BRIDGTON — Loon Echo Land Trust is hold its 17th annual trek fundraising event, the Norway Savings Bank Loon Echo Trek, on Sept. 15 at Shawnee Peak Ski Area.

Participants can choose between a 6-mile relaxed pace, noncompetitive recreational hike along the Southwest Ridge Trail or tackle the 8.4 mile Mountain Challenge Division trail race up, across the ridge and back down the peak.

In its first appearance in the trek offerings, the Mountain Challenge offers a fully supported route with food and water aid stations. The trail race will start at the base of the Shawnee Peak Ski Area and run up then across the mountain to the “Teepee” on the Southwest Ridge Trail. Racers will then return by the same route to the finish line at the base.

The untimed recreational hiking trek participants will be transported via van to the Southwest Ridge trailhead on the southern end of Pleasant Mountain for the 6-mile hike, which also offers refreshment stations staffed by volunteers.

The trek party will feature the traditional taco and potato bar lunch, free beer, live music and awards at the base lodge.

The event is limited to 200 participants and registration, which is now open, is expected to fill up quickly. Registration prices are: now to Aug 14, adult $45 and junior $30; Aug. 15 to Sept. 7, adult $60 and junior $30; day of event, $100 if space is available.

Online registration is at runreg.com/trek. For more information visit lelt.org/programs/trek. For questions about the trek contact coordinator Matt Markot at trek@lelt.org.

Loon Echo Land Trust protects over 6,600 acres of land and manages 31 miles of multiuse trails in the northern Sebago Lake region. Its mission is to work with the local residents to conserve the region’s natural resources and character for current and future generations.

For more information about events or support Loon Echo Land Trust, go to lelt.org or call 207-647-4352.

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