Dear Nature Enthusiast,

If you love the great outdoors as much as we do, we’ve got some exciting updates from the trails of Sugarloaf Mountain to share with you! Thanks to the support of our community, the Sugarloaf Heritage Council has been hard at work creating new ways to connect with nature, and we couldn’t be more thrilled about our progress.

Here are some of the highlights from 2024:
 

🌟 New trail connections! Sugarloaf Mountain Trails now link to the Sulphur Creek Trails, creating a scenic path all the way to the lake. Whether you prefer hiking or biking, you’ll love this beautiful journey through Heber Springs.

🗺 Updated trail maps. We’ve added fresh trail maps (including the Vanguard trail) to our website, trail kiosks, and brochures—now available at 14 Welcome Centers and local businesses.

🌿 Exciting biodiversity project. With the help of iNaturalist, we’ve identified 351 species on the mountain through 541 observations. Share your own discoveries with this amazing tool! (www.iNaturalist.org)

🐾 Trail upgrades. From doggie cleanup bag dispensers to weekly-maintained portable toilets, we’re making your outdoor adventures even more enjoyable.
 

🌳 A special tribute. A Swamp White Oak now stands in memory of Dr. Michael “Mickey” Barnett, a beloved local historian and pioneer advocate for the trails.

🚩 Durable trail markers. New rock signs (no more theft!) and mileage markers make it easier than ever to navigate the trails.
 

🔥 Trail care continues. We’re tackling washouts, erosion, invasive species, and prepping for a controlled burn to keep the area safe and pristine.
 

🌻 A rock wall garden. Featuring native plants garden with over 50 deer-resistant, drought-tolerant, and medicinal species. Master gardeners, Master Naturalists, and local volunteers planted them, added identification markers, and placed several benches.

Of course, all of these maintenance efforts and improvement investments come with an ongoing need for volunteer hours and money for building materials. Every dollar donated goes directly toward our efforts to ensure our community can maintain and preserve this natural treasure for years to come. Whether it’s fighting privet or adding new amenities, your support truly makes a difference.

Will you help us keep the trails thriving? As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, your contributions are tax-deductible and deeply appreciated. You can donate via our website, Facebook page, or by mail. Together, we can keep Sugarloaf Mountain Trails a haven for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Thank you for being part of this journey with us!

With gratitude and trail dust,
Sugarloaf Heritage Council

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THANKS for your support!

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