Coastal Rivers enhances visitor access at La Verna Preserve

New parking lot, expanded land conservation, and future housing plans aim to improve experience at popular hiking destination.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust has announced major improvements to the La Verna Preserve in Bristol, including a new, larger parking lot on the same side of Route 32 as the trailhead, expanded land conservation through land sales and donations, and plans to convert a two-story garage on the property into two housing units, one of which will be handicap-accessible. These initiatives are part of a $700,000 fundraising campaign, of which $500,000 has already been committed.

Why it matters

The improvements at La Verna Preserve aim to enhance visitor access and experience at this popular hiking destination by addressing previous parking challenges, improving safety, and providing new amenities like housing and trail upgrades. The expanded land conservation also helps protect the natural environment in the area.

The details

The new parking lot was made possible by the sale of a 10-acre property next to the preserve by Steve and Vicki Nichols in 2022, and a 13-acre land donation from neighbor Rebecca Bell last year. Planned additions include a new kiosk and interpretive panel at the trailhead. The two-story garage conversion will create a handicap-accessible rental unit on the first floor and housing for Coastal Rivers staff on the second floor. Future trail enhancements are also planned to reduce erosion and improve durability.

  • In October, Coastal Rivers completed the new parking lot.
  • In 2022, Steve and Vicki Nichols sold a 10-acre property next to the preserve.
  • In 2021, Rebecca Bell donated 13 acres of land to further expand the preserve.

The players

Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust

A land trust organization that manages the La Verna Preserve and is overseeing the improvements.

Steve and Vicki Nichols

Owners of a 10-acre property adjacent to the preserve who sold the land to Coastal Rivers in 2022.

Rebecca Bell

A neighbor who donated 13 acres of land to Coastal Rivers in 2021 to expand the preserve.

Steven Hufnagel

The Executive Director of Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust.

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What they’re saying

“We're so excited about this project and the community support that is making it possible. More, safer parking, a welcoming trailhead, and much-needed housing are all in process, and we're getting close to our fundraising goal.”

— Steven Hufnagel, Executive Director of Coastal Rivers (wiscassetnewspaper.com)

What’s next

Coastal Rivers plans to convert the two-story garage on the property into two housing units, with the first-floor unit being handicap-accessible and the second-floor unit serving as housing for Coastal Rivers staff. The remaining $200,000 of the $700,000 fundraising campaign is needed to complete this project.

The takeaway

The improvements at La Verna Preserve demonstrate Coastal Rivers' commitment to enhancing public access and conservation efforts in the local community. By addressing parking challenges, expanding the preserve, and providing new amenities like housing, Coastal Rivers is ensuring this popular hiking destination remains accessible and sustainable for years to come.