The best walks and hikes in Sugarloaf Provincial Park
5.0
(8)
43
hikers
5
hikes
Hiking in Sugarloaf Provincial Park offers diverse trails within New Brunswick's Appalachian Mountain region. The park is characterized by its central feature, Sugarloaf Mountain, an extinct volcano rising 1,000 feet (305 meters) above sea level. The landscape includes extensive forested areas, two lakes (Prichard Lake and Smith Lake), and portions of the Restigouche River watershed. These features provide varied terrain for outdoor activities.
Best hiking trails in Sugarloaf Provincial Park
- The most popular hiking route is Sugarloaf Mountain – Terry Fox Trail loop from Atholville, a 3.5 miles (5.7 km) trail that takes 1 hour 49 minutes to complete. This route combines the ascent to Sugarloaf Mountain with a loop around its base.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Sugarloaf Mountain loop from Atholville, an easy 3.2 miles (5.1 km) path. This trail circles the base of Sugarloaf Mountain, providing access to its summit trails.
- Local hikers also love the Prichard Lake loop from Sugarloaf Provincial Park, a 3.9 miles (6.3 km) trail leading through forested areas around Prichard Lake, often completed in about 1 hour 42 minutes.
- Hiking in Sugarloaf Provincial Park is defined by volcanic hills, dense woodlands, and tranquil lake paths. The network offers options for various ability levels, from easy loops to more challenging ascents.
- The routes in Sugarloaf Provincial Park are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from more than 5 reviews. More than 30 hikers have used komoot to explore Sugarloaf Provincial Park's varied terrain.
Last updated: August 16, 2026
5.0
(4)
25
hikers
5.70km
01:49
210m
210m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
13
hikers
5.13km
01:40
200m
200m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(1)
6
hikers
6.30km
01:42
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
16.4km
04:29
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8.58km
02:13
50m
50m
Hike the moderate 5.3-mile Restigouche Trail near Campbellton, offering river views, Sugarloaf Mountain vistas, and diverse terrain.
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Tips from the Community
Nestled between river and mountain, Campbellton is a great spot for an outdoor holiday, boasting Sugarloaf Park: hiking and biking in the summer, downhill skiing and cross-country skiing in the winter. The town offers restaurants, cafes, and accommodation options.
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Sugarloaf Mountain is a great place for walking, jogging, and running. From its summit, you have a beautiful view of the Restigouche River Valley and Campbellton. A hiking trail, open only outside of winter, allows you to climb its eastern slope.
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This family cemetery, overlooking the lake and peacefully set back from the path, preserves the memory of Erasmus Barnsley Price Prichard, Wales, who died between 1880 and 1890. His wife and children rest beside him. The site is particularly beautiful and peaceful in autumn!
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Prichard Lake, surrounded by a vast forest, is accessible via a trail that circles the lake. A picnic area is located at its western end, while a beach occupies the eastern side. This walk around the lake offers different vistas in each season, but autumn remains one of the most beautiful.
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A popular riverside path in Campbellton that follows the shoreline of the Restigouche River with mostly level terrain, making it suitable for walking, running, and cycling. The route offers open water views, steady breezes, and several benches along the way.
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A wide tidal river forming the border between New Brunswick and Québec, offering open views across to the hills of the Gaspé Peninsula. The waterfront path in Campbellton runs right along the shoreline, with level terrain and several swing benches where you can sit and take in the scenery.
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The trail offers beautiful views of Sugarloaf mountain and is named after Terry Fox, the Canadian athlete and cancer research advocate who attempted to run across Canada in 1980 after losing a leg to cancer. His “Marathon of Hope” remains one of the most iconic endurance efforts in the country, and trails bearing his name honour his legacy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Sugarloaf Provincial Park?
Sugarloaf Provincial Park offers a diverse network of trails, with over 25 km of hiking and biking paths. On komoot, you'll find 5 curated hiking routes, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty.
What are the best trails for beginners or families in Sugarloaf Provincial Park?
For an easier experience, consider the Prichard Lake loop from Sugarloaf Provincial Park, which is 6.3 km long with minimal elevation gain. The Sugarloaf Mountain – Terry Fox Trail loop from Atholville is also rated easy and offers a pleasant 5.7 km walk around the base of the mountain.
Are there any challenging hikes in Sugarloaf Provincial Park?
While most komoot routes are easy to moderate, the park's own Sugarloaf Mountain Trail is described as intense and difficult, involving a 195-meter climb over 0.9 km to the summit. For a longer, moderate challenge, the Loop around Prichard Lake – Campbellton covers over 16 km with a 247-meter elevation gain.
What kind of views can I expect on the trails?
The most iconic views are from the summit of Sugarloaf Mountain, an extinct volcano, offering panoramic vistas of Campbellton, the Restigouche River, Chaleur Bay, and Quebec's Gaspé Peninsula. Trails around Prichard Lake also provide magnificent lakeside scenery, while the White Pine trails offer views of Sugarloaf Mountain itself.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Sugarloaf Provincial Park?
Yes, many of the park's trails are loops. You can enjoy the Sugarloaf Mountain – Terry Fox Trail loop from Atholville (5.7 km) or the slightly shorter Sugarloaf Mountain loop from Atholville (5.1 km). For a longer option, consider the Loop around Prichard Lake – Campbellton.
What are the best times of year to go hiking in Sugarloaf Provincial Park?
Sugarloaf Provincial Park is an all-season destination. While hiking is popular in warmer months, the park's natural beauty, including its rich flora and fauna, makes it appealing throughout spring, summer, and fall. The perimeter road around Sugarloaf Mountain is even groomed for cross-country skiing in winter, suggesting year-round accessibility for outdoor activities.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Sugarloaf Provincial Park?
The park is generally dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep your dog on a leash and ensure you clean up after them. Specific trail rules for pets may vary, so check signage at trailheads for any restrictions.
What are some natural features or landmarks to look out for?
The park's centerpiece is Sugarloaf Mountain, an extinct volcano. You'll also find two lakes, Prichard Lake and Smith Lake, and a reservoir. The Prichard Lake trails lead to the historic Prichard family gravesite, offering a glimpse into the area's past.
Is there parking available at Sugarloaf Provincial Park?
Yes, Sugarloaf Provincial Park has facilities including parking areas to access the trailheads. Maps and signage are available throughout the park to help guide your experience.
What do other hikers enjoy most about Sugarloaf Provincial Park?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 6 ratings. Reviewers often praise the rewarding views from Sugarloaf Mountain, the peaceful forest treks, and the well-maintained trails suitable for various skill levels.
Are there any amenities or places to stay near Sugarloaf Provincial Park?
The park itself offers campgrounds for those wishing to extend their stay. The nearby city of Campbellton provides additional amenities, including cafes, pubs, and accommodation options. For more information on the park's offerings, you can visit the Tourism New Brunswick website.
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