Sugarloaf Mountain, MD (Rating: B)

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, [https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf ](https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf)and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike.

8 miles, about 1500 feet elevation gain.

Sugarloaf Mountain is the prominence visible in the piedmont as it rises out of the plains southeast of Frederick MD. The mountain has many wonderful hiking trails that can be combined to create various different loops. The hike we have here is an 8 mile variation of the Northern Peaks Trail loop with some nice views from the summit as well as White Rocks overlook, where we will stop for lunch.

Enter Sugarloaf Mountain through the main gates. Park at the West View parking area, which is about 3/4 of the way up Sugarloaf Mountain.
NOTE: You will pass all the way through the East View parking lot on the way to West View. We will meet at 9:00 am at the covered picnic table area and start the hike on the Green Trail which is a climb up to the summit.
There are porta-johns available at the parking area.
Please try to arrive 15 minutes early so we can get everyone signed in and start the hike on time at 9:00am.

The pace will be about 2.5 mph, slower uphill.

Bring:
At least 2 liters of water/hydration, also lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes since there are a number of rocky areas and tree roots and probably a lot of leaf cover. Recommend bringing insect repellent and sunscreen. There are no stream crossings.
Also, be prepared for a steep rocky downhill section when we descend from the summit on the Orange trail. If you normally use hiking poles, they may be helpful in this section.

CARPOOLING:
For those who are looking to carpool, meet at main picnic area at Carderock Recreation Area and plan to leave there by 8:15am to arrive at the trailhead in time to get signed in and start hiking at 9am. The hike leader will be at the carpool location. Carderock Recreation Area GPS
38.97122, -77.19874
The parking lot is on the first left after passing under the tunnel.

Neither the Club nor the hike leader is responsible for coordinating transportation to/from the trailhead. Hikers are not guaranteed to get a ride to the trailhead from the carpool location. Carpooling is organized by the participants and they participate at their own risk. Suggested carpool fee: $4.00 per rider. Driving time from Carderock to Sugarloaf Mtn 35-40 minutes.

NOTE: The times listed for the hike include starting and finishing at Carderock Recreation Area. If you are going directly to the trailhead at Sugarloaf Mountain the times will be 9:00am-1pm.

You must be experienced in hikes of this distance and elevation gain. Any questions, please contact me.

Sugarloaf Mountain Trail map: https://sugarloafmd.com/trail-maps/

Sugarloaf Website: https://sugarloafmd.com/

Dogs are welcome on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy

Park Fees: No fees, however Stronghold requests a voluntary $5 donation from visitors to assist in maintenance of Sugarloaf.

Also, be prepared for a steep rocky downhill section when we descend from the summit on the Orange trail. If you normally use hiking poles, they may be helpful in this section.

Directions to Sugarloaf: https://sugarloafmd.com/directions/

Remember to drive all the way through the East View Parking Lot and continue on to the West View Parking where the hike will begin.

For those who have not hiked with me before please forward your full name, cell phone number, and emergency contact number. You can text it to me or send on Meetup Message.

Meeting Place Instructions: The hike will begin at the Sugarloaf West View parking lot GPS coordinates 39.26195, -77.39627

Any questions please message me here or text/call me at 202-528-0456. If you text me, please include your name.

Post-hike rehydration at Sugarloaf Mountain Vineyard.