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To book a winter or summer getaway, call AMC Reservations at 603-466-2727, or visit www.outdoors.org/mainelodges.

Skiers, snowshoers, hikers, paddlers, and anglers will enjoy new outdoor adventures and new comfort with the opening of AMC's Gorman Chairback Lodge and Cabins on January 27. Located on the shore of Long Pond, Gorman Chairback is the newest stop on AMC's popular lodge-to-lodge ski route, as well as a spectacular weeklong destination.

The opening of Gorman Chairback will be the latest accomplishment of AMC's Maine Woods Initiative, the largest conservation project in AMC history, which seeks permanent protection of nearly 1 million acres in Maine's 100-Mile Wilderness near Moosehead Lake.

The lodge and cabins are named in honor of longtime AMC supporters and outdoor enthusiasts Leon and Lisa Gorman. Building of the new lodge and cabin remodeling was funded through generous contributions to AMC's Campaign for the Maine Woods.

Winter guests ski into the lodge and can take advantage of a new trail network near Long Pond and Henderson Brook, snowshoe up to Third Mountain on the Barren-Chairback Ridge, or enjoy the lodge reading area and wood-fired sauna. Guests can also take the lodge-to-lodge ski trail on to Little Lyford Lodge and Cabins. Summer guests can paddle the pond, hike on some 70 miles of AMC-managed trails, fish for wild brook trout and land-locked salmon, or simply enjoy the quiet beauty of the region. Moose, loons, and eagles, and even lynx tracks, can be spotted on surrounding AMC conservation land.

The new lodge is registered as a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) green building project. Furnishings have been provided through a generous donation by L.L. Bean. Newly refurbished private cabins include queen beds, wood stoves, and gas lamps. Home-cooked meals are served in the main lodge.

Gorman Chairback was first built as a private camp in 1867. It was a commercial sporting camp until 1990, and later a private summer residence. AMC is pleased to be reopening this historic Maine sporting camp to the public and protecting public access to a spectacular natural area.

Skiers enjoying trails surrounding the lodge. Photo by Jim Harrison Photography.

Rebuilding of Cabin 2, using traditional log construction. Photo by Gary Dethlefsen.

Lodge dining room takes shape. Photo by Gary Dethlefsen.

View from the dining room of the new lodge. Photo by Gary Dethlefsen.

Old AT trail marker behind the cabins. Photo by Marc Chalufour.

Maine Woods Operations Manager Gary Dethlefsen consults with local contractors Joe LaBrecque and Joel Boone. Photo by Rob Burbank.