SEARSMONT — Join the Georges River Land Trust for its Georges Highland Path Hike-A-Thon on Saturday, Aug. 9 to support the maintenance and future expansion of the 50-mile Georges Highland Path trail network. This fundraising hike will follow the Canal Path and Ridge to River Trail in Searsmont, showing off the beauty of the upper Georges River watershed. There is a $20 entry fee for participants and a $100 fundraising minimum. Register today at www.georgesriver.org.

There are two route options for participants. The 3-mile route is mostly level terrain along the Canal Path that takes hikers from the Land Trust’s Appleton Preserve north along the Georges River to Robbins Lumber in Searsmont. The 6-mile route includes the 3-mile option plus part of the Ridge to River Trail that scales Appleton Ridge from Robbins Lumber.

This extended option offers stunning views of the Georges River valley. All proceeds from the Hike-A-Thon will be used to help maintain the trail system as safe and enjoyable for hikers, including routine trail maintenance, new bog- and footbridges, parking lot improvements, and seasonal trails staff.   

The Georges Highland Path is a 50-mile network of low-impact footpaths in the midcoast region built and maintained by the Georges River Land Trust. This unique trail system is based on the participation of private landowners who graciously give permission for the public to cross their land. The Land Trust’s goal in providing this vast trail system is to help members of the community forge a close relationship with the land and develop a keen and active interest in working to protect this magnificent area. 

Organized in 1987, the Georges River Land Trust works to conserve the ecosystems and traditional heritage of the Georges River watershed region through permanent land protection, stewardship, education and outdoor experiences.  The watershed extends from Montville in the north to Port Clyde and Cushing in the south and includes streams, ponds, lakes, wetlands, farms, hills, mountains, blueberry barrens and forest, as well as a rich tidal estuary of salt marsh, clam flats and productive fishing grounds.

For more information, visit Georges River’s website www.GeorgesRiver.org, or call (207) 594-5166.