Teenagers from seven high schools all across Maine spent last weekend camping, hiking, clearing trails and just hanging out – outside. The weekend was arranged by Teens to Trails, an organization that works statewide to connect Maine’s middle and high school students to the outdoors. We’ve been at this since 2006, yet the need grows every year as our young people spend more time online, and their physical and mental health declines.

The benefits of time spent outside with peers are too numerous to list here – think physical activity, social connection, skill development, even career exploration. That’s why we’re called Teens to Trails. Our name tells you who we support and where we’re headed. Trails are far more than a dirt path through the woods; they’re invitations to adventure. They pull us from the familiar into the unknown, testing our strength, sparking curiosity, and building resilience and connections along the way.

We started one hike last weekend in the Camden Hills by reviewing a map and making a plan, then sent groups of students onto the trail. At first, they stayed in their school groups, keeping close to familiar faces. But soon, the trail worked its magic. As they moved deeper into the park, the student groups started blending. The faster walkers naturally grouped up, while others stopped to collect leaves, explore a stream, admire the scenery, or begin exploratory get-to-know-you conversations. Strangers became friends. By the end, groups had merged into one – bound together by their shared experience on a hike. They even designed a pledge for how to act the rest of the weekend, “Hang up and hang out.” Our youth are desperate for ways to make meaningful connections, and sharing time on a trail is a great activity.

Teens to Trails serves over 50 schools in Maine by helping them operate Outdoor Clubs, and we are now proudly standing with over 500 businesses, towns and organizations in support of the Maine Trail Bond (L.D. 1156). Though representing different groups, we’re united in a common goal: passing Maine’s first-ever trails bond. This initiative will make Maine a leader in creating recreational and multi-use trails that fuel local economies, strengthen communities and improve our quality of life.

Teenagers are losing their connection to nature, at a rapid pace. In a world consumed by screens and schedules, they’re spending less time outdoors, less time being active, and it’s hurting their mental and physical health. While Maine is blessed with an abundance of natural spaces, many places are falling into disrepair due to extreme weather, rising seas, and an unfortunate legacy of delayed maintenance. Maine invests almost nothing in trail maintenance, even though trails are the backbone of our outdoor economy, our brand for tourism and our personal well-being.

The $30 million Maine Trails Bond can change that. It will provide much-needed funds to design, build and maintain trails of all kinds, across the state. Whether you’re a hiker, cyclist, snowmobiler, or a teenager who is experiencing a peaceful walk in the woods with new friends, this bond is for you.

Everyone deserves the chance to experience the outdoors – no matter where they live, how much money they make, or how old they are. Teens to Trails is proud to support the $30 million Maine Trails Bond, and we urge you to join us. This November, vote YES on Question 4. Let’s make sure Maine’s trails remain a place of adventure, connection and growth – for generations to come.