KINGFIELD — The nonprofit Maine Huts and Trails has announced the dedication and grand opening of the newest hut, Grand Falls Hut. The event is slated for the long Columbus Day weekend, Oct. 9 to 11.

The weekend will begin with the dedication of a new 200-foot pedestrian bridge at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 9. The bridge spans the Dead River, connecting the ends of the new Dead River trail which leads to the new hut. Immediately following, at 4 p.m., the Grand Falls Hut will be dedicated. The public is invited to attend the ceremony.

Additional details on traveling to Grand Falls will be posted at www.mainehuts.org. Invited guests, VIPs and major donors will occupy the hut Saturday night. On Sunday night, the doors will open for member guests. Nonmember guests will be welcomed to the hut beginning Oct. 12.

The new hut has been built above the banks of the Dead River about two miles below the Grand Falls. The most remote of the system’s first three huts, the Grand Falls Hut will initially sleep 32 guests and is accessible from the west/south from Carrabassett Valley.

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.

Each hut offers a main lodge, private rooms for group accommodation, mattresses and pillows on each bed, hot showers, toilets, gear-drying rooms and 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.

Construction of Grand Falls Hut has been made possible through the generosity of more than 1,200 Maine Huts and Trails members and many major supporters. 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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