Pine Tree Camp opened its gates in 1945 as a summer camp for children with physical disabilities.  Over the years, it has evolved into a place where children and adults with disabilities are able to participate in all the recreational activities for which Maine is known all year long.  The barrier-free setting, along with an amazing staff, ensure that activities like swimming, fishing, kayaking, hiking, boating and even camping in a tent under the stars are completely accessible to all.  Participating in activities that take people beyond their disability has a tremendous impact.  It builds self-esteem and self-confidence.  That experience coupled with meeting friends who understand and experiencing the feeling of acceptance is transformational.  Pine Tree Camp welcomes all who could benefit regardless of their ability to pay tuition.  All proceeds from the Snowmobile Ride-In will go to Pine Tree Camp's fund to ensure this "Open-Door Policy" remains in effect.

Get to Know Jake Warn 

Jake Warn is proud to represent the Penobscot Snowmobile Club as their celebrity rider. Jake is the founder of SledTRX, an online Maine snowmobile trail map connecting riders to trailside amenities and snowmobile clubs statewide. He grew up in Winslow and attends Thomas College where he is studying business and entrepreneurship. Get to know more about Jake and his passion for sledding in the Q&A below. 

Have you ridden a snowmobile before? 

I have! Many times. As a kid I was always on a snowmobile putt putting around the yard and tying sleds on the back. On weekends, we’d ride together with family and friends. 

Do you like winter? 

I do. I think it’s really important to stay active in the winter months. In addition to snowmobiling, I’m a big snowboarder. 

I started SledTRX after going to a local chamber of commerce meeting centered around the effect of snowmobiling on the Maine economy. One of the biggest concerns was that the trails change every year and most of the maps are on paper which makes it hard to always know where you’re going. That’s what sparked me to put this digital map together. It helps take the guesswork out of planning your route and exploring new areas. 

Why is this snowmobile ride meaningful to you? 

I have a learning disability and, when I was younger, I’d go to Pine Tree Camp with my school. When I bumped into Pine Tree Society staff at a recent B2B event in Waterville, we started chatting and I thought the Ride-In was a cool way to engage campers during the winter season. Winter can be tough; it’s harder to find activities to do with people. I thought the Ride-In was a really neat thing. 

What’s your favorite song right now? 

That’s tricky! I’d have to say Traveller by Chris Stapleton. It’s a great song. It reminds me of how it feels sitting around after dinner chatting with friends and family.