your own adventure and maybe even hear a faint roar of a Wildcat out on another adventure.

Ready for some hiking in New Hampshire that isn’t haunted?

Looking for a haunted place to eat at after your hike? Check out these haunted places in New Hampshire.

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