A Milestone for Trails on Maryland’s Eastern Shore

The Maryland Eastern Shore Trail Network (MESTN) started forming back in 2022 when various representatives from numerous counties, towns, and nonprofits from across the Eastern Shore came together to discuss ideas on a path forward to establish new trails throughout the region. ESLC and the Eastern Shore Trail Steering Committee, guided by chair Owen Bailey of ESLC, has been essential in moving this initiative forward.

Since 2022, MESTN has established a mission, vision, and strategic plan with the help of the National Park Service’s Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program (RTCA), enabled by a Technical Assistance Grant. MESTN members from communities across the Shore have contributed their time, expertise, and local perspectives, ensuring that MESTN’s direction reflects both regional consistency and localized needs.

On November 4, the Maryland Eastern Shore Trail Network gathered at Chesapeake College again for the first time since October 2023. Representatives from ESLC, Maryland DNR, MDOT, and several counties and municipalities got the chance to share recent wins, learn from neighboring states, and chart a united path forward for the region’s trails.

A highlight of the gathering was hearing trail success stories. Clint Sterling from Somerset County discussed accomplishments and progress on the Terrapin Run Recreational Trail (a rail trail near Crisfield), Steve Cohoon from Queen Anne’s County told the story of how the Cross Island Trail came to be, and Susan Banks from Dorchester County spoke about lessons learned through the establishment of a connector trail within the City of Cambridge.

Another highlight included presentations from trail advocates in Delaware and Virginia. Ann Marie Townsend, a former planner for the State of Delaware, shared details about the creation of rail trails in Lewes, Rehoboth, and Georgetown. Then Ron Wolff, Executive Director of the Eastern Shore of Virginia Rail Trail, shared plans and progress on the trail in the Cape Charles area. Hearing success stories in adjacent states was energizing for everyone in attendance.

a large conference room with people standing and also seated at tables After presentations and discussion, the group then unanimously approved a charter and elected its inaugural Board which officially establishes the Maryland Eastern Shore Trail Network as its own independent entity. With a newly elected Board and strong regional momentum, the Maryland Eastern Shore Trail Network is entering an exciting new chapter. ESLC and its partners extend deep gratitude to the community that continues to advocate for the importance of connectivity, healthy communities, and equitable access. Together, MESTN is building a healthier, stronger, and more vibrant Eastern Shore.

Learn more: Maryland Eastern Shore Trail Network.

a man writes and draws on a large poster on the wall about maryland eastern shore trails meeting — The energy of the day was captured beautifully through Jim Nuttle’s live graphic recording, which illustrated the ideas, goals, and collective excitement that emerged throughout the meeting.