Sugarloaf

Lost in the vastness of the San Bernardino Mountains, Sugarloaf Mountain stands tall. It’s a prominent peak, reaching a height of 9,952 feet. This makes it the highest point in the Big Bear Valley. Sugarloaf Mountain offers a unique allure, a blend of challenge and tranquility. Unlike its more popular counterparts, Sugarloaf Mountain often sees fewer crowds. This provides hikers with a sense of solitude amidst nature’s grandeur. The Sugarloaf Mountain Trail begins a mile or so from the paved road. It starts up a rocky Forest Service road. Hikers often park just off Route 38 at the start of Forest Service Road 2N93 and walk up to the trailhead. This walk adds a touch of adventure to the journey, preparing hikers for the climb ahead. While the summit itself doesn’t have a dedicated viewpoint, the journey offers breathtaking panoramas. These include views of the San Bernardino high peaks, a visual feast for nature enthusiasts. The trail meanders through an old-growth forest, a testament to the area’s rich natural history. Interestingly, once you leave the Forest Service Road, you step onto the Sugarloaf National Recreation Trail (NRT). These NRT trails are a part of the National Trails System Act of 1968, the same act that established the Pacific Crest Trail and the Appalachian Trail. Sugarloaf Mountain also holds a unique piece of history. Wildhorse Meadow, near the trail, earned its name after World War I. The US Cavalry, recognizing the changing dynamics of warfare, released their horses into the meadow southeast of Sugarloaf Mountain. These horses, once instruments of war, found a peaceful sanctuary in this serene valley. Today, Sugarloaf Mountain remains a hidden gem in the San Bernardino Mountains. It beckons hikers with its challenging trails and breathtaking views.