Camden, ME – May 26, 2011 – As part of the national celebration of trails and in honor of the many volunteers who help maintain them, the Ragged Mountain Recreation Area will host National Trails Day Saturday, June 4th. The event also will seek volunteers to perform trail clean-up, maintenance and other trail related projects.

National Trails Day attracts over 35,000 volunteers across the country. On June 4, 2011, American Hiking Society’s National Trails Day will bring together outdoor enthusiasts throughout the United States for the 19th annual celebration of America’s magnificent trail system and its countless supporters and volunteers. More than 1500 events will take place around the country including trail maintenance, hiking, paddling, biking, horseback riding, bird watching, running, trail celebrations and more.

The Camden Snow Bowl is the hub of the Ragged Mountain Recreation Area. “As a gateway to a vast trail network, the Snow Bowl is the perfect gathering point for anyone wishing to enjoy the incredible natural resources in our own backyard and also to put something back into the community by helping take care of the trails,” said Jeff Kuller, Camden Parks and Recreation Director. “It will also be a great opportunity to learn about the planned redevelopment and expansion of the area, and talk with leaders of several outdoor-related organizations.” Participating organizations include Coastal Mountains Land Trust, Georges River Land Trust, the Midcoast Chapter of the New England Mountain Bike Association, Friends of Pathways, Camden Riverwalk Coalition and the Camden-Rockport Pathways Committee.

The event will begin at 9:00 AM. After a few opening remarks work details will begin with each organization gathering volunteers and departing for their specific trail project. All groups will re-gather at the Snow Bowl at 12:30 p.m. for a barbeque. The Camden Parks and Recreation Department will provide items for the grill and everyone is encouraged to bring side dishes or deserts.

There will be projects suitable for all ages and abilities, and everyone is encouraged to participate. Participants should wear sturdy boots and bring their own, work gloves, weather and insect protection, water, snacks, and favorite trail maintenance tool. Additional tools will also be provided.

National Trails Day was established in 1992 and has become a long-standing celebration of America’s magnificent trail system and its countless supporters and volunteers. National Trails Day is a program of the American Hiking Society. Founded in 1976, American Hiking Society is the only national, recreation-based nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and protecting America’s hiking trails, their surrounding natural areas and the hiking experience. To learn more about American Hiking Society and its mission and programs, visit www.AmericanHiking.org or call (301) 565-6704.

The Ragged Mountain Recreation Area is currently in the planning and fundraising stage of a significant redevelopment plan, including an expanded hiking and mountain biking trail network, a new lodge and event center, enhanced ski terrain and up-hill lift capacity, new beginners ski area, and nordic ski trails. The Ragged Mountain Recreation Area Foundation is committed to raising $6.5 million ($4.5 million in private funds and $2 million of municipal funding) to finance this comprehensive project that not only will dramatically improve the facility, but also increase usage and build long-term financial strength. For more information, call (207) 236-3438