More Than a Trail Ride: Oquossoc ATV Club Kicks Off Holiday Giving Drive
Updated: 13 hours ago
Nearly 40 ATVs and side-by-sides, 65 participants, an early visit from Santa, and a whole lot of generosity. The Oquossoc ATV Club's Toy & Winter Clothing Drive Kick Off Ride on October 11, 2026, was a tremendous success, bringing together riders from three states for a day of adventure, friendship, and giving back.
The destination may have been lunch on the south side of town, but the real purpose of the ride was much closer to home: helping make the holidays brighter for children and families in the Rangeley Region.
A Busy Morning in Rangeley
The excitement began early on Depot Street in Rangeley as trucks, trailers, ATVs, and side-by-sides rolled in for registration. Riders traveled from across Maine and as far away as Connecticut and Vermont to participate, quickly filling the available parking area.
Fortunately, local businesses stepped up to help. Boss Power Equipment and Rangeley Lakes Builders Supply generously opened their parking lots to accommodate the overflow, helping get the day off to a smooth start. We had raffle prizes donated by Sarge’s Sports Pub and TrailIntel.
Meanwhile, Santa Claus made a special early-season appearance, greeting participants and posing for photos as riders checked in.
And nobody came empty-handed!
Participants arrived with donations of toys, hats, mittens, pajamas, and monetary contributions, all destined to help local families through the Giving Tree of Rangeley.
Three Clubs, One Great Cause
The event brought together the Oquossoc ATV Club and two enthusiastic ride partners: We-ATV 207 and the Topsham Trailriders ATV and Snowmobile Club.
A special thank-you goes to Jenny and Mike from We-ATV 207, who handled radio communications, coordinated safety, and led an informative and entertaining riders' meeting before the group headed out.
With nearly 40 machines and 65 people participating, the group set off, enjoying the scenery, the trails, and plenty of conversation along the way.
Of course, a good trail ride deserves a good lunch!
Tina and Troy made sure nobody went hungry, preparing a welcome trailside meal of Italian sandwiches, chips, coffee, and hot cocoa. Their hospitality added another memorable moment to a day already filled with camaraderie and community spirit.
Helping the Giving Tree of Rangeley Make Christmas Brighter
The real winners of the day's festivities are the local children and families who will benefit from the donations collected.
All toys, winter clothing, and monetary contributions gathered during the event are being provided to the Giving Tree of Rangeley, an all-volunteer organization dedicated to helping neighbors in need.
The Giving Tree works to make the holiday season brighter for families throughout the Rangeley Lakes area, providing gifts and essential items that bring both comfort and joy.
For the Oquossoc ATV Club, supporting the Giving Tree has become a meaningful tradition. The club's continued involvement reflects a commitment to the community that extends well beyond maintaining trails and organizing rides.
Every donated toy, warm pair of mittens, and dollar contributed represents another way the ATV community can make a difference.
Thank You to Everyone Who Made It Possible
An event of this size doesn't happen without people willing to lend a hand.
The Oquossoc ATV Club extends its sincere appreciation to We-ATV 207, the Topsham Trailriders ATV and Snowmobile Club, Boss Power Equipment, Rangeley Lakes Builders Supply, Jenny and Mike, Tina and Troy, and everyone who helped organize and support the ride.
Most importantly, thank you to the riders, volunteers, and supporters who arrived ready to give.
Whether you traveled from another state, helped with logistics, prepared food, donated gifts, or simply showed up to support the cause, you helped make this event something special.
Keep the Spirit of Giving Going
The October 11 ride may be over, but the opportunity to make a difference doesn't end when the engines are turned off.
If you weren't able to participate and would still like to support the Giving Tree of Rangeley holiday drive, you can make a contribution through the Oquossoc ATV Club website. Simply select the option to designate your donation for a specific campaign and enter Giving Tree Holiday Drive as the reason for your contribution.
General donations to the Oquossoc ATV Club are also welcome and help support the volunteer efforts that keep our local ATV trails maintained, repaired, and ready for safe, enjoyable riding.
The best thing about a day on the trails isn't where you ride. It's what you accomplish together.
Thank you for helping us make a difference. See you on the trails!
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