1. Overview of Sugarloaf Mountain
2. Map and Directions
3. Driving Directions
4. Scenic Views
5. Hiking Trails
6. Flora and Fauna
7. Stronghold Mansion
8. Sugarloaf Mountain Winery
Sugarloaf Mountain is a small mountain featuring stunning scenery in Frederick County, Maryland, located just north of the Montgomery County line. The mountain is privately owned by Stronghold, Incorporated, a non-profit corporation, and is accessible to the public for various outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and picnicking. With an elevation of 1,282 feet and a vertical height of 800 feet above the nearby farmland, visitors can enjoy picturesque views along with diverse plants and wildlife. Four well-marked hiking trails are offered: 1.5-mile, 2.5-mile, 5-mile, and 7-mile loops.
Map and Directions
Sugarloaf Mountain is situated in Dickerson, MD, south of Frederick and north of Poolesville and Germantown. The mountain is approximately 43 miles northwest of Washington DC, making it about an hour’s drive from the city.
Driving Directions
- From I-270: Take the Hyattstown exit, follow Route 109 to Comus, and turn right on Comus Road to reach the entrance to Sugarloaf Mountain.
- From MD-28: Travel west to Dickerson. After passing under the railroad bridge, turn right onto Mt. Ephraim Road and continue for 2.5 miles to the Sugarloaf Mountain entrance.
Sugarloaf Mountain Views
Sugarloaf Mountain is renowned for its breathtaking views of the surrounding Maryland farmland. The peak of the mountain can be seen from many areas in Montgomery and Frederick Counties, and it was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1969.
View From Sugarloaf Mountain Overlook
From the Sugarloaf Mountain Overlook, visitors can capture stunning views of distant farmland. The viewpoints are conveniently accessible as the summit area trails from the parking lots are just a quarter-mile away.
Hiking Trails
Sugarloaf Mountain provides an excellent opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to explore nature trails. The following four well-marked hiking trails are available:
- Blue – Northern Peaks Trail – 5 miles
- Purple – Alternate Route to White Rocks – 1.5 miles
- White – Mountain Loop Trail – 2.5 miles
- Yellow – Saddleback Horse Trail – 7 miles
Flowers and Plants
Over 500 species of plants and wildflowers thrive in the grounds of Sugarloaf Mountain, contributing to its ecological richness and beauty.
Stronghold Mansion
The Stronghold Mansion at Sugarloaf Mountain is a historical landmark featuring formal gardens that are available for hosting weddings and social events. This mansion is conveniently located at 7901 Comus Road, Dickerson, Maryland, along the route to the hiking trails.
Sugarloaf Mountain Winery
Sugarloaf Mountain Winery is situated at the base of Sugarloaf Mountain, producing Bordeaux-style wines as well as single varietals. The winery welcomes visitors for tastings and offers live music during the weekends in the summer. It can be found at 18125 Comus Road, Dickerson, Maryland.
