Upper Sugarloaf Key Trail

The Upper Sugarloaf Key Trail is a paved out-and-back along a refuge road on Upper Sugarloaf Key. From the refuge gate, follow the mapped section about 1.7 miles northwest, then return the same way: about 3.3 miles round trip. It is nearly level and open to the sun, a simple outing if you want a walk or bike ride rather than a rugged hike. Allow roughly 1½ to 2 hours at an easy pace. The refuge’s visitor description rounds the total to 3 miles; its map section and the mapped road measure about 1.67 to 1.69 miles one way.

At the Upper Sugarloaf US 1 traffic light, turn onto Crane Boulevard and follow it about 1.3 miles to the refuge gate. That drive is the approach to the hike, not part of its walking distance. The trail starts at the gate and follows the paved corridor to its mapped western end. Walking, hiking and bicycling are allowed; motorized vehicles are not. Public trail access runs from 30 minutes before sunrise until 30 minutes after sunset. A formal parking area at the gate is not described, so do not count on services there.

National Key Deer Refuge was established in 1957 to protect Key deer and other wildlife. Key deer live only in the Lower Florida Keys, but the refuge does not identify this route as a reliable place to see them; treat wildlife as a bonus. Carry water and sun protection because the road is exposed and no drinking-water stop is listed at this access. Seasonal flooding can affect refuge trails. Pet rules are unclear, so check with the refuge before bringing a dog.