BRIDGTON — Western Maine is best known for beautiful landscapes and endless recreational opportunities. Help protect both and register for the 2013 Loon Echo Trek scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 21, at Shawnee Peak.

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

Back by popular demand will be the “taste trek” which will offer hikers various snacks from local vendors and the improved finishers “nest” where trekkers are treated to free Allagash beer, massages and a BBQ meal.

Loon Echo Land Trust protects more tha 4,000 acres of land in the Northern Sebago Lake region. Executive Director Carrie Walia says she looks forward to the trek every year. “It’s wonderful to share such an amazing day outside with so many people who care about land conservation. The Trek also funds a significant portion of our annual operating budget, which allows staff to identify and negotiate new land purchases such as the exciting 1600 acre Perley Mills Community Forest project.”

While fundraising is optional, trekkers are encouraged to raise additional funds for the Land Trust with peak fundraising prizes including ski passes and bed and breakfast weekends donated by local businesses.

Registration is now open and people are encouraged to sign up for the “Early Bird Special” before July 1. For more information, visit www.loonechotrek.org. Volunteers are also needed for the trek and encouraged to email trek@lelt.org or call 207-647-4352.

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