The South Sugarloaf Trail located near South Deerfield, Massachusetts boasts views of the Connecticut River, Pioneer Valley and Pelham and Berkshire. About an hour and 45 minute drive from Boston, this hike can certainly be completed in less than a day. In fact, it’s a great hike that offers great rewards for humble efforts.
We recently started this hike on a rainy day, however we were lucky that it stopped raining after only about 10 minutes. Parking at the trailhead is free. This is link for the start of the trail. This is a great short hike that isn’t too stressful, making it a great place to start for beginners, hiking with kids, family or anyone looking for a quick workout. fast. It’s a bit steep in patches but nothing too top makes it relatively easy. It took us about 30 minutes to get to the top.
The trail is marked with blue markers making it a well-guided trail to get to the top. This is a dog-friendly trail for everyone who wants to go hiking with your dogs as well as friendly cyclists. As you get closer to the top, there is a section that leads you to the path but don’t think you are on the wrong path because if you stay on the path and follow the blue lines it will take you to the top.
The best part about this trail is that you don’t have to walk long distances to get to it. You can simply drive from the base of Sugarloaf Mountain to the top if you don’t want to go hiking, or with young children, or just want to have a picnic with friends and family but still want the sweeping views. . If you decide to drive to the top, you will have to pay an entrance fee of $5 for Massachusetts Residents and $20 for Non-Massachusetts Residents.
At the top of the mountain there are various picnic tables to enjoy a picnic with your family or friends and also barbecues are available. A great place to spend a summer day or the start of fall to soak up the breathtaking views and fresh air.
There is a 3-story observatory at the top of the mountain that offers 360-degree views by climbing the spiral stairs. The observatory offers miles of natural beauty that spreads below you. However, if you don’t want to climb the tower, there are plenty of views out to the edge to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
All in all, a great short trail to explore with breathtaking views. Highly recommend it!
