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Sugarloaf

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The scenic trails at Sugarloaf have steep hills for intermediate and advanced cross-country skiing and offer a chance to see a variety of wildlife. Permit required.
Trail Activity
Hiking Cross-country skiing
Length
4.7 miles, Network
Difficulty
Moderate
Town
Guilford
Surface
Packed Earth/Dirt
Pets
Not Permitted
Fees
Yes

Description

In order to hike these trails, a permit from the Regional Water Authority (RWA) is required.

This scenic recreation area got its name many years ago because its two rounded hills resembled mounded loaves of brown sugar. 

The white square Owl Trail has many old rotting tree trunks which are homes for many small forest animals such as screech owls and chipmunks. 

The red circle Sherwood Forest Trail has sugar maples that provide such a dense cover during the summer permitting little under-story. There is a long, steep climb on this trail as it ascends the west side of Sugarloaf.

The yellow circle Raven’s Trail is a short, steep trail that climbs over the top of the east Sugarloaf and provides a shortcut on the east leg of the Owl Trail.

The orange triangle Tangled Web Trail is named for the overgrown tangle of grape vines, briars, and berries growing over a section of the west Sugarloaf hill. It is an especially good place for bird watching.

The orange with red Merlin’s Trail is a short trail that connects the Sherwood Forest Trail to the Tangled Web Trail.

Read more at the South Central Regional Council of Governments (SCRCOG) website.  

Other Information

Attention: Permit required for accessing the property

A permit can be acquired through the RWA recreation website

Rules

  • This site is for passive use only.
  • No mechanized vehicles.
  • Hiking and cross-country skiing only.
  • Dogs are not permitted.

Review the RWA Rules and Regulations for the complete list of park rules. 

Trail Manager

South Central Connecticut Regional Water Authority
90 Sargent Drive
New Haven, CT 06511
203-401-2654
https://www.rwater.com/in-the-community/recreation

Trail Tips

Be Considerate of Other Visitors
Be aware of and limit the noise you and your group generate. Enjoy the sounds of nature.

Trailhead Information

Trail Access

Sugarloaf’s gated entrance and parking area is located on West Street. Take Foxon Road/North Branford Road (Route 80) to County Road (West Street) near the North Branford town line to the left fork to West Street.

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