Diane Rodriguez leads a group of T.R.A.C. members on a snowshoe to Maine Huts and Trails Stratton Brook Hut in Carrabassett Valley on Friday, Feb. 7 (Photo by Jeff Zapolsky)

CARRABASSETT VALLEY — Trails for Rangeley Area Coalition, otherwise known as TRAC, is an social group of like-minded people who want to spend time recreating in the outdoors. In warmer weather, guided hiking, paddling, and biking treks are organized and offered on a regular basis. In the winter, the group’s adventures are planned around the weather. However, upcoming trips are announced with enough notice to, give group members time to prepare and plan.

There is no fee to join TRAC or to attend an outing. Volunteer leaders do not receive any compensation. However, transportation and equipment are not provided. Some outings require a trail pass, which is also the responsibility of the individual.

Since December, group hikes and snowshoes have included the Mingo Springs Trail, Mountain Pond trail, Rock Pond trail, and Oquossoc’s Bald Mountain. On Friday, Feb. 7, the a sizeable group traveled to Carrabassett Valley for a snowshoe to Maine Huts and Trails Stratton Brook Hut. After their 3-mile hike from the Stratton Brook trailhead on Route 27, the group enjoyed a pack-in lunch at the hut before heading back out.

Trails for Rangeley Area Coalition members hike to Stratton Brook Hut in Carrabassett Valley on Friday, Feb. 7. (Jeff Zapolsky photo)

“We had a great hike today,” organizer Jeff Zapolsky said. “The drive out there was difficult with snow squalls causing occasional white outs.  Overall a successful trip.”

Joining the group is as easy as sending an email to rangeleytrac@gmail.com or visiting Trails for Rangeley Area Coalition on Facebook.