BRIDGTON — The Loon Echo Land Trust staff will lead an ascent of the Bald Peak Trail to the Big Bald summit of Pleasant Mountain Preserve on Saturday, Dec. 9. Participants will meet at the Bald Peak parking area on Mountain Road at 8:45 a.m., with a hike departure time of 9.

Along the way, hikers will explore a geological feature known as “Needle’s Eye” and if conditions allow, will also visit Loon Echo’s newly acquired North Peak through a red pine woodland. The itinerary for the challenging four-hour adventure will follow the Northridge Trail to Sue’s Way Trail, and finish the loop back on Bald Peak Trail.

Participants must bring proper gear for winter travel, water and plenty of snacks. Conditions may require snowshoes or traction devices; participants should Loon Echo’s website or Facebook page for updates.

The hike is free and open to the public, but registration is required.

FMI, register: [email protected], 207-647-4352, www.lelt.org, facebook.com/loonecho/.

Hikers take in the winter view at Loon Echo’s Pleasant Mountain Preserve.