Mount Sugarloaf State Reservation facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mount Sugarloaf State Reservation |
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![]() East southeast view from South Sugarloaf observation tower
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Location | Deerfield, Franklin, Massachusetts, United States |
Area | 533 acres (216 ha) |
Elevation | 643 ft (196 m) |
Established | Unspecified |
Operator | Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation |
Website | Mount Sugarloaf State Reservation |
Mount Sugarloaf State Reservation is a really cool public park in South Deerfield, Massachusetts. It is managed by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation. This park is located right next to the Connecticut River.
The park includes the tops of two mountains: North Sugarloaf Mountain and South Sugarloaf Mountain. It also has almost two miles of land along the Connecticut River. Plus, there are two islands in the river that are part of the park! Mount Sugarloaf is also part of a bigger park area called the Connecticut River Greenway State Park. Some parts of the park near the river are even used by the University of Massachusetts Amherst for farming research.
What Can You Do at Mount Sugarloaf?
Mount Sugarloaf State Reservation offers many fun things to do. It's a great place to visit if you love being outdoors. The park is open for visitors to enjoy hiking, having picnics, and seeing amazing views.
Exploring the Mountains
You can drive your car up to the top of South Sugarloaf Mountain. There is a special road just for cars. At the summit, you will find an observation tower. This tower gives you incredible views of the area around you. The road and tower are usually open from late spring until the leaves change color in the fall.
To get to the park, you can use Route 116. There are places to park your car both at the bottom of the mountain and at the very top. There is a small fee to park.
Hiking Trails
If you like to walk or hike, Mount Sugarloaf has trails for you. One of the trails is part of the longer, 20-mile Pocumtuck Ridge Trail. This means you can explore different parts of the mountain on foot.
River Fun
The park also has land along the Connecticut River. If you enjoy water activities, you can go canoeing or kayaking. You can even camp overnight on the islands in the river. This is a special way to experience the park and the river.