BRIDGTON — Loon Echo Land Trust will host a moderate snowshoe hike to the summit of Bald Pate Mountain at 10 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 21 and 22.

The hikes take approximately two hours. In the event that the dog sled race portion of the Musher’s Bowl Winter Carnival is cancelled, Loon Echo will hold the Saturday snowshoe hike, with the Sunday hike being cancelled.

Hikers should wear appropriate winter clothing, bring snacks, water and snowshoes (a few pairs will be available upon request). Check in at the Bald Pate Mountain parking lot by 9:45 a.m. to register. Although there is no charge for the hike, there is a $5 charge for an admission button to the Musher’s Bowl event.

Bald Pate Mountain Preserve is adjacent to Five Fields Farm, site of the Musher’s Bowl.  Activities will include skijoring, food and family fun.

Loon Echo Land Trust has been a sponsor of the Musher’s Bowl since 2006. Last year, Loon Echo Stewardship and Volunteer Coordinator Jon Evans led upward of 40 hikers to the summit. “It is a great event ,” stated Evans. “We are always glad to welcome new and returning visitors to the Bald Pate Mountain preserve.”

Bald Pate Mountain is located six miles south of Bridgton on Route 107. The Bald Pate parking lot is on the left at the top of the hill, just south of Five Fields Farm.

For more information about the hikes, other Loon Echo events or to reserve snowshoes, contact Jon Evans at jon@lelt.org or call 647-4352.