How to Hike at Sugarloaf Mountain, Maryland

Sugarloaf Mountain is in the Sugarloaf Mountain Natural Reserve near Dickerson, Maryland, between Frederick, Maryland, and the greater Washington, D.C., metropolitan area. Typical for the region, the mountain is characterized by rugged terrain that consists principally of quartzite rock, which was exposed during millions of years of erosion. Although it is a private estate, the area is open to the public and is designated as a Registered Natural Landmark. Picnic areas, hiking and biking trails, and rock climbing routes have been developed throughout the reserve. On any given summer afternoon, hikers can be found scattered about the reserve's miles of trails.

Things You'll Need

  • Sturdy shoes Water bottle Trail map
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Instructions

    • 1

      Visit Sugarloaf Mountain Natural Reserve during its open hours from 8 a.m. until one hour before sunset. Arrive early on summer weekends, as parking is limited and the reserve is a popular tourist destination. Obtain a trail map at the entrance to the reserve.

    • 2

      Choose a the trail you will hike. The Northern Peaks Trail, or Blue Trail, covers five miles of terrain and passes White Rocks, a popular scenic point. The Purple Trail is a shorter route to White Rocks, covering only 1.5 miles. The Mountain Loop Trail, or White Trail, loops around just below the summit in 1.5 miles. Saddleback Horse Trail, or the Yellow Trail, makes a 7-mile loop around the base of the mountain. The Green, Red and Orange trails follow different routes that all lead up to the summit. All of the trails intersect with one another in several locations, so combining multiple hikes is not difficult.

    • 3

      Pay attention the the surroundings as you hike. Look for red and white oaks, tulip poplars, mountain laurel, and more than 500 other species of plants. Try to spot wildlife. The park is home to white-tailed deer, flying squirrels, great horned owls, wild turkey and much more. Tread carefully as you hike. Copperhead snakes and timber rattlesnakes also make their homes around Sugarloaf Mountain. These snakes are poisonous but will not bother you if you keep your distance.