Even though the final connection to North Bloomfield Road is still in progress, the community has already begun enjoying the new Sugarloaf Trail and the response has been incredible.
Trail users have been lacing up their hiking shoes, filling their water bottles, and heading out to experience the sweeping views and beautiful terrain along the trail and from the top of Sugarloaf Mountain.
From the summit, hikers are rewarded with stunning vistas of the forests and historic downtown Nevada City
Accessing the Trail
The main trail access is from the brand-new parking lot about ½ mile uphill on Coyote Street. From there, visitors can enjoy a meandering climb through the manzanita forests to the summit or a scenic downhill adventure through the forested switchbacks designed to keep the trail enjoyable and manageable for a wide range of users.
Whether you’re looking for a quick walk, a workout, or a peaceful place to take in the views, the trail is already becoming a favorite community destination.
So… Why Isn’t the Final 200 Feet Finished Yet?
This is the question we hear most often.
The final segment needed to fully connect the trail to the stoplight at North Bloomfield Road requires construction within the Caltrans right-of-way. Because of that, the City must first obtain a Caltrans encroachment permit before construction can move forward.
While the remaining section is short — roughly 200 feet — the permitting process has been much longer and slower than anyone anticipated. Multiple agencies are involved, and projects within state highway corridors require extensive review to ensure safety and compliance.
The good news is that the City continues working closely with Caltrans to secure the final approvals needed to complete the connection.
What Else Is Coming?
There are still a few exciting finishing touches in the works:
- Trail signage is on the way to help visitors navigate the system and understand distances to key destinations.
- Bike-friendly switchback improvements are being evaluated to make certain turns easier and safer for riders.
- The final downtown connection remains a top priority and will create a seamless route from downtown Nevada City to Sugarloaf once complete.
Thank You for Your Patience
Projects like this take time, coordination, and persistence — especially when multiple agencies and permits are involved. We deeply appreciate the community’s patience and enthusiasm as we work through the final steps.
In the meantime, the trail is already delivering something special: a new place for people to walk, ride, connect with nature, and experience the incredible beauty surrounding our community.