ORLAND — Looking for a fun running challenge and a way to support local trails? Great Pond Mountain Conservation Trust (GPMCT) and Frenchman Bay Conservancy (FBC) are combining trail races in 2014 for the 2nd annual Downeast Double Trouble Trail Race Challenge.

The land trusts will host two races, one weekend apart, with the GPMCT Wildlands Trail Race on Sunday, Oct. 26 and the FBC Autumn Trail Race on Sunday, Nov. 2. Participants who run both races are eligible for special prizes.

The GPMCT Wildlands Trail Race in Orland's scenic Great Pond Mountain Wildlands is a 6.3-mile course on dirt roads and single track, over roots, rocks and mud, up and down hills, over small streams, past lovely views and munching moose. Total climb is approximately 1,200 gut-or-calf-busting feet. Registration starts at 10 a.m., race at 11 a.m. sharp. Enter through the South Gate on Rte. 1, near the Rte. 176 intersection.

The FBC Autumn Trail Race starts and finishes at Sumner Memorial High School in Sullivan, with registration beginning at 9 a.m. and the race at 11 a.m. After a short dash across the playing fields, runners enter the woods onto the tight, single-track hiking trails of FBC's Baker Hill and Long Ledges Preserves. Through these woods they'll encounter steep climbs, exposed granite ledges, gorgeous views, tree roots, varied and wild terrain, old white pines, a glimpse of Long Pond and the chance to twist an ankle.

Lunch will be available at both events for free. No dogs this year, for the safety of all runners.

Cost for each race is $20 pre-registered or $25 race day. Pre-register for BOTH races for $35. Register soon – space is limited to 150 runners (at each race).

Go to www.greatpondtrust.org or call Peter at 288-3909 for info on the Wildlands Race, or see www.frenchmanbay.org for info on the FBC race. Website visitors can download an entry form or follow the links to register online for one or both events at GetEvent.com.

Those who sign up for and complete both races (pre-register for both by Oct. 12) receive a Downeast Double Trouble Trail Race Challenge prize. Tees or bandanas also available for pre-registrants at both races and prizes for top finishers. Walkers welcome.