Sugar Loaf is Coming Home
For over two decades, Sugar Loaf stood silent. Its trails were quiet, its summit still, its stories paused. But something extraordinary is happening at this beloved Leelanau icon.
Because of you, Sugar Loaf’s next chapter is begining.
The old ruins have been cleared. The abandoned ski infrastructure is gone. And now, thanks to the overwhelming support from our community, we’ve reached our fundraising goal. Sugar Loaf’s 285 acres will be permanently protected and revitalized for all, forever.
This is our moment. And it’s only the beginning.
Imagine families discovering trails together. Kids sledding down the hill while parents watch from the summit pavilion. Cross-country skiers gliding through quiet, snow-covered forests. Friends of all abilities exploring the land on a universal access trail designed to welcome everyone.
Sugar Loaf will be a place where conservation and community grow side by side. Where native species thrive, and where new memories are made year-round.
While our fundraising goal has been met, additional gifts will support the long-term stewardship that keeps trails safe, facilities welcoming, ecosystems healthy, and Sugar Loaf magnificent.
Whether you remember Sugar Loaf from decades past or are dreaming of your first visit, Sugar Loaf is coming back to life. The best stories are still to come.
FAQs
When can I visit? Does the Conservancy own it now?
Not yet! We will be fundraising until the end of the year and will own Sugar Loaf once fundraising is complete. Work will begin on the recreation vision in spring 2026.
What types of skiing will be allowed?
Visitors will be able to enjoy cross country and human-powered backcountry skiing.
What else will I be able to do there?
Plans include opportunities to:
-Hike: An extensive trail system including an accessible, all-abilities trail
-Ride: Mountain bike trails
-Climb: The stepway to the summit
-Play: A children’s nature playscape, a sledding hill
-Relax: Two pavilions to provide respite
-View: The iconic scenic vista from the top
What is the cost of the vision and how much is left to raise?
In addition to the generous donation of the land, we have less than $2 million to raise in order to reach our goal of $8 million for restoration, safe access, and ongoing management.
Is the airstrip and/or golf course part of the project?
The airstrip and golf course remain separate and are not part of the project.
Who is gifting the property?
The generous landowner wishes to remain anonymous. They sought out the Leelanau Conservancy for our expertise in land conservation and recreation.
Wait, so if the property is being gifted why do you need to fundraise?
We are fundraising to pay for creation and maintenance of the accessible recreation assets and the ecological restoration of the land.
How can I support this project?
Donate to Sugar Loaf by clicking here or sign up for volunteer opportunities by clicking here.
How can I stay up to date on this project?
Sign up for our e-newsletter at leelanauconservancy.org/newsletters
Share Your Thoughts
We invite you to share your thoughts, stories, and questions about Sugar Loaf.
With your help, we can protect and restore this local icon, and your voice matters in shaping its future. Whether you have memories of skiing here as a kid, hiking its slopes, or simply admiring it from afar, we want to hear from you.
Please use the form below to share your feedback, questions, or personal stories. We love hearing why Sugar Loaf matters to you, and how you hope to spend time there.
Click here to share your thoughts.
Volunteer
We’re excited and glad you are too! Stay updated on progress at Sugar Loaf by signing up for our e-newsletter.
Our volunteers have a lot of fun. From invasive species removal to trail maintenance, there will be plenty of ways to get involved. Sign up here to get on our volunteer list.
Join Us
Leelanau has an incredible opportunity right now. Protecting Sugar Loaf is about preserving land and scenic character, yes, but it’s also about protecting the places where our kids will explore, where wildlife thrives, and where clean water flows.
Every dollar you contribute directly funds Sugar Loaf’s future and conservation efforts. Your support makes a real impact on real land.
This is our moment to make a lasting difference in Leelanau’s future. Will you join us?
