The Orange County Land Trust announced new plans on Thursday to preserve the iconic Sugar Loaf Mountain for generations to come.

The 309-acre property in Chester was purchased for more than $2.35 million by the OCLT, a private conservationist group founded in 1993. 

OCLT representatives say they plan to sell the property to Orange County for the land to become a county park. A house and barn on the parcel will be separated from the property and sold separately.

Plans include the first-ever public access to the mountain’s summit and a trail connecting Sugar Loaf Mountain to Goose Pond Mountain State Park, according to Orange County Land Trust executive director Jim Delaune.

“They’ll be able to walk into the middle of Sugar Loaf. There’s bars and restaurants so, there’s a lot of components to it that make it exciting. It’s really our biggest project to date,” says Delaune.

Orange County Executive Steve Neuhaus says the county is still discussing the details of the purchase price.

"Sugar Loaf Mountain has breathtaking views and is one of the most beautiful landmarks in picturesque Orange County. I am proud to have worked with OCLT and the Palmer Family on this and could not be more excited about the future of Sugar Loaf Mountain, which will include public access, a trail system, and other outdoor activities for residents to enjoy for generations to come," says Neuhaus.