Sugarloaf Mt, Stratford NH


• 4-star hike
• 4 mile out-and-back
• Moderate | Gain 2,160 feet
• Stratford, NH | Great North Woods
.
Panoramic view from a rocky mountain outcrop overlooking forested hills and valleys under a bright sky with scattered cumulus clouds. In the foreground, a rusted cast-iron stove sits atop the rock surface, partially surrounded by low vegetation and evergreen trees such as spruce or fir. The distant landscape stretches across layered ridges, suggesting high elevation and remote wilderness.
At least you didn't have to climb Sugarloaf carrying a cast iron stove.

Many mountains are named Sugarloaf, and New Hampshire has six of them. But at 3,702 feet, this one is the tallest of the bunch. Located in Nash Stream Forest, north of the White Mountains, this particular peak is celebrated for its stunning, five-star views and is one of only two Sugarloafs to be honored on the prestigious 52-With-a-View list.

To earn these incredible vistas, you'll face a steep and steady 2,160-foot climb on what we'd describe as a 3-star trail. The route maintains an unrelenting 20% grade, making for a tough, consistent trek. You may find yourself entering a state of zen with the forest, or perhaps wondering if you've entered a sort of woodland purgatory. Either way, the payoff is worth the effort. The summit delivers a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding wilderness, the rugged Percy Peaks, and endless ridgelines stretching to the horizon.
⬤ 4★ Sugarloaf Mt Trail   4.1 mi out & back, moderate, gain 2,160 ft
GPX File · AllTrails · Directions GPX?
 P  Free parking (approach from the south).

You'll know you're almost at the summit when the trail begins to level out. We had several encounters with downed trees blocking our path near the top, but well-worn diversionary routes kept us on track. There are two granite-capped viewpoints that collectively provide a virtual panorama of delightful scenery. Someone has also chosen to crown the summit with a vintage cast-iron stove, recovered from a fire warden's hut that once rested on the summit, and burned down in 1982.

A shallow, clear stream flows gently over smooth rocks and boulders through a densely forested area. The water reflects patches of blue sky and scattered clouds above. Both banks are lined with lush green foliage from trees and shrubs, creating a vibrant, enclosed natural corridor. The scene conveys a sense of tranquility and untouched wilderness, with soft light filtering through the canopy and highlighting the textures of stone, water, and leaves.
Nash Stream, by the trailhead.

The start of the Sugarloaf Mountain Trail is located on Nash Stream Road, just north of a creek bridge. You'll need to approach the trailhead from the south, and take note that any navigation apps that tell you otherwise are incorrect. Expect seven miles of unpaved road to reach the location. We traveled the road in late summer and found it to be a breeze to drive on, though your experience may vary at other times of year.

Do also make time for a wayside visit to Pond Brook Falls - an impressively long, cascading waterfall that flows throughout the year. Invisible from the road and unsigned, be sure to check out our article linked in the 'Trailspotting Nearby' section below, which will help you locate it.

 MAP PACK  Great North Woods  The region's trails on one free map
 MAP PACK  52-With-A-View  Most scenic peaks in a single download
A dirt trail winds through a dense forest of tall coniferous trees with slender trunks and sparse branches. The forest floor is carpeted with ferns, mosses, and low vegetation, creating a lush green underlayer. Sunlight filters through the canopy, casting dappled light across the path and illuminating patches of foliage. The trail curves gently into the distance, inviting exploration and evoking a sense of peace and solitude in a natural woodland setting.
The consistent view between the trailhead and summit.

A person stands on a rocky outcrop overlooking a vast forested landscape with distant mountain ranges under a partly cloudy sky. They wear a red shirt, black pants, and a black cap, and carry a backpack, suggesting they are hiking or exploring. Sunlight filters through the clouds, casting soft shadows and illuminating patches of terrain below.
Looking south towards the Presidentials.

Scenic mountain view featuring a dense forest of evergreen trees covering the slopes. In the foreground, large rock formations and a mix of green and slightly yellowing trees suggest the onset of autumn. The background reveals a series of rolling mountain ranges fading into the distance beneath a partly cloudy sky filled with cumulus clouds. Sunlight filters through the cloud cover, casting soft highlights and shadows across the terrain.
From here we see many more peaks to conquer!

levated view of a forested mountain landscape with multiple ridges and peaks extending into the distance. In the foreground, green coniferous branches—likely pine or fir—partially frame the scene. The central peak is rounded and densely wooded, with patches of exposed rock near its summit. Behind it, layers of blue-toned mountains fade gradually into the horizon, creating a sense of depth and atmospheric perspective. The sky above is scattered with textured clouds, and soft sunlight filters through, casting gentle highlights and shadows across the terrain.
A mountain for another day. Percy Peaks to the South.

Tangents:
• Trailspotting 3D: Sugarloaf Stove, More Locations
• Peakbagger: List of Sugarloaf Mountains
• AllTrails Public: Sugarloaf Mountain


Magalloway Mountain View
Best Trails NH: Great North Woods
Explore the remote wonders of New Hampshire's northern expanse.
New Hampshire 52 With A View
NH 52 With A View
Routes to the supreme 52 New Hampshire peak views.

Trailspotting is non-commercial and ad-free.
Content provided without warranty of accuracy. Copyright © 2026 Stuart Green all rights reserved. About Trailspotting.com