CARRABASSETT VALLEY – A plan to build 12 overnight shelters and 180 miles of trails from Bethel to Greenwood is getting a major boost with a $1 million donation.

Businessman Clem Begin and his wife, Rolande, are donating $1 million to Maine Huts and Trails. Ground was broken nearly a year ago for the first wilderness lodge on the planned system of huts and trails for cross-country skiers, hikers and other outdoors enthusiasts.

The Begins also gave $520,000 to Carrabassett Valley Academy for its new campus, $170,000 to the Carrabassett Valley Public Library and Community Center and $60,000 to the Sugarloaf Mountain Ski Club. The donations were announced Saturday.