Maine Huts and Trails Begins Construction on its Third Backcountry Hut
May 26, 2010
KINGFIELD, Maine - The non-profit Maine Huts and Trails (www.mainehuts.org) has begun construction on its Grand Falls Hut, the third of 12 planned backcountry huts connected by 180 miles of non-motorized trails in Maine's scenic and remote Western Mountains region, two hours north of Portland. It is slated for completion late this year.
David Herring, executive director of Maine Huts and Trails, said, "The hut-and-trail system gives unprecedented access to one of the most pristine stretches of mountains, forests, lakes and waterfalls in the eastern U.S. It has been specifically designed to make minimal impact on this region's rich ecology, ensuring it will be preserved and enjoyed for many generations.
The new hut is being built above the banks of the Dead River about two miles below the Grand Falls, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the northeast. The most remote of the system's first three huts, the Grand Falls Hut will initially sleep 32 guests and will be accessible via trails from the east out of West Forks and from the west/south from Carrabassett Valley.
"Construction of Grand Falls Hut, more than 15 miles of new trails and a spectacular 200-foot pedestrian bridge over the Dead River completes the first phase of our vision," Herring said.
The Dead River is famed for its Class III/IV whitewater so the new hut is an ideal hub for whitewater rafting and kayaking enthusiasts. The river is also renowned for its trout fishery, and the area surrounding it offers many opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, paddling and cross-country skiing.
To date, more than 3,500 people from more than 25 states and several countries have stayed overnight in the huts. More than 7,000 people have enjoyed free use of the trails, including many school groups from throughout New England.
The first hut, sited on Poplar Stream above Poplar Stream Falls, was completed in February 2008 approximately 10 miles east of the Sugarloaf ski area. The second hut, on Flagstaff Lake approximately 11 miles north of the first hut and 12 miles south of the new Grand Falls Hut, was completed in January 2009 and was named one of "The Best Winter Adventure Lodges" by Outside Magazine that same month. Each of the huts can accommodate up to 42 guests.
Each hut offers a main lodge, private rooms for group accommodation, soft mattresses and pillows on each bed, hot showers, toilets, gear-drying rooms, and healthy home-cooked meals. A night's lodging with dinner and breakfast costs under $100 for adults and under $50 for children. Lunch, beer and wine are available for purchase at each hut.
"By offering these amenities at remote locations along the trail, we help manage human impact and provide accessibility for those seeking a soft-adventure experience," Herring said.
The huts are energy-efficient structures designed to blend harmoniously into their natural surroundings. All are "off-the grid," featuring state-of-the-art utility systems that generate and store their own power through a combination of alternative energy sources.
The well-marked and maintained trail system is open year-round and free of charge.The trails are used for a variety of people-powered outdoor adventure activities including cross-country skiing, hiking, mountain biking, and snowshoeing. Fishing, paddling and whitewater rafting opportunities can also be enjoyed nearby.
Construction of Grand Falls Hut has been made possible through the generosity of more than 1200 Maine Huts & Trails members and many major supporters including Robert and Gayle Greenhill of Greenwich, CT, Leon and Lisa Gorman of Yarmouth, ME, Richard and Nancy Rockefeller of Falmouth, ME, Clem and Rolande Begin of Carrabassett Valley, ME, Tom and Kate Chappell of Kennebunk, ME, Dead River Company and the Maine-based Elmina B. Sewall Foundation.
Maine Huts and Trails is a non-profit organization which contributes to the economic, social and natural environment of Maine's Western Mountain region by creating and operating a world-class, environmentally sensitive recreation corridor. Its backcountry trails enhance access to remote lakes, rivers and forest lands, and its low impact huts facilitate outdoor adventure and learning. The organization relies on the support of its members and private donations to fund the construction and maintenance of the hut and trail system. Membership levels start at $35 per individual per year. For more information on Maine Huts and Trails, visit www.mainehuts org.
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