Sugarloaf Northern Peaks + Summit Loop (MD)

Frederick County, Maryland, United States

8.0 miles (12.9 km) · 1,840 ft elevation gain · Loop · trail · Route

Sugarloaf Northern Peaks + Summit Loop (MD) is a 8.0-mile loop route in Frederick County, Maryland, United States, gaining 1,848 feet of elevation. The route follows a valley-shaped elevation profile. The terrain breaks into 5 distinct sections including 2 significant climbs. The longest climb covers 1.1 miles gaining 479 feet at an average 8.0% grade. About 47% of the terrain is runnable, with significant hiking sections. The route opens with mixed terrain and finishes with a climb.

Route facts

Distance	8.0 mi (12.9 km)
Elevation gain	1,840 ft (561 m)
Average gain	229 ft per mile (43 m per km)
Longest climb	3.2 mi, 436 ft of gain
Steepest climb grade	28.2%
Runnable	48% of the route
Climbs / descents	2 climbs, 2 descents
Profile shape	Down, then up
Difficulty score	11.6 of 100
Surface	trail
Route shape	Loop
Type	Route

Grade breakdown

Grade band	Share of route
Flat	12%
Mild uphill	12%
Moderate uphill	17%
Steep uphill	17%
Mild downhill	11%
Moderate downhill	12%
Steep downhill	19%

Questions about Sugarloaf Northern Peaks + Summit Loop (MD)

How much elevation gain does Sugarloaf Northern Peaks + Summit Loop (MD) have?

Sugarloaf Northern Peaks + Summit Loop (MD) has 1,840 ft (561 m) of elevation gain over 8.0 miles (12.9 km). That averages 229 ft of gain per mile.

How difficult is Sugarloaf Northern Peaks + Summit Loop (MD)?

The difficulty score for Sugarloaf Northern Peaks + Summit Loop (MD) is 11.6 of 100. That is harder than 75% of routes at a similar distance. About 48% of the route is runnable at typical trail effort; the rest is steep enough that most runners hike.

What is the longest climb on Sugarloaf Northern Peaks + Summit Loop (MD)?

The longest climb on Sugarloaf Northern Peaks + Summit Loop (MD) runs 3.2 miles (5.2 km) and gains 436 ft (133 m). The steepest climb grade on the route is 28.2%.