Sugarloaf Mountain Loop

Sugarloaf Mountain is one of the most popular hikes in the Marquette area. The easy hike quickly takes you up to clear views of Lake Superior and is perfect for a winter afternoon. Begin your hike at the trailhead off of Big Bay Road north of Marquette. There are two routes to the top - labeled easy and difficult. Both are easy, the difference is whether you prefer trails or stairs. The easy route is slightly quicker, taking you up a series of stairs rather than winding more slowly around the hill like the difficult route does. 

For winter hiking, the stairs actually prove the most difficult portion of the hike. Because the aren't cleared or maintained in the winter, they are covered in a thick layer of snow and ice forcing most people to skip them altogether and just walk next the stairs instead. Be especially careful of the stairs going back down as they can quickly turn into icy slides. 

There are several viewing platforms at the top giving 360 degree views of the surrounding area including Lake Superior on one side and the hilly Iron Country on the other.