CARRABASSETT VALLEY — The Healthy Community Coalition invites the public to join its members in a community walk Saturday at Maine Huts and Trails as part of Mapping Our Footsteps, a grant initiative from the Environmental Funders Network.

The walk begins at 11 a.m. June 11.  Interested participants should meet in the parking area at the Maine Huts and Trails Gauge Road Trailhead in Carrabassett Valley just prior to the start of the walk.

The 2 mile walk called “Larry’s Loop” parallels Poplar Stream along the north and south banks, culminating with two different waterfalls. A guide from Maine Huts and Trails will lead the walk and answer questions.

“This low impact walk provides an opportunity for the public to see how great a resource the Maine Huts and Trails system truly is,” HCC Program Associate Ryan DiPompo said. A drawing will be held at the conclusion of the walk with prizes including daypacks from by Aardvark Outfitters, water bottles, and HCC T-shirts. Poland Spring has donated water for the event and HCC will have trekking poles for people to try out.

The Mapping Our Footsteps program is dedicated to exploring and promoting the many free physical activity resources available in Greater Franklin County. Thanks to volunteer efforts over the past year, 35 local walking and hiking trails have been mapped, with descriptions and photos posted at www.mainetrailfinder.com.

Directions to Gauge Road Trailhead (access for Poplar Stream Falls Hut): From Route 27 in Kingfield, travel north approximately 8 miles, turn right (if you are coming north) or left (if you are coming south) onto Carriage Road. You will see a sign directing you to Trailhead parking. After crossing the Carrabassett River, take the second right onto Gauge Road. (You should see another sign). The trailhead is across the bridge and to the left.

For more information about Mapping Our Footsteps or if you would like to volunteer for mapping trails, please contact Ryan DiPompo at (207) 779-2214 or [email protected].