Announcing new Akron Section Supervisors

Despite passing through one of the most populated areas of the Buckeye Trail, the Akron Section feels remote. It is one of only three sections that is mostly off-road, with frequent resupply options. The trail lies entirely within the glaciated Allegheny Plateau, featuring both flat stretches and steep transitions up to 30% grade. In dissected areas, climbs and descents can reach 120 feet. Northern segments mix plateau highlands, lowlands, and historic canal towpath, while the southern half follows the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail continuously.

With this remote nature and steep transitions through land managed by key partners such as the Cuyahoga Valley National Park, bringing in Lori Luken and Elyria Little as Section Supervisors for the Akron Section ensures strong leadership in a key section of the Buckeye Trail.

About Elyria Little (Left)

Elyria Little is a solopreneur, hiker, and trailbuilder who brings years of experience in environmental education, nonprofit development, and community-based conservation to the Buckeye Trail Association. Elyria has led nonprofit programs in Chicago and Cleveland focused on energy efficiency, sustainability, trail maintenance, workforce development, and urban forestry, and holds a master’s in environmental management. When they aren’t out digging in the dirt, Elyria serves as chair of the Strategic Planning Committee, as a member of the Development and Finance Committees, and also serves as expert cat furniture, often at the same time.

About Lori Luken (Right)

Lori Luken, a retired pediatric nurse practitioner, has a real passion for trail construction and likes to get her hands dirty as often as possible. Lori currently serves as chair of the Board Resources Committee, and is an active member of the Trail Management Team and the Strategic Planning Committee. She’s a Trail Adopter, too, and in addition to joining work parties around the state, you might spot her in the camp kitchen making sure everyone has a solid meal to fuel their work on the trail.