MTC Member Spotlight: Lavinia Clarke
Our second MTC Member Spotlight featuring members involved in Maine’s long distance off-road trails, leads us to Lavinia Clarke, an Island Fellow for the Island Institute working with communities Downeast. In her role she aids the the Sunrise Trail Coalition and the Sunrise County Economic Council. The Sunrise Trail Coalition is building a healthier, more prosperous future for Hancock and Washington counties through efforts to complete and support the Down East Sunrise Trail- an 87 mile multi-use corridor connecting eastern Maine and the East Coast Greenway.
Now let’s learn a bit more about Lavinia and her #WhyTrails…
Why do you Love Maine Trails? Growing up in Western Maine, I spent most of my childhood outdoors, exploring a variety of trails. Regardless of the season, weather, or my level of experience, there was always something to do and a new place to discover. Whether it was the trail behind my house that was maintained by my dad, hiking the Katahdin range, or cross-country skiing on snowmobile trails, Maine offered endless opportunities for adventure. Trails in Maine range from those on private land to vast state-managed areas like Acadia National Park. This variety reflects how deeply access to nature and outdoor recreation are woven into Maine's identity.
What trail project are you currently working on or most involved with? What do you like about your work? I’m working with the Sunrise Trail Coalition to support efforts to extend the Down East Sunrise Trail from its current terminus in Perry to Calais by participating in the Rail Use Advisory Council for the Calais Branch Corridor. I’m also working with Sunrise County Economic Council on an accessibility and safety study of access to the DEST. Our goal is to better connect the DEST with the towns along its route to enhance community wellness, encourage outdoor activities, and increase local visitation.
Favorite trail activities? I’m a cyclist at heart, but love to walk and hike as well. Any trail near a body of water is where I want to be. In the winter, I try to cross-country sky any chance I get.
Favorite trail or trail memory in Maine? Since moving Downeast, I’ve had a blast exploring new trails. I recently went out to see Reversing Falls out in Pembroke. I was able to catch the rapids switching directions right before and after high tide which was magical! I also saw seals playing in the rapids catching fish!
Why are you involved with the Maine Trails Coalition? I’m involved with the Maine Trails Coalition because they’re a fantastic connection to the broader network of Maine trails beyond Downeast. Their work advocating for and supporting a diverse range of trail efforts across the state is something the Coalition wants to support and participate in.
How can people get involved with your work or with DEST? You can stay updated on our various projects by subscribing to our quarterly newsletter. Here’s how you can get involved:
DEST Extension Project: If you live in the area, you can listen in and provide feedback on the Down East Sunrise Trail (DEST) extension through the Rail Use Advisory Council (RUAC).
Village Access Project: Share your thoughts on our Village Access Project by completing our trail use survey.
Volunteer Opportunity: Join us for a work day at Cable Pool Park in Cherryfield on September 7th. Follow our Facebook @DownEastSunriseTrail for more details.
Membership: Become a member to receive updates on our projects and help support our trail maintenance and amenities, such as informational kiosks and picnic areas.
Also, be sure to follow Downeast Sunrise Trail on Facebook @DownEastSunriseTrail Look for the 2024 ATV Raffle, Ride-In, and Community Picnic (Sept 22), and stay tuned for the 2025 Down East Sunrise Trail Roller Coastal Gravel Ride- sure to be a great time!
