KINGFIELD — The nonprofit Maine Huts and Trails celebrated the opening of the new Grand Falls Hut on Oct. 9, along with the dedication of the new Tom and Kate Chappell footbridge with a crowd of about 100 onlookers.

The fanfare began with the dedication of a new 200-foot pedestrian bridge which spans the Dead River. Tom and Kate Chappell cut the ribbon to open the bridge.

Afterwards, everyone hiked as one group to the hut for the hut dedication. Executive Director Dave Herring addressed the crowd and thanked the donors, including major donors, Robert and Gayle Greenhill. Then, the Greenhills did the honors by cutting the ribbon at the hut.

Those in attendance toured the new facility, which will sleep 32 guests and features the green energy systems that all three huts share.

The doors to the Grand Falls Hut were opened to the public on Oct. 10 and nonmember guests were welcomed to the hut beginning Oct. 12.

For more information on Maine Huts and Trails, visit www.mainehuts org.