Click on either banner above to return to Sidewalk Talk or It's A Maine Thing.

Winter, 2008

Winter, Sorrento & Frenchman's Bay View


Mt. Katahdin, Aerial View



Winter Berries


Caterpillar Hill, Sedgwick, Maine

Fall, 2007

Poplar Stream Falls Hut
under construction,
due to open February, 2008.

Fall, 2007

When completed the creation of a 180-mile trail from Moosehead Lake to the Mahoosucs will comprise of 12 rustic huts, 400 beds and 180 miles of trail. Those who use the trail will experience a uniquely Maine system offering access to lakes, rivers and forest trails that will satisfy all ages and abilities. Similar in scope and concept to many other hut to hut systems throughout the world the Maine Hut to Hut is about providing the opportunity for future generations to experience and preserve the natural wonders of Western Maine in the North Maine Woods. Maine has a long-standing tradition woven into its history that has instilled the values and respect for the outdoors of those who have lived, worked and recreated here for centuries. The old sporting camps of yesteryear that brought hunters and fishermen by train into the woods, the vast lumbering that went on in the north Maine woods, using the water flow of the Penobscot and Kennebec Rivers as the source of transporting the wood and the communities that were supported by these endeavors established the relationship and traditions that Mainers for generations have had with the North Maine Woods. The tradition continues today with the development of this remarkable Hut to Hut system. The natural beauty of the Western Mountains of Maine is a stunning backdrop for the wide range of recreational experiences that the Maine Huts and Trails will eventually provide. While creating improved access for backcountry recreation opportunities such as snowshoeing and XC skiing, this effort will also provide a welcome and purposeful addition to the economy of the Western Mountains. These dual objectives should have great appeal to anyone who supports this idea. The first of the huts is slated to open in the winter of 2008. Located on Poplar Stream, the construction of Poplar Stream Falls Hut is well-underway and on target for a February 2008 opening. Construction manager, Dutch Demshar, and his crew began site work and excavation in mid-September and have not let up since. With cooperative weather this fall the bulk of the site work and half of the framing is completed to-date. The windows and roof are going this week so getting the hut enclosed prior to December will give the crew the ability to complete the interior finishes in December and January.

There will be mini-hydro power system, which will generate nearly all of the power needed to operate the hut. There is a wood boiler, solar panels and composting toilets. A cascade of spring water comes from the drilled well. After a long day’s adventure on the back country trails or a day spent on the water, imagine finding overnight comfort in one of several huts located at reasonable distances along the trail. Whether hiking, snowshoeing, paddling or skiing, guests of the huts will enjoy a warm shelter, well-prepared, healthy hot meals and a friendly, helpful staff. Designed to accommodate 35 to 40 guests, the huts will be energy- efficient and will encourage visitors to employ Leave No Trace™ practices to manage impacts along the trail. They’re yours to appreciate in your own way, in your own time, just like the sporting camps of another era.

We have stayed at places like this in the Canadian Rockies. Very little parallels the views from 10,000 feet in British Columbia along the edge of the Selkirk Mountains with Mount Asinaboinne as the backdrop , but nothing rivals the simplicity, quiet and beauty of Maine’s Western Mountains.

The Maine Hut to Hut is a wonderful opportunity for all Mainers to get outdoors and experience the natural bounty of this state we call home. Visit their website at…http://www.mainehuts.org