An elevated adventure awaits
Reaching nearly 85 feet into the sky, Sugar Loaf is a storied symbol of Winona and known by all as its most distinguishing landmark. The result of quarrying in the late 1800s, the bluff is synonymous with an old Native American legend that paints the rock as the cap of Dakota Chief Wapasha.
Learn more about the stories behind Sugar Loaf’s current form in this History to Go: Winona’s Sugar Loaf handout.
Hiking trails along its newly-updated front side of Sugar Loaf bluff offer adventure seekers a unique vantage point to see the city. Users, which consist of any silent sport (non-motorized), can utilize the trail that begins behind Edina Realty. Parking is available on Lake Boulevard; not in Edina Realty or Treasures Under Sugar Loaf Antiques.
Review of the New Sugar Loaf trail:
(December 3, 2017)
There’s a new trail. Now it’s even better!
“It’s always fun to hike to the Sugarloaf in Winona, Minnesota. This year, the Parks Dept. opened a new trail on the north side of the bluff. It’s a more gradual climb and makes for a very nice hour long hike. The old trail on the south side is still there, but is more steep and rocky. The new trail is mostly dirt, a little sandy near the top. The new trailhead is just behind the Edina Realty Office on East Lake Boulevard. You park on Lake Boulevard, walk up the Edina Realty driveway and up some steps, then start the trail which goes west and up along the bluff for about a quarter mile, before switching back to climb up to the base of the Sugarloaf Rock. It’s a pretty easy hike for all ages in tennis shoes. It was bit muddy in places, so hiking boots with good tread might be more comfortable, especially after rain. There’s a great view and nice places to take photos. Definitely worth the time: about 20 minutes up, spend 20 around the top, then 20 minutes back down.”