Acadia Invites Hikers and Dogs to Carry Soil for Summit Restoration

# What the event is Acadia National Park is running a volunteer hike called the Save Our Summits Bark Ranger Hike on September 12 that invites hikers and their dogs to carry soil to summit restoration sites. The work supports re-establishing native vegetation on two high-use summits: Penobscot Mountain and Sargent Mountain.

# Who's organizing it

# Why visitors are asked to carry soil

# Logistics you need to know

• Trailhead off Route 3.
• Route options: Participants will hike with a volunteer leader to either Penobscot Mountain or Sargent Mountain.
• Registration: Advanced registration is required. Sign-ups open on a rolling basis two weeks before each hike and close 24 hours before the event.

# Rules and gear for people and dogs

• Dogs: Pets are allowed for this special hike but must be on a leash no longer than six feet. Owners are responsible for pet safety on steep terrain and must collect and pack out pet waste.
• Terrain: The hike is described as relatively steep. Prepare accordingly—bring sturdy footwear, water, and whatever weight in soil you choose to carry.
• Soil loads: Participants choose how much soil to carry. The article notes that even carrying five pounds makes a meaningful difference.

# How this fits into ongoing restoration

# How to sign up Registration details and the Save Our Summits schedule are managed through Friends of Acadia. Because registration opens on a rolling basis two weeks before each hike and closes 24 hours prior, check Friends of Acadia's Save Our Summits page for the exact sign-up window and any last-minute changes.

# Practical advice before you go Plan for steep trails, limit what you carry to what you and your dog can safely manage, and bring water and snacks. If you bring a dog, use a six-foot leash, confirm your pet is fit for the distance and grade, and pack waste disposal supplies. Expect the hike to run roughly five hours if you join a typical Save Our Summits session.

# What volunteers achieve Carrying soil to summit restoration sites helps recreate substrate for native plants, slows erosion, and aids long-term recovery of sensitive summit ecosystems. Volunteer contributions add up: thousands of pounds of soil have been transported through these programs, directly supporting on-the-ground restoration efforts.