Directions
The Loon Echo Trek is hosted at Shawnee Peak Ski Resort located six miles west of Bridgton on route 302. For directions from multiple locations, visit http://www.shawneepeak.com/mountain/directions/.
Parking
Enter at the main (second) entrance to the Shawnee Peak facility (look for the sign). Volunteers will direct you.
Check-In/ Registration
Hikers may check-in for their trek packet at the Pre-Trek Party on Friday evening or at Shawnee Peak on the morning of the event. See event schedule for options. The first shuttle departs at 10am.
Shuttle
The Loon Echo hike is not a circle. Hikers depart from Shawnee Peak parking lot via a shuttle to the trail head. From there, enjoy a beautiful scenic hike across the ridge of Pleasant Mountain back to the base of Shawnee Peak. Shuttles depart every twenty minutes beginning at 8:30am. The last shuttle departs at 10:00am.
Signage
The hike is clearly marked with signs and paint throughout the route. Refer to the hiking map for appropriate color markings.
Food and Drinks
Hikers will be well fed throughout the day. In the morning, coffee and juice are provided at Shawnee Peak. During the trek, there are several rest stops along the route with Maine food samplings. Finally, a warm BBQ meal will welcome finishers back at Shawnee Peak. Water will also be provided, but hikers are strongly encouraged to bring their own water bottles as well and to hydrate regularly.
Safety Support
Volunteer hikers and trained EMS personnel will be present along the hike to provide support if necessary. A “sweeper” will follow the final group to ensure all trekkers arrive safely back at Shawnee Peak. If you are having a problem along the hike, sit visibly on the trail and a volunteer will arrive shortly.
Pack Smart
All hikers are required to wear their trekker ID tag and to bring a water bottle and small back pack. Also, the weather in Maine is unpredictable, especially in September. Remember to pack comfortable shoes, layered clothing and rain gear. A hat, sunblock sunglasses, and camera are smart too. For extra precaution, incude allergy medication, compass or first aid kit.
Rules & Regulations Information
- Anyone under 18 must have a parent or legal guardian authorize participation in this event by signing the event waiver form
- Stay on marked hiking trails
- Hike in single file- do not trample sensitive vegetation
- Carry trash in, carry trash out
- Radios, Walkmans & headphones are prohibited
- Any use of illegal drugs or the use of alcohol on the trek route(s) is prohibited
Weather
The Trek will be held rain or shine. If the weather is dangerous (hurricane, lightning storm, etc), the event will be cancelled. A recorded message will be left on the office telephone by 6:30 a.m. on Saturday morning at (207) 647-4352 and on this website if the event is cancelled. Average temperature in Bridgton on this date ranges from 44 to 68 degrees. In the past, the trek at points has been as hot as 80 degrees and as cold as 40 degrees.
Cancellation
If you cannot attend or if the event is cancelled on account of dangerous weather conditions, your registration fee will be considered a donation to Loon Echo Land Trust (sorry, no refunds).
Check out
All hikers must “check-out” at the end of your trek at the ticket booth.