Don't let our Maine Huts & Trails close

Don’t let our Maine Huts and Trails close.

Winter is coming, and Maine Huts & Trails may not be able to open.

 Behind one of Backpacker Magazine’s “world’s top hut treks” is a little nonprofit that needs your help. Their shoestring budget is no longer enough to keep the one-of-a-kind huts open or groom the 80 miles of free, public access wilderness trails they care for.

 Even a temporary closure means the loss of unique winter experiences in our pristine Carrabassett Valley, and another economic loss for Maine’s Franklin and Somerset Counties at the worst possible time.

 The organization set out to raise the $500,000 necessary to be open for winter, and with $100,000 left to raise, we are asking for your help.  If you are an outdoor enthusiast, a believer in getting children active through experiences in nature or a friend that sees the economic and environmental impact this organization has made in its short 11-year history – your action can make a difference.

Your contribution means work for our neighbors who look after the trails, huts and hikers, skiers, snowshoers, and fat bikers.

Your contribution means there will be firewood and propane to keep hikers and skiers warm and able to cook their dinners.

Your contribution will help Maine Hunts & Trails continue to live its mission to provide backcountry experiences that inspire reverence for the Maine’s woods and waters and help strengthen the local economy, by bringing more paying visitors to the area and trails when they need them most.

If you have ever enjoyed Maine Huts & Trails, think back to the words you left in our log-book. Then send MH&T what you can, so they’re here when you come back.

If you’ve never been, the photos on the website will show you what they are about. Have a look and send what you can. Then make plans to come. You, your family, your friends will rejoice that you did.

The problem and how we’re fixing it

Our annual budget is $1 million in payroll and $400,000 for supplies and services. What we charge for bunks and meals and gear from our shop isn’t enough. We have a new financial plan in place to fill the gap with through partnerships (non-profit and for-profit), public funding, and new grants – and stronger financial leadership to see it through. Maine Huts & Trails is on the right trail, but right now we need you to help the huts & trails be available this winter.

To learn more go to mainehuts.org