KINGFIELD — Maine Huts and Trails was recently recognized with two awards for their efforts in creating a hut-to-hut trail system in western Maine.

At its recent national convention in Guadalajara, Mexico, the Society of American Travel Writers awarded one of five Phoenix Awards to Maine Huts and Trails. The Phoenix Award was established 40 years ago to recognize individuals, communities or organizations from across the nation that have contributed to a quality travel experience through environmental, beautification, conservation and preservation efforts.

At its recent Annual Showcase, the Finance Authority of Maine awarded Maine Huts and Trails with its Business at Work for Maine Award. The organization provides access to innovative financial solutions to help Maine citizens pursue business and higher education opportunities and has supported some of Maine Huts and Trails financing.

“We are absolutely thrilled and sincerely honored to be recognized by these two prestigious groups. This is a real indicator for us that we are truly beginning to fulfill our mission of creating a resource of national significance for Maine that helps protect public access, creates opportunities for outdoor recreation and generates economic development for the region,” said Dave Herring, executive director for Maine Huts and Trails.

Maine Huts and Trails currently offers more than 25 miles of
nonmotorized trails and two eco-lodges along the Maine Hut Trail. In
its first two years of operation it has already attracted more than
3,000 overnight visitors and countless day visitors. The organization has plans to construct its third hut and open an additional 25 miles of trails in 2010, which will allow visitors to travel along more than 40 miles of trails and stay overnight in three huts between Carrabassett Valley and The Forks.