This is a great day hike for those in the D.C. area, about an hour's drive from the city. Sugarloaf is owned by the Stronghold corporation, and they help maintain and improve the land using funds from a trust fund, membership dues, and gifts. It is free to hike and park, although they do have a donation box at the entrance. The highest elevation is a little over 1,280 feet. Oak trees dominate most of the mountain, but you can also see some black gum trees, black birches, and eastern hemlocks. There's a couple of parking lots, although they fill up quickly on the weekends. Try to park in either the East or West View lots. There are 4 circuit hikes: +Blue/Northern Peaks Trail: 5 miles starting from the West View lot. +Purple/Alternate route to White Rocks: 1.5 miles by itself, adds 1/2 mile to the total distance if using as an alternate to the blue trail. +White/Mountain Loop Trail: 2.5 mile loop around the summit. +Yellow/Saddleback Horse Trail: 7 mile loop around base of the mountain. There are also 3 summit area hikes: +Green/A.M. Thomas Trail: 1/4 mile trail to the summit. +Orange/Sunrise Trail: Steep 1/4 mile trek to the summit. +Red/Monadnock Trail: Leaves the blue trail for a 1/4 mile hike to the summit. Last time I was here, I started on the white trail from the East View lot and then joined up on the blue trail to hike to White Rocks. We mistakenly ended up on the yellow trail on the way down the mountain, which added a few extra miles and time. It all worked out though, and we were able to hike down to the entrance and back up to the parking lot. All in all, it took us about 4.5-5 hours to complete the hike. Wear proper shoes, especially if you're planning to hike some of the longer trails. I don't think any of the hikes are particularly difficult, but sometimes the rocks can be slippery. This is a popular hiking destination, so expect lots of people. We saw tons of groups ranging from children to older adults, as well as dogs. Since there are plenty of trails ranging in varying degrees of difficulty, you can pick and choose which trail to walk depending on your level. The view at the summit is pretty nice, although not as great as those in Shenandoah. But it is free, closer to the city, and well-maintained. Trails are generally well-marked too. We saw a family of white tailed deer here, as well as a dead snake. I've heard there's also raccoons, foxes, and rabbits around. read more

Sugarloaf Mountain - Komorebi, Japanese term for "sunlight filtering through the trees" - Hiking Near Me - Dickerson, Maryland

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Elevation is all about perspective, relative distance to the ground, not an absolute concept. Getting high in some places, like Colorado, is easier to do than in, say, the District of Colombia and surrounding suburbs. But it can be done. And in fall foliage season, the sight of sweeping hardwood forests in patchwork autumn colors, well even the Rockies can't pull that off, except in bits and pieces of aspen and cottonwood separated by vast swaths of rock and pine. So Sugarloaf Mountain has an undeniable appeal; it's a beautiful place for a 3-hour long hike that takes in all the summit overlooks, starting from the West View parking area. My advice is head direct on Red Trail to the summit, savor the views, then make your way to the Blue Trail loop, which partially follows the Orange and White trails, but basically is a slender and rock-strewn ribbon winding through trees that are utterly spellbinding in October sunny splendor. Mid-70s, clear skies, leaves on trees and covering the ground, raptors soaring on thermals over the exposed rocky tops, farmland with apple cider and pumpkins for the picking, historic mansions and rolling fields and equestrian trails and the Potomac River and an Appalachian skyline; pop Mandolin Orange's "This Side of Jordan" in your music device, and bang, it's the ultimate outdoor adventure, all wrapped up in a nostalgic, seasonally-adjusted bow. Try doing that in the Sierra Nevada in October, and it just isn't the same. Monadnocks* like Sugarloaf have got serious game. And 7 miles in the woods won't do you any harm, neither. It just might make your next visit to the District all that much more wild, like it did to mine. Hard to find fault with that! (*) "A mountain or rocky mass that has resisted erosion and stands isolated in an essentially level area." read more

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best sunset in MD. come late in the afternoon and hike up from the west view parking lot and stay till sundown. Bring a flashlight to make sure you can head down the steps safely with limited light! please no trash! no need to be a super hiker, paths well maintained. it's more of a chill place to appreciate the scenery versus an outdoor adventure. plethora of trails around the mountain but honestly the only to see is at the top. assume 30+ min from parking lot to the top unless your on a mission and want to hurry. read more

Great place to soak in nature for both amateur and well-seasoned hikers. Lots of different trails to pick from, some with excellent (but not exactly *impressive* viewpoints of the surrounding areas), some that are easier than others. There's a decent amount of people here on a good day, but since the area is so large, the trails are mostly empty and quiet! We couldn't find parking at the base of the mountain before the entrance, so drove up to the East lot and parked on the road since the lot was also full. We took the white/blue (and a combination of other trails), and my Fitbit averaged 15 miles and 170 floors (about 28,000 steps)! The flexibility of the different trails definitely allows you to choose the difficult of your hike. And bonus point, DOG FRIENDLY! read more

Sugarloaf Mountain - Hiking Near Me - Dickerson, Maryland

A wonderful hiking spot with great options for beginner to expert hikers. I spent a good 6 hours hiking here in the on a pretty Sunday in the spring 2013 and was able to get 12 miles in. The first 3 miles going up and down some pretty rocky areas, and the last 9 were spent going around the mountain on a more flat terrain (though we were lost for 2 of those miles). Unfortunately, I don't remember the color of the trails I used. It's not as gorgeous as say...Great Falls, at least when I went it was pretty brown, though there is pretty green land surrounding it. So maybe 3 stars for views & scenery, but the hike it well worth it. I would have been back more often however my east coast allergies couldn't take the outdoors thing any longer. There is a wonderful winery next door. Perfect for afterwards. read more

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* Family-friendly hike; not very strenuous at all (don't need to be a hiking pro) * Free parking/entrance...but scarce! (maybe like 15 spots at the bottom, max?--- "DONT MOVE THE CONES!!" ...totally could fit like 2 more cars if those cones werent there...) * Well-patrolled...had to have seen the sheriff drive by 10 times while we were waiting for the group to gather... * Close to DC * Trail markings are excellent! * Views OK, a couple good ones! * Careful about plugging the address into your GPS...mine took me to a ranch on the other side. But that just might be mine... read more

This is a great hike! If you can find it! Ah, but with GPS these days, what can't you find??? So once you enter, there is a long road up the mountain with twists and turns. So if you aren't an avid hiker, you can just stop at the overlooks for the views. But for the full experience! Hike! I like starting at the base, but if you get there later in the day, there is be limited parking and you will have to stalk people for a spot. Or else, just drive on in, pick up a map, which they mow have moved so they are more visible from the road. Then park in one of the overlook lots. There are a lot of different trials that intersect with each other, so study and map it out carefully. At time it can be confusing as to which path you are on. Don't forget to climb the highest point! It can be a challenge, and there are two directions to approach it. I won't tell you which approach is easier ;) and yes, I have done them both. The trails are mostly shaded with trees and as you ascend there is a breeze... so think fall with the color change :) Happy hiking! read more

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Hiked March 20, 2010. May be different at other times of the year. Adequate hike nearby DC. Good for children, beginners, casual strolling with babies, dogs - not really a serious hike. Parking was frustrating - there's a lot when you first enter, and two secondary lots higher up, but drive THROUGH the gates. Don't drive on the side road that's outside of the gates - that goes nowhere! If you are on a gravel bumpy road with farms on the side, turn around. Scenery - below average. Nothing to write home about, you have two little overlook rocks of some houses and farms. Blah. There's no rock scrambles or anything of interest in terms hiking. Dirt ditches, dead leaves, no waterfalls or streams. Crowd - It's busy and full of people. I prefer more secluded hikes. Peeing in the woods? Forget it. Purple trail - just a longer route with no added benefit, except for horse poop and mosquitoes. read more

Sugarloaf Mountain - Hiking Near Me - Dickerson, Maryland

This is an isolated attraction in a lonely part of the country (though there are several worthwhile stops immediately near the mountain, there isn't much else for miles). There are several trails and ample parking. Some require climbing, some are flat, one has about a thousand stairs. There are some good views of the region to be had near the top. If you're in/around DC, it's not as good as the Cactoctin or Blue Ridge areas, and not as close as Great Falls and Rock Creek Park, but perhaps an acceptable compromise on both fronts and a way to get out and try something different. Entry is free. read more

Had a really wonderful time visiting the mountain this weekend! Easy parking and very clearly marked trails. We took started by hiking to the summit on the orange trail (about 1/4 mile straight uphill) and then took the red trail down to the mountain to catch the blue trail, which was followed the whole way around. It was incredibly peaceful and not too crowded. Also very dog friendly! Would definitely recommend. read more

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Hiked with an old friend today - packed a picnic and ate on the summit. Gorgeous views. Orange trail up -- not an easy stroll. A good workout. Red-blue-white down the mountain - much more chill. We had some confusion coming down as the trail requires a stretch back up before returning to parking and we weren't sure if somehow we were heading back to summit. Group of four women had the same question. Great hike! read more

Sugarloaf is a nice half-day trip from the DC area. Its privately owned, but free to enter (it's donation-based). It's about a 45-50 minute drive from DC. I did the blue trail to White Rocks and then to the summit, and it probably took around 3 hours total for a 7-ish mile hike. The trails are very nicely marked. There aren't a lot of viewpoint areas, but it's a nice hike in the woods with some decent ups/downs but overall not overly strenuous. There were lots of dogs and families, as well as rock climbers, runners, and then casual hikers like me. There's also a vineyard close by for those interested! Overall a great trip out here and I'd definitely like to come back in the fall to see some fall colors!! read more

We parked at the east view parking lot and were able to catch a beautiful view before reaching the summit. We took the Orange trail up, which is a bit more of a challenge, but a 6 year old was able to make his way up. So, it's disable for mostly anyone. You need to wear proper footwear. Glad I bought Merrill shoes for this trip. The summit offers a gorgeous view which is probably best during the mid October month with changes in foliage. A great trip and right next to the winery! read more

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Hidden Gem in on the edge of Frederick County Maryland near the Montco Border. Lived in the area for all these years and read many articles about the Sugarloaf but never gave it a second thought till the other day back. We'll impression now changed completely, this hiking wonderland is bang for buck best of the best hiking outdoorsy spot in the local area. Easy access from I-270 and near the Sugarloaf Mountain Winery (no connection) this mountain has small parking area at the entry gate with winding road up to larger parking area just a hop, skip from the top. For technical types the climb is ~ 1000' (feet) of whatever you make out of the elevation change. The parking lot at the main entrance weighs in at around 200' (feet) and its up up and away from there. If youre in any kind of reasonable shape, skip the drive up and walk.. What a concept, walking through the woods... As the local posers drive SUV's up the road, you'll enjoy the scenic woods and trail sounds and scents. The sign at the upper parking are said Bears and Slithering Critters inhabit the woods, but sticking to the main trail, ensures no sightings will be made. Thats not to say go poking around under logs, or thick brush, or off the beaten path, if so that's on the hiker. Respect the mountain is the best advice here. There are porta-potties for those that need them, and packing plenty of fluids and bug-off is well advised. There is one section of the Orange? trail that gets the heart pumping but its only when the incline steepens at the snow fence. For the most part the average hiker will be just fine. There is an abundance of hiking sticks laying around so pick one up and it will come in handy for balance and traction when the going gets tough. At the top there is plenty of scenic views, rocks to perch atop, to test balance, and rock climbing walls where roping up with climbing gear was happening. The main entrance has a spot for donations but few if any paid. Its worth noting that whomever owns and maintains the property, is doing the public a great service and most generous and patriotic. The beauty, scenic views, scents, wildlife, freedom to roam, is well worth the price of admission. If you go, use common sense, dont get in over head and enjoy. Sugarloaf is for real adventure for the suburban hiker. read more

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Can I say it now? Is it safe to? We hopped the fence and snuck in before the park opened trying to catch the sunrise, but we were beaten to the top by a 50y/o power walker waited who until the park opened. What slowed us down was the scenery on the way up. It's interesting that a park would not only have trails that technically go to the top, but also has a road that allows you to drive there as well. First world problems, I guess. The summit is pretty sweet, it's a scene you'd find in a Disney movie when the explorers find a pristine new land, and by "pristine" I mean to say that there's only one power plant in the valley. (It's off to the right on the river.) The parking lot at the base was just a orgy of beautifully-formed metal and plastic, minus my car, which has that dent in it serving as a constant reminder of why I can't live in NYC. In fact, it's not really a parking lot, as so much as a collision of roads, with little offshoots serving as parking spots. So I would get there early, unless you want to wait for people to pack up and go. read more

Sugarloaf Mountain - Hiking Near Me - Dickerson, Maryland

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Sugarloaf can be fun for anyone. You can start at the bottom of the mountain bike all the way up which might take an hour for some inexperienced hikers or you can start at the top where there's a parking lot and stairs that go up. I've always enjoyed that way because I'm not super into hiking but also I can get to the overlook easily. It's a fun place for friends but just be cautious of your belongings. My friend had his water bottle stolen. In no way is it unsafe, his bottle was unattended for a few minutes. read more

Great place to hike with both short and long loops options. We went in June so the trail was well shaded throughout the hike. Parts of the trail was a bit rocky and there are some climbing that you have to do, but overall it was a good hike. If you choose to do the big loop, be prepare to spend at least 4 to 4.5 hours on the hike so be sure to bring snack and water to replenish. Many thanks to the trail users that keep the trail clean by taking your trash out of the mountain. There are porter-johns and trash cans at trail heads. read more

Sugarloaf Mountain - View from the White Rock - Hiking Near Me - Dickerson, Maryland

Came here as it is a dog friendly park and we had a blast! There were plenty of pups out. Just be sure to bring water and poop bags to take care of the environment. They have several paths you can take that are color coded. We took the blue path as we had our puppy and did not want her to tire out. Overall it was an easy hike except for the last mile! It is steep and heads straight up on an incline so it is not for the faint of heart. All of the trails are well marked which is vital to minimize the risk of getting lost or hurt. The overlook on the east parking lot is beautiful! Please stop there is you have the chance, you won't regret it. They have a picnic table there so it is the perfect spot for a romantic or friendly date! read more

Excellent hiking location for those that want a well traveled path and just a little off the beaten path for outdoor adventure. Also take a visit to the vineyard not far from the entrance of the mountain. There are several paths to chose once you pick up a map of the mountain and plenty of parking on the mountain or the base. read more

Loveeeee it here!!! Great trails & great photo opt. It was the perfect day trip from DC

For a local spot you can't beat Sugarloaf. Easy to get to, lots of parking, beautiful scenery, and great trails. You can hike, rock climb, ride bikes, have a picnic...ect. Lots to do regardless of your age or experience with hiking and climbing. There are several ways to get to the top, you can take stairs or a longer hike around the side of the mountain. Whichever way you chose to get to the top you're met with an amazing view. You can see farmland, forest, and what I imagine would be Dickerson and/Damascus, maybe Frederick/Urbana. Great view. For the more adventurous there is a different peak to climb than the main one that everyone goes to. I believe it's called White Rocks. You drive down Mount Ephraim Road and you'll usually see cars parked on the side of the road, there's a small lot. In my opinion the view from White Rocks is slightly less appealing than the man "summit" but the hike is longer and more strenuous. If you pack a camebak, some snacks, and are in decent shape you can do both in one day. read more

Beautiful area to get in a day of hiking (moderate), enjoy a picnic, or check out the nearby sights. Definitely get a trail map beforehand, bring your camera if you can and lots of hydration/snacks. Some of the views are really wonderful and it's really worth the trip here if you're coming from the DC area. read more

I have been cooped up inside all winter and I was determined to get outside, despite it being 22 degrees. I have always wanted to try out Sugarloaf and thought that this was the perfect opportunity. The drive out to the mountain was really pretty and enjoyable. In the east parking lot, there is a great lookout and some picnic tables that is perfect for anyone who doesn't want to hike. There are a number of different trails to take, some shorter and others longer with more of a challenge. We ended up taking the blue trail, which only took a couple of hours. The trail definitely had some elevation, but the views are so worth it. Since it was pretty cold, the trails were not crowded at all. We did pass families, hiking groups, and dogs, so this park is definitely friendly for everyone. I really enjoyed hiking here and felt like I got a decent workout here. read more

Equip yourself with a hydration pack and go hiking! Nothing better than a hike in the summer under the shades. No need to fear encountering the Blair Witch or the smoke monster, as you will often be greeted by other hikers on the trails. There are a number of trails. For rookies like me, the white trail will get your heartbeat going without you wishing you never started on the trail. read more

its a lovely hike out here, and pretty close to perfection in the fall. The mountain is a bit of a shrimp, however, it is very prominent compared to the surrounding landscape, so you end up with a nice view after an easy hike. There are two trails to the peak, if you are traveling with someone a bit older or unsure, make sure you take the improved trail (the greed trail as of this writing) as the other trails to the top are a bit steep. At the entrance they warn you to keep you valuables hidden and doors locked, this is probably good advice as we had gas siphoned from our car as we were parked. I can't imagine this is a terribly common experience, but just don't think you're in the clear just because you're in the boonies. read more

Sugarloaf Mountain, located about halfway between Gaithersburg and Frederick not too far from I-270, is privately owned and operated by a non-profit corporation. It has been designated as a Registered Natural Landmark. There is no entrance fee. It's a great place for a hike, picnic or even rock climbing. However, after reading on their website that the area is the natural habitat of both the timber rattlesnake and the copperhead, I'm not so keen on returning here. It is a lovely place, though, and if you're not scared of snakes like I am, I'd recommend checking it out. And if you like to enjoy alcoholic beverages after your hike, you can stop by the Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard which is conveniently located not too far from the mountain's exit. read more

I came here with Soccerballgirl's Brownie Troop - about sixty 8 year olds running wild up and down the mountain. Woe betide those romantic couples who had come here for a quiet walk in the woods ! It's a marvellous place - only about a 30 minute mild hike from the parkng lot to the top, so you can do it with your old-folks, and the view from the top is amazing - you see right to the edge of the Appalachians / Blue Ridge. Do not forget to call into the Vineyard for a drink on your way home ! read more

Not recommended for hiking. But a pretty, albeit crowded drive around the mountain. Parking and signage could have been a lot better. This felt a lot like visiting a North Carolina tourist driving hike destination, in other words, great if you do not want to get out of your car, kind of traffic-y and of questionable safety if you try hiking on the roads. The best part was the scenic drive through horse farms on the way to the mountain. If you are hell bent on actually hiking, drive through the east entrance area on the little road and park at the west end lot with the port a pottie and the map. Then hike back to the east entrance and use the trail. If there is actually parking at the east entrance, by all means, park there. People had dogs off leash, and drivers were a bit too Maryland-y fast on the mountain. Keep all of this in mind and consider actually hiking over at the Little Bennett Regional Park. read more

I love driving to this place. Every single view is breath takingly beautiful. The significance of this place dated in the 1700's. Some historic sites here are still preserved and protected. An awesome place to go hiking or rock climbing. read more

Sugarloaf Mountain - Gender neutral toilet. - Hiking Near Me - Dickerson, Maryland

I can only mirror Dee B.'s post. its a great getaway the snakes aren't that big of a problem - you'll find more of them closer to the waterous areas. great views especially in the spring and fall. great hiking and climbing.. some cool places to do some bouldering. i'm not sure if they used to let motorcycle up the mountain (as i used to rde up there) or if i just missed the sign but you can't take your bikes up there anymore (not sure why) they've got some nice vineyards close by. They host tastings every so often. Don't get stuck in the 270 traffic!!! don't come here to take a look and leave, you've got to find things to do while here... picnic, hike bike, photogrpahy or just unwind and enjoy the fresh air. read more

We visited Sugarloaf Mountain with six people, and this is one of our favorite trails thus far in the Maryland/DC area. The number of various trails allow for an extensive walk for those of you who like to be in the woods all day. The Orange trail at the very start was very challenging. The reward at the top of the mountain, however, made it all worth the exhausting. An awesome view, coupling with the fact that my body looked like I'd been doing the Stair Master for a week left me inspired to return again! The trails intersect so that you may create your own adventure (if you have a map), Because of that, you can custom the distance you'd like to pursue, ranging from short to quite long distances. I believe we were able to pull our maps up on smart phones, which made us feel a lot more secure as we ventured on into the woods. The views are beautiful and the majority of the trails are more hilly than anything, so this is a great place to be active with friends and have enough breath to catch up on the great things in each others' lives. We walked so long that we rewarded ourselves with what we considered a delicious Sunday brunch nearby at the Comus Inn. There is also a nearby winery if you want to make a day out of your trip. The one thing I wish I'd known before my arrival is that the parking is up the mountain. We were expecting a lot and a visitors center and had to "risk it" by exploring up a paved path into the trees. read more

As nature goes in this part of Maryland, this is pretty good! Not exactly the place to go for solitude or astonishing views, but I think it's probably the best in Montgomery County. Nice views of farmland and the river from the top. It's about 1200 feet tall, and probably the longest trail is 5 miles long. Some people were doing some rock climbing on the boulders at the top of the green trail, all tied in with top ropes. We went on the Friday after thanksgiving, and it was suuuuuuper packed. We had to drive around for 20 minutes to find parking. read more

Such a great, great place! Really. From Washington, D.C about a 45 minute drive (possibly more or less depending on traffic,etc). It's really helpful for the times you want to get away. The scenery, the views...all spectacular. Tip: Don't go on public holidays unless you want to share with the crowds. read more

First hike of the year took place here yesterday and I don't regret picking this hike. It's been almost 7years since I've hiked here and coming back was the best decision I could've made. We decided to park on the East View Parking even though we started our hike on the West View parking- the Blue Trail. Both parking lots are walking distance, so if you choose a lot and it's full the next one isn't too far off. The blue trail is pretty challenging but we were able to finish it within 2 1/2 hours, which in my book is excellent! It's about a 7mile hike with challenging rocky routes, that was my favorite part! The only confusion most people might encounter on the blue trail is that after you get to enjoy White Rocks, and continue on the trail towards the end you end up on a road for a millisecond. Although the that second night confused some people, because you have to pass a mini lot and stick to your left. You'll see the markers, this marker will say "towards west view parking" that's where you will want to continue. We encountered a gentleman on his own who came out of the yellow trail (I believe this is more difficult than the blue), trying to figure out where on the road will lead him to the connecting yellow trail. So it's very important you grab a map that's provided at the parking lots. It doesn't take a brainiac to figure it out but even I had a moment of concern. One thing I advise everyone now that the season is getting warmer, is to go early! My boyfriend unfortunately overslept and we didn't arrive there until noon (also if you finish early, you can beat traffic), the sun was out and it's probably the reason it took us a bit longer to finish. If you go early, you get the morning breeze and beat the scorching sun. Regardless it was a nice day out and it wasn't busy on the trails, so going hiking on a weekday is definitely a plus. There also happens to be a winery "Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard" about a mile from there. That would be a nice treat, super cute place. read more

Sugarloaf Mountain - White Rocks - Hiking Near Me - Dickerson, Maryland

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Really a great spot for all levels. Personally, I fall under that: So like hiking... that's a thing. It has been a very long time since I have done it and I was a bit worried about my endurance level so I took the white trail which is about 2.5 miles. Not too shabby. It was a great hike. Lots of people were on the trail families with small kids, groups, couples of all ages etc it was nice company. Some nice spots to rest and a lot of markers around that was helpful and easy to follow since there are many trails some of which intersect and merge for a bit. iParking wasn't too bad when I got there at 10AM, but by the time I was leaving it llooked packed. If you don't mind that then come anytime otherwise, it opens as early as 8 and you can get a good spot. I wouldn't mind doing it again before it gets too cold. read more

Only 45 minutes away from DC, free parking, a variety of trail lengths, and a pretty view - not too shabby! Given all those characteristics, it's no wonder that this is a popular, and somewhat crowded hike. This isn't a super challenging hike, but it's still a satisfying way to spend an afternoon. The loop that we took was just under 7 miles, but there are a number of options. Most of the trail was well-marked, but there were a few iffy points where we wandered for a while before finding our way back to the trail. All in all, this is a great (and conveniently located) park. I'm looking forward to trying out some of the other loops! read more

Sugarloaf Mountain is not a national/state park--the mountain and trails are maintained by Stronghold, Inc. a non-profit setup by Louise and Gordon Strong in 1946 to preserve the mountain so it could be enjoyed by everyone. As such, Sugarloaf Mountain is free to enter/park, but they do have a donation box at the entrance. Observations: -The orange trail is the most fun; it is steep and rocky and gets you to the summit in a quarter mile. -In general, the trails are very well-marked and maintained. -This is an extremely popular hike, especially with families, so get ready for crowds on nice days. -I was not too impressed with the views, but the location is convenient to the Maryland suburbs of DC. -Dog-friendly -Abundant wildlife--especially deer -Wild blueberries all over in the springtime!! -This is a very easy hike, so it's good for older adults, young children, and anyone who wants a nice easy introduction to hiking. read more

Best little 'mountain' hike in the area. Lesser known fact: sugarloaf is a monadnock. Look it up. It's cool. Climb around the top. There are lots of cool caves and crannies to explore and duck into. read more

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The trail maps are WILDLY inaccurate. The blue trail, which is is supposed to be 5 miles, is actually 8! There are tons of rocks on the trail so beware if your ankles roll easily. The views are beautiful, but it's not worth how badly my feet hurt from walking on jagged rocks (not to mention walking three miles more than I had anticipated!) read more

Sugarloaf Mountain - The blue trail is definitely NOT 5 miles. It is much, much longer. - Hiking Near Me - Dickerson, Maryland

I love coming here to take in the nice views and get some good exercise. I usually take some version of the blue trail with my dog, which takes you through the the woods and has some great views at the top. The trails are kept up nicely but there are some tricky parts and some steep stairs on one downhill portion of the trail. Overall I would say it's min-mod challenge (on the blue trail), but I know there are other trails that may be easier or more difficult. I enjoy coming here to get away from the city and enjoy the outdoors. read more

Sugarloaf Mountain - Taking in the sights at sugarloaf - Hiking Near Me - Dickerson, Maryland