Flagstaff Foliage & History Weekend

On October 10–12, overnight guests and day visitors joined us at Flagstaff Lake Hut as we hosted our last public event of the summer season. The reds of the maples and yellows of the aspens, birches, and beeches provided a picturesque setting for enjoying the natural beauty and history of the area.

On Friday evening, an intimate group of overnight guests enjoyed a pasta dinner before listening to a presentation from Norm Kalloch of the Arnold Expedition Historical Society. With the event falling during the 250th anniversary of Benedict Arnold’s expedition to Quebec, Norm educated guests about the hardships and challenges of Arnold’s daring expedition. After the presentation, s’mores were enjoyed around the campfire.

On Saturday, those who had stayed over Friday night had the day to relax and/or explore the area around the hut. Some took advantage of the hut’s canoes and kayaks, while others opted for adventures on foot and bike. In the afternoon, more guests and day visitors began arriving in anticipation of the bean supper and live bluegrass music. Close to 50 people were served hearty portions of baked beans, biscuits, salad, hot dogs, and gingerbread. Following dinner, local bluegrass band, the Sandy River Ramblers, took the proverbial stage on the lawn outside the hut. Listeners gathered around the campfire while listening to traditional bluegrass tunes and original songs about Maine; they even participated in a sing-along around the fire at one point during the concert.

Guests departed after breakfast on Sunday, heading back to the trailhead or out for further adventures in the area. Some even headed to the Great Carrying Place Portage Trail to witness the Arnold Expedition reenactors passing by. It was a great weekend with perfect weather to enjoy the beauty of the Flagstaff Lake Area in fall!