Sugarloaf is best known as one of the largest ski resorts in the East, but in summer its 4,237-foot summit becomes a worthy hiking destination. As Maine's second-highest peak (after Katahdin), Sugarloaf offers serious elevation gain, varied terrain, and summit views that stretch across the western Maine mountains.
The mountain's cone shape and ski-cleared slopes make it visually dramatic from every angle. For hikers, the challenge is real—you'll gain over 2,000 feet on most routes, much of it steep and rugged. But the reward is standing atop one of Maine's premier peaks.
Trail Options
Sugarloaf via Appalachian Trail
- Distance: 10.0 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 3,300 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
The AT passes over Sugarloaf, approaching from Caribou Valley Road to the south. This is the longest route but offers the most wilderness experience, passing through beautiful spruce-fir forest before the final steep climb to the summit.
Via Ski Area (Timberline Trail)
- Distance: 4.0 miles round trip
- Elevation Gain: 2,100 feet
- Difficulty: Strenuous
The most direct route starts at the ski area base and climbs via service roads and trails to the summit. It's shorter than the AT route but steeper, and you'll share the mountain with summer resort activities.
Combining with Spaulding Mountain
- Distance: 11.0+ miles
For peak-baggers, Sugarloaf can be combined with nearby Spaulding Mountain (4,010 ft), another Maine 4,000-footer. The AT connects the two, making for a long but efficient day.
The Summit Experience
Sugarloaf's summit is partially developed due to the ski area—there's a summit snowcat used for winter operations and various ski-related infrastructure. But the views more than compensate:
- North: The Bigelow Range dominates the horizon
- East: Saddleback and the Rangeley Mountains
- Southeast: On exceptionally clear days, Katahdin is visible
- West: Distant peaks in New Hampshire and Vermont
The actual summit is a short walk from the ski infrastructure, with open rock and alpine vegetation. It's a true above-treeline experience despite the nearby development.
Summer at the Ski Resort
Sugarloaf operates in summer as a resort destination, which affects the hiking experience:
- Access: The resort welcomes hikers and provides parking
- Facilities: Restaurants, restrooms, and services available at the base
- Activities: Mountain biking, golf, scenic lift rides on some days
Check with the resort before your visit—some trails may be affected by mountain biking or other activities, and the scenic gondola occasionally runs for sightseers.
Starting from the ski area means beginning at higher elevation, which shortens the hike but means sharing the mountain with resort visitors on the lower sections.
Trail Conditions
Sugarloaf's trails present typical Maine challenges:
- Steep grades: Expect consistently uphill hiking with minimal flat sections
- Rocks and roots: Standard Maine trail terrain requiring attention to footing
- Wet sections: Higher elevations retain moisture; mud is common
- Above treeline: The summit area is exposed to weather
Best Times to Hike
- June: Trails may still be wet; blackflies can be intense
- July-August: Best conditions; alpine areas are beautiful
- September-October: Excellent hiking; fall colors spectacular
- Winter: The ski area operates; winter hiking on the AT requires experience
Practical Information
Getting There
- Ski Area: Follow signs to Sugarloaf from Route 27 in Carrabassett Valley. Park at the base lodge area.
- AT Access: Caribou Valley Road (sometimes rough) leads to the southern trailhead.
What to Bring
- Plenty of water—no reliable sources on most routes
- Layers for the exposed summit
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Map (trails can be confusing near ski area)
Nearby Peaks
The Carrabassett Valley offers several other worthy hikes:
- Spaulding Mountain (4,010 ft)—on the AT, often combined with Sugarloaf
- Crocker Mountain—two peaks, both over 4,000 feet
- Bigelow Range—visible to the north, an excellent multi-day destination
Quick Reference
| Route | Distance | Gain | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Via AT | 10.0 mi | 3,300 ft | Wilderness route |
| Via Ski Area | 4.0 mi | 2,100 ft | Shorter, steeper |
Sugarloaf Mountain may be better known for skiing, but its summer hiking is world-class. Climbing Maine's second-highest peak delivers a genuine mountain experience—steep trails, alpine scenery, and views that remind you why these western Maine peaks deserve more attention. Whether you approach via the AT or take the direct route from the ski area, Sugarloaf rewards with one of the state's great summits.
