CARRABASSETT VALLEY – Maine Huts and Trails and the New Balance Foundation have jointly announced the grand opening of the Poplar Stream Falls Hut. The ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 16, at the remote hut site, located 2.5 miles from the trailhead.

After years of planning and fundraising, the hut-to-hut system will become a reality with the doors opening at Poplar Stream Falls.

“The support for this project tremendous. By building a nationally respected ecotourism destination, we hope that we can contribute to the economy in western Maine and be good to the environment at the same time. The trail, which is free and open to the public, is already becoming an outdoor recreation and environmental education resource for camps and other youth organizations, school groups and even a Nordic ski team. The hut will add a wonderful dimension for overnighters looking for a multi-day backcountry experience” said Bob Peixotto, chairman, Maine Huts and Trails.

The hut site was secured with a long-term lease through a partnership with the Penobscot Indian Nation. Located 1,500 feet from the south branch of Poplar Stream Falls, the site includes a main building and three small bunkhouses in the adjacent area.

The main building features a kitchen, group meeting space, lavatory facilities and lodging for up to four full-time staff. The facility will host dinner and breakfast for overnight guests in addition to providing an educational experience through interpretive displays and educational programming.

Three separate cabins will provide a combination of private and semi-private sleeping quarters for up to 40 guests. The Poplar Stream Falls hut will be open year-round and will provide a day-trip destination for visitors seeking a single-day non-motorized backcountry experience.

Upon completion, Maine Huts and Trails will consist of a 180-mile recreation corridor from Bethel to Moosehead Lake, and up to 12 huts with each designed to accommodate up to 40 guests. For more information, visit www.mainehuts.org or www.newbalancefoundation.org.