CARRABASSETT VALLEY — More than 65 volunteers are expected to take part in the second annual TrailFest 2014 Friday, Aug. 22 through Sunday, Aug. 24.

The event, organized by the Carrabassett Region New England Mountain Bike Association and Maine Huts & Trails, is part of a larger effort involving the town of Carrabassett Valley to establish the region as a top mountain biking destination.

Charlie Woodworth, executive director of Maine Huts & Trails, said “Visitors flock here every winter for the snow. As a mountain biking destination, we can attract more visitors in the spring, summer and fall, creating more economic opportunity for the region.”

By summer’s end, more than $300,000 will have been invested over four years on 45 miles of trails. In 2013, Carrabassett Valley saw its number of mountain bikers double to 4,000. Woodworth adds, “The region is on its way to creating a mountain biking mecca that may soon rival Vermont’s Kingdom Trails, which draw 50,000 visitors annually.”

The focus of this year’s TrailFest will be the expansion and improvement of the Oak Knoll Trail. When complete, the trail will connect the town’s Narrow Gauge Trail, a 6.6-mile trail that runs along the banks of the Carrabassett River, and the more than 55 miles of trails maintained by the Sugarloaf Outdoor Center to the Maine Huts & Trails’ Stratton Brook Hut. Work on the 2.8-mile Oak Knoll Trail began at last year’s TrailFest. The remaining 2.5 miles are slated for completion this fall.

TrailFest volunteers will receive free lodging at the Stratton Brook Hut on Friday and Saturday nights and free meals throughout the weekend. Weekend entertainment includes campfires, group mountain bike rides, live music and microbrews.

As there is limited bunk availability and tent space, and a large turnout is expected, those interested in volunteering are encouraged to make reservations by contacting David Hughes at [email protected] or 207-265-2400. Reservations are required for the event.