BRIDGTON — Western Maine is best known for beautiful landscapes and endless recreational opportunities. Help protect both by registering for the 2011 Loon Echo Trek scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 17, at Shawnee Peak Ski Area.

This 11th annual benefit for the Loon Echo Land Trust attracts hundreds of people from across New England and offers something for everyone. Choose between a 25-, 50- or 100-mile bicycle trek through breathtaking farm fields, lakes and mountains or enjoy a 6-mile hike “taste trek” across the ridge of Pleasant Mountain with gourmet rest stops along the way.

The “taste trek” is just one of several new features this year. Organizers are also excited to offer pre-event training rides in Bridgton, “looney games” for kids and families and a finishers “nest” where trekkers are treated to a free beer, massages and a BBQ meal. A pre-Trek party is also being organized for the night before so visitors can explore downtown Bridgton, meet other trekkers and learn more about the Land Trust.

Back by popular demand, the “toughest century in Maine” offers a challenging bike trek from Bridgton to Bethel and through Evans Notch in White Mountain National Forest. Serious cyclists should not miss this well-supported, scenic event.

Loon Echo Land Trust protects over 3,750 acres of land in the northern Sebago Lake region. Executive Director Carrie Walia said she looks forward to the event every year. “It’s wonderful to share such an amazing day outside with so many people who care about land conservation. The Trek funds a significant portion of our annual operating budget, which allows us to steward lands under protection, like Pleasant Mountain, and act on new land projects such the beloved Hacker’s Hill in Casco.”

While fundraising is optional, participants are encouraged to raise additional funds for the Land Trust, with prizes awarded to peak fundraisers. This year, people who raise $150 will earn a green prize package filled with environmentally friendly products. Higher prizes including ski passes, sailing lessons and bed-and-breakfast weekends donated by local businesses.

The 2011 Loon Echo Trek platinum sponsors include Hancock Lumber, Shawnee Peak Ski Area, 93.5 WMWV, 98.9 WCLZ and Magic 104 FM. Gold sponsors include Migis Lodge, Norway Savings Bank and the Appalachian Mountain Club. Twenty more sponsors at the silver and bronze level can be seen in the Trek website and brochure.

Registration is open. Both novice and experienced bicyclists are encouraged to sign up for the “early bird special” before Aug. 1. For more information, visit www.loonechotrek.com. Volunteers are also needed and are encouraged to email trek@lelt.org or call (207) 647-4352.

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