Introduction

Often touted as one of the best and most visited Universal Access trails in southern Maine, the Big A Trail, has become an integral part of the community, accessible to people of all abilities and all ages. Mount Agamenticus and its extensive trail system are crucial to the physical and emotional health of our communities. The Big A Trail is especially cherished by seniors who need stable, solid footing, and by families with young children, runners, hikers, and bikers alike.

The 1-mile loop trail is a challenge to maintain because of the natural wear from extensive use and its exposure at the summit where varying and often extreme weather conditions result in damage and erosion. Extreme storms over the last two winters have gouged gullies within and around the trails, as well as eroded surfaces that all compromise public safety.

The Big A Universal Access Trail Restoration Project is estimated to cost over $160,000.

Remediation Needs

Specific needs for remediation include but are not limited to the following:

Raise tread at least 1-2” throughout and out-slope
Re-open all the uphill ditching (to encourage water to drain toward box culverts)
Re-decking bridges, box culverts and circle summit deck
Re-working ADA connection to new parking lot
Address washout area/harden or rebuild at eastern overlook
Add stone/boulder barrier at intersections of Sweet Fern trail and Vultures View trail
Install approximately 3 stone steps connecting to Big A and parking area to the west
Extension from upper northern overlook for direct access to lower section of Big A trail and overlook

Grant Match

Thanks to a generous grant of $120,000 from the Recreational Trails Program (RTP), an assistance program of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to the Mount Agamenticus Conservation Program, our fundraising efforts have had a tremendous kickstart! 🌞

The Friends of Mount Agamenticus is now seeking to raise the remaining $40,000. We are asking that you please consider donating to help fund this pivotal community project.

We want to improve access for everyone of all abilities, provide nature-based connections and educational opportunities which have long-lasting beneficial impacts on community health and native habitat, while protecting the unique natural resources that exist at the mountain.

Approximately 50,000 visitors a year enjoy health-giving nature connection via the Big A Trail, as well as panoramic views, wildlife, native flora, celestial events, and resting places on the memorial benches along the way. It is the go-to trail for Mount A Learning Lodge volunteers and outreach and educational programs.

You can help the Friends support the Big A by making a donation today!

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