High Peaks Recreation Rangers (Rec Rangers)
The Rec Rangers are a team of stewards working across High Peaks Alliance, Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust, and Maine Huts & Trails lands. They care for more than 100 miles of trails, monitoring land use, addressing trail misuse or environmental impacts, and leading volunteer work parties.
We’re still hiring for the trail crew! If you’re passionate about trails, outdoor stewardship, and working in the High Peaks region, we’d love to hear from you.
Meet this year’s crew below.
Jake Treadway
Originally from Indiana, Jake (on the left) brings a strong background in mountain operations, having worked on trail crews and in lift operations in Colorado. Since arriving in Maine, he quickly found his place in the High Peaks after first discovering the area by chance at the Saddleback pub.
Jake enjoys spending his time outside hiking and snowboarding, and is eager to deepen his understanding of the natural world through his work this season.
“What inspired me to become a part of HPA is the opportunity to further develop my knowledge and understanding of the world around me.”
📸 RLHT’s Steward Ken Beaulieu
Lauren Mitchell
Lauren’s connection to the outdoors began early, growing up across the country and spending time in Germany as part of a military family. She later pursued that interest academically, graduating from the forestry program at Franklin County Technical Center.
A frequent visitor to the Tumbledown region, Lauren is excited for the opportunity to give back to the landscapes she already loves.
“I believe the work of HPA is important to the community as it allows and encourages people to get outside and enjoy nature.”
Emily Kidd
Emily grew up in Western Maine, where she spent much of her childhood helping on her family’s small farm. Outside of farm life, she explored nearby mountains including Bigelow, Tumbledown, and other peaks in the region.
Those early experiences shaped her strong appreciation for the natural world and her commitment to treating these places with care and respect. This summer, Emily joins the team as a Rockefeller intern, supporting stewardship efforts both on and off the trail.
“I am excited to be involved with conservation work this summer so I can help others gain an appreciation and respect for the natural resources of the High Peaks region.”
📸 RLHT’s Steward Ken Beaulieu
BPL Stewards (Bureau of Parks and Lands)
BPL stewards focus on keeping trails safe, clear, and sustainable throughout the season across the High Peaks region, including Tumbledown Mountain and the area around Flagstaff, Big Eddy, and Bald Mountain in Oquossoc. Stewards also provide visitor information and outreach and promote Leave No Trace principles.
Jack Slade
A lifelong hiker and nature enthusiast, Jack has spent the past few years building trails and exploring public lands across Maine after graduating college in 2024. His hands-on experience and appreciation for well-maintained trails make him a natural fit for the stewardship team.
He is especially drawn to the balance of rugged mountains and serene lakes that define the High Peaks region.
“I think that everyone benefits from clean and well-cared-for public lands, especially the unique mountains and waterways of this region.”
Join Us for a Volunteer Trail Work Day!
Want to get outside, connect with your community, and make a real difference for the trails you love? Join High Peaks Alliance for a Volunteer Trail Work Day this summer! Led by Recreation Ranger Matt Kusper, you’ll help with trail maintenance, reroutes, and general upkeep across iconic locations like Tumbledown, Saddleback, and Perham Stream Birding Trail.
Whether you’re a seasoned trail worker or just looking for a meaningful way to give back, every bit of help makes a difference. Come for an hour or stick with us all day from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Check out the full schedule and sign up to join us—trails need volunteers like you!
