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.
A permit can be acquired through the RWA recreation website.
Review the RWA Rules and Regulations for the complete list of park rules.
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.
A permit is required before using trails. Please read the detailed trail post for more information.
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