About This Event

Downeast Coastal Conservancy and Downeast Lakes Land Trust are coming together for a “Downeast Day on the Ice”. Join us at Vining Lake Community Preserve, located in Cooper Township,  for activities for all ages!

• Land trust staff and volunteers will be on the ice all morning with ice fishing equipment and lessons.*
• Join the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries & Wildlife for a naturalist demonstration and/or DCC and DLLT staff for a winter ecology hike.
• Give snowshoeing, cross country skiing, and ice-skating a try! Equipment will be available to borrow, FREE! Spencer from WCCC’s Outdoor Adventure Center will assist with any tips, tricks, and lessons needed.
• Take a short ride by horse-drawn sled with Ron Kilby and his draft horses.
• Participate in a snow sculpture contest or make some ice bubbles!
• Visit the Maine Mammal Furs touch table and learn about fascinating facts!
• Pick up a children’s themed craft, animal tracking resources, and learn about the Washington County 4H Program.
• Warm up by the fire pit, roast s’mores, and taste a sampling of smoked fish!

Everything is FREE! The event runs from 8am – 1pm. The date is subject to change depending on winter conditions. Follow DCC and DLLT on social media or check our website for updates.

*Maine state license is needed to participate in fishing if over the age of 16.

Directions/Parking: Turn onto the Vining Lake Road off of ME-0191 (Approximately 16.3 miles from the intersection of ME-191 and US-1 in East Machias, or approximately 17.8 miles from the intersection of ME-191 and US-1 in Baring). Vining Lake Road is 0.8 miles past the Cathance Lake Boat landing on the left if you’re coming from Machias. Continue on Vining Lake Road until you see a parking attendant or the main parking lot on the left. There will be slight walk down a gravel road to the event.

Event Organizer