Sugarloaf: The Mountain's History, Geology and Natural Lore

I bought this book some time ago, thinking that someday I really ought to visit Sugarloaf and this might offer some information to inform that visit. Well, I started reading it one evening last week and was captivated. I drove to Sugarloaf the next day and had a most enjoyable day. For a relatively short book, it is chock full of useful information, including detailed directions for reaching the mountain from either Washington or Baltimore (not as easy as you might think if you're driving from the Baltimore area as I was). It presents likely species you're likely to find--including trees and shrubs, non-woody plants, birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and more. The descriptions of the many trails in the immediate vicinity of Sugarloaf are very detailed and helpful. The history of the area is fascinating and the narrative about the four seasons on the mountain is especially well written. All of this information is presented in very readable prose, suffused with a conservationist and nature-loving philosophy. I highly recommend this book for hikers, naturalists, and those seeking a fun day outdoors in central Maryland.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book about Sugarloaf Mountain. As a hike leader with a local trail club, it was most helpful before leading a recent hike on the mountain. But more than that, I just loved reading it. The history, especially, was interesting to me, but the rest was very good as well. If you have ever been to (or wish to visit) this wonderful little slice of nature amidst all the suburban sprawl, you should read this book.

I used to live right next to Sugarloaf Mountain. It was my back yard, and a place I use to hike with with my son, and alone, to think about life and enjoy nature. What I love about this book is the author's love of the mountain is palpable in every page. She delights over each flower and tree. For those of us with an untrained eye, she also opens that eye to the natural wonders and diversity of native species that thrive on the mountain. The beautiful book has allowed me to fall in love with Sugarloaf all over again.

Choukas-Bradley and Brown's book is superbly written and provides a wealth of compelling information. Perhaps even more importantly, it reminds us of the value of our connection to sacred places in nature, something so threatened in our modern culture. This book has really increased my appreciation and enjoyment of Sugarlaf Mountain and all the natural beauty that surrounds it.

Sugarloaf is awesome sight