Sugarloaf Mountain
4,237 ft | 2 trails | Maine
4,237 ft
2 routes
Hard
NH 4000-Footer
About Sugarloaf Mountain
At 4,237 feet, Sugarloaf Mountain ranks among New Hampshire's celebrated 4000-Footers—a collection of 48 peaks that challenge and inspire hikers throughout the Northeast. This hard summit offers a quintessential White Mountain experience.
Popular Routes
The most popular route, **Appalachian Trail (from Caribou Valley Rd)**, covers 10.4 miles and is rated Hard. AT approach passing Sugarloaf summit spur.
Peak Bagging
**Extend Your Adventure:** Spaulding Mountain lies just 1.2 miles away, making it an excellent addition for ambitious hikers looking to bag multiple summits.
Community Reviews
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Check Current Conditions
Trail conditions change frequently. Check recent reports on AllTrails or NE Trail Conditions before your hike.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to hike Sugarloaf Mountain?
Most routes on Sugarloaf Mountain take 5-7 hours round trip. The most popular trail is 10.4 miles with Hard difficulty. Start early, especially on weekends when parking fills quickly.
Is Sugarloaf Mountain hard to hike?
Sugarloaf Mountain is rated Hard. At 4,237 feet, expect challenging terrain above treeline with potential for rapid weather changes. Proper footwear and preparation are essential.
Do I need a permit to hike Sugarloaf Mountain?
No hiking permit is required for Sugarloaf Mountain. However, parking fees may apply at trailheads (typically $3-5/day for WMNF or state parks). A WMNF parking pass covers most White Mountain trailheads.
What is the best trail to hike Sugarloaf Mountain?
The most popular route is the Appalachian Trail (from Caribou Valley Rd), offering AT approach passing Sugarloaf summit spur..
When is the best time to hike Sugarloaf Mountain?
The best hiking season for Sugarloaf Mountain is late May through October. Summer and fall offer the best conditions, though expect crowds on weekends. Winter hiking requires specialized gear and experience.
Best Time to Visit
spring
March - May
Muddy trails, snow above 3000ft until May
summer
June - August
Best weather, occasional afternoon thunderstorms
fall
September - November
Peak foliage late Sept, early snow possible in October
winter
December - February
Full winter conditions, extreme cold and wind above treeline
Winter Gear Checklist
- Snowshoes/crampons
- Insulated boots
- Balaclava
- Hand/toe warmers
- Emergency bivy
Tip: Winter hiking requires specialized skills and gear. Never hike alone. Check avalanche conditions for steeper terrain.
Safety Information
Current Hazards
- ⚠️ ALPINE ZONE: Weather changes rapidly. Turn back if conditions deteriorate.
- Winter conditions in effect - full mountaineering gear required
- Hypothermia risk - temperatures 20-40°F colder at summit
- Short daylight hours - carry headlamp
- Trail markers may be buried under snow
Turn-Around Time
2:00 PM recommended for summit
Plan to reach the summit by this time to allow safe descent before dark.
Essential Gear Checklist
* Critical items - do not hike without these
Emergency Contacts
Nearby Peaks
Explore other mountains near Sugarloaf Mountain. Great for peak-bagging or planning your next adventure.
Spaulding Mountain
4,010 ft
Crocker Mountain
4,228 ft
South Crocker Mountain
4,048 ft
Mount Abraham
4,049 ft
Peak Bagging Tip
Spaulding Mountain is only 1.2 miles away. Consider combining these peaks for a bigger day or overnight trip!