Events and Programs


Filtering by: “adventure”
Naturalist Workshop Series- Solstice Paddle
Jun
21

Naturalist Workshop Series- Solstice Paddle

Celebrate summer solstice with a paddle on Little Dyer Pond at Hidden Valley Nature Center.

Walk the 1.4 miles down to the pond, stopping to check out the beaver dam and lodge on Haybale Pond.  At the waterfront, learn some basic canoe skills before launching into the pond. As a group we will paddle around Little Dyer Pond checking out beaver works, animal habitats and no name island. What better way to celebrate the longest day of the year then on the water! 

All experience levels and ages are welcome. Please wear comfortable hiking shoes for the walk to the pond and bring sandals or water shoes that you don’t mind getting wet for the paddle. Be prepared for all weather, bugs and sun. If you own a personal floatation devise please bring it, as well as water and snacks.   

Participation is free, but registration is required.


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Jun
25

Wednesday Wander

Join naturalist Susan Cottle for a fern walk at Stetser Preserve in Jefferson. Learn about these vascular spore producing plants as you follow the trail along an unnamed perennial stream to a small pond. Gain confidence in identifying multiple varieties of ferns,  how they reproduce, where they like to grow, and how to tell them apart. There's a lot to appreciate about ferns. 

The Stetser Preserve is a wooded upland forest particularly rich in wildlife diversity because it is located within a 7,000-acre tract of roadless habitat. The trails wind through hilly woods and old logging trails and include a short spur trail that leads to a view of the property's beautiful pond.

Registration is encouraged but walk-ins are welcome. Well-behaved pets that get along with others are welcome. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring water.

While there is no age limit for this program, children under 18 should be accompanies by an adult.


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Naturalist Workshop Series - Understanding Trees
Jul
5

Naturalist Workshop Series - Understanding Trees

Join naturalist Susan Cottle for a walk and learn workshop on trees at West Branch Preserve in Somerville!

Gain a better understanding of the integral role trees play in the ecology of a forest. Learn to identify coniferous and deciduous varieties by their leaf and needle structures, branching forms, and unique bark. Spend the morning immersed in the forest gaining new perspective on the trees we are surrounded by in Maine. 

West Branch Preserve includes steeply sloping terrain as well as flat and wide trails along the West Branch Stream where cascading pools of water flow through a hemlock-lined ravine to the beaver dams and meadows at the base of Haskell Hill. Protecting this land helps ensure a lengthy section of the West Branch of the Davis Stream remains clean & cool for spawning fish and helps keep the waters of Damariscotta Lake cleaner.

This is an all-ages event— interested children are welcome with adult supervision.


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Full Moon Paddle
Jul
10

Full Moon Paddle

Enjoy an evening illuminated by the glow of the full Buck Moon.

Discover a new way of being outside, when sounds become more pronounced and sight takes a backseat to our other senses.

Hike the 1 mile to the pond and our canoes. With a little luck, the full moon will be rising on the far shore as we paddle out into the still, open, pond. The group will take moments of silence to listen for owls, loons and beaver tail slaps, chat as we paddle and revel in the brightness of earth's closest celestial friend.

Make sure you are wearing water-proof or quick-dry clothing; it’s always a good idea to bring layers (a windbreaker or fleece are great options). Try to avoid both cotton and denim as they do not keep you warm once wet and do not dry quickly. Make sure you have sturdy shoes that you don’t mind getting wet and bring your own water bottle. We should be on the water no longer than an hour and a half, and land at the same location we launched from.

All equipment is provided.

Be sure to bring bug repellent and a headlamp.

Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

This program is likely to run at least 2.5 hours.

Rain date: July 11

This is a free program, but registration is required.


Registration

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Jul
19

Naturalist Workshop Series

Join us for ecology exploration at one of Midcoast Conservancy’s 25 diverse preserves.

Search for animal tracks in the snow, learn how Maine mammals move, and discover their hidden habitats. Venture to the pond to check out a beaver lodge and talk about the amazing adaptations of this busy builder. Bring your binoculars to focus on birds and learn to identify those you spy. Examine mosses and lichens of all kinds on rocks, trees, and the forest floor. Delve into the role mushrooms play in the balance of the forest, how they grow, and what kinds flourish locally. Venture to a vernal pool to explore what lies beneath the surface and the importance of these seasonal wetlands. Find a quiet spot under a special tree to sketch the bark or write the feelings of the forest.

Each workshop will offer a different topic to be explored in depth, led by a naturalist but guided by the interests of the group. Some weeks will be at Hidden Valley Nature Center while other weeks walks will take place at one of Midcoast Conservancy’s 25 diverse preserves. 


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Jul
23

Wednesday Wander

Join us the last Wednesday of each month for a guided nature walk at one of Midcoast Conservancy’s diverse preserves. Each walk will be 1-2 miles long and focus on the flora, fauna and landscape of that month’s specific preserve. Grab your curiosity and a friend to come explore a part of the Midcoast you’ve never been before. Or return to one of your favorite preserves to share and learn more about a place you love.

Registration is encouraged but walk-ins are welcome. Well-behaved pets that get along with others are welcome. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring water.

While there is no age limit for this program, children under 18 should be accompanies by an adult.


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Aug
2

Naturalist Workshop Series

Join us for ecology exploration at one of Midcoast Conservancy’s 25 diverse preserves.

Search for animal tracks in the snow, learn how Maine mammals move, and discover their hidden habitats. Venture to the pond to check out a beaver lodge and talk about the amazing adaptations of this busy builder. Bring your binoculars to focus on birds and learn to identify those you spy. Examine mosses and lichens of all kinds on rocks, trees, and the forest floor. Delve into the role mushrooms play in the balance of the forest, how they grow, and what kinds flourish locally. Venture to a vernal pool to explore what lies beneath the surface and the importance of these seasonal wetlands. Find a quiet spot under a special tree to sketch the bark or write the feelings of the forest.

Each workshop will offer a different topic to be explored in depth, led by a naturalist but guided by the interests of the group. Some weeks will be at Hidden Valley Nature Center while other weeks walks will take place at one of Midcoast Conservancy’s 25 diverse preserves. 


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Full Moon Paddle
Aug
9

Full Moon Paddle

Enjoy an evening illuminated by the glow of the full Sturgeon Moon.

Discover a new way of being outside, when sounds become more pronounced and sight takes a backseat to our other senses.

Hike the 1 mile to the pond and our canoes. With a little luck, the full moon will be rising on the far shore as we paddle out into the still, open, pond. The group will take moments of silence to listen for owls, loons and beaver tail slaps, chat as we paddle and revel in the brightness of earth's closest celestial friend.

Make sure you are wearing water-proof or quick-dry clothing; it’s always a good idea to bring layers (a windbreaker or fleece are great options). Try to avoid both cotton and denim as they do not keep you warm once wet and do not dry quickly. Make sure you have sturdy shoes that you don’t mind getting wet and bring your own water bottle. We should be on the water no longer than an hour and a half, and land at the same location we launched from.

All equipment is provided. Be sure to bring bug repellent and a headlamp. This program is likely to run at least 2.5 hours.

Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Rain date: August 10

This is a free program, but registration is required.


Registration

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Aug
16

Naturalist Workshop Series

Join us for ecology exploration at one of Midcoast Conservancy’s 25 diverse preserves.

Search for animal tracks in the snow, learn how Maine mammals move, and discover their hidden habitats. Venture to the pond to check out a beaver lodge and talk about the amazing adaptations of this busy builder. Bring your binoculars to focus on birds and learn to identify those you spy. Examine mosses and lichens of all kinds on rocks, trees, and the forest floor. Delve into the role mushrooms play in the balance of the forest, how they grow, and what kinds flourish locally. Venture to a vernal pool to explore what lies beneath the surface and the importance of these seasonal wetlands. Find a quiet spot under a special tree to sketch the bark or write the feelings of the forest.

Each workshop will offer a different topic to be explored in depth, led by a naturalist but guided by the interests of the group. Some weeks will be at Hidden Valley Nature Center while other weeks walks will take place at one of Midcoast Conservancy’s 25 diverse preserves. 


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Aug
27

Wednesday Wander

Join us the last Wednesday of each month for a guided nature walk at one of Midcoast Conservancy’s diverse preserves. Each walk will be 1-2 miles long and focus on the flora, fauna and landscape of that month’s specific preserve. Grab your curiosity and a friend to come explore a part of the Midcoast you’ve never been before. Or return to one of your favorite preserves to share and learn more about a place you love.

Registration is encouraged but walk-ins are welcome. Well-behaved pets that get along with others are welcome. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring water.

While there is no age limit for this program, children under 18 should be accompanies by an adult.


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Sep
6

Naturalist Workshop Series

Join us for ecology exploration at one of Midcoast Conservancy’s 25 diverse preserves.

Search for animal tracks in the snow, learn how Maine mammals move, and discover their hidden habitats. Venture to the pond to check out a beaver lodge and talk about the amazing adaptations of this busy builder. Bring your binoculars to focus on birds and learn to identify those you spy. Examine mosses and lichens of all kinds on rocks, trees, and the forest floor. Delve into the role mushrooms play in the balance of the forest, how they grow, and what kinds flourish locally. Venture to a vernal pool to explore what lies beneath the surface and the importance of these seasonal wetlands. Find a quiet spot under a special tree to sketch the bark or write the feelings of the forest.

Each workshop will offer a different topic to be explored in depth, led by a naturalist but guided by the interests of the group. Some weeks will be at Hidden Valley Nature Center while other weeks walks will take place at one of Midcoast Conservancy’s 25 diverse preserves. 


View Event →
Sep
20

Naturalist Workshop Series

Join us for ecology exploration at one of Midcoast Conservancy’s 25 diverse preserves.

Search for animal tracks in the snow, learn how Maine mammals move, and discover their hidden habitats. Venture to the pond to check out a beaver lodge and talk about the amazing adaptations of this busy builder. Bring your binoculars to focus on birds and learn to identify those you spy. Examine mosses and lichens of all kinds on rocks, trees, and the forest floor. Delve into the role mushrooms play in the balance of the forest, how they grow, and what kinds flourish locally. Venture to a vernal pool to explore what lies beneath the surface and the importance of these seasonal wetlands. Find a quiet spot under a special tree to sketch the bark or write the feelings of the forest.

Each workshop will offer a different topic to be explored in depth, led by a naturalist but guided by the interests of the group. Some weeks will be at Hidden Valley Nature Center while other weeks walks will take place at one of Midcoast Conservancy’s 25 diverse preserves. 


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Sep
24

Wednesday Wander

Join us the last Wednesday of each month for a guided nature walk at one of Midcoast Conservancy’s diverse preserves. Each walk will be 1-2 miles long and focus on the flora, fauna and landscape of that month’s specific preserve. Grab your curiosity and a friend to come explore a part of the Midcoast you’ve never been before. Or return to one of your favorite preserves to share and learn more about a place you love.

Registration is encouraged but walk-ins are welcome. Well-behaved pets that get along with others are welcome. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring water.

While there is no age limit for this program, children under 18 should be accompanies by an adult.


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Full Moon Paddle
Jun
11

Full Moon Paddle

Feel the glow!

Meet your leaders at the Welcome Center 10 minutes before the official start time so that we can start walking promptly on schedule. Hike the 1 mile to the pond and our canoes. With a little luck, the full moon will be rising on the far shore and we’ll paddle the pond, exploring the wetlands, beaver lodges, and shoreline looking for beaver and otter activity, and listening for loons and owls calling.

Make sure you are wearing water-proof or quick-dry clothing; it’s always a good idea to bring layers (a windbreaker or fleece are great options). Try to avoid both cotton and denim as they do not keep you warm once wet and do not dry quickly. Make sure you have sturdy shoes that you don’t mind getting wet and bring your own water bottle. We should be on the water no longer than an hour and a half, and land at the same location we launch from.

All equipment is provided.

Be sure to bring bug repellent and a headlamp.

Registration is required. This program is likely to run at least 2.5 hours.

Rain date: June 12


Registration

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Naturalist Workshop Series - Bog Exploration
Jun
7

Naturalist Workshop Series - Bog Exploration

Join us for a Bog Exploration at Hidden Valley Nature Center!

Join us for this exploration of Hidden Valley Nature Center’s kettle bog. Formed by the glaciers retreating from Maine, this unique feature on the landscape is home to a diversity of plants and animals including carnivorous plants, birds of prey, and white tailed deer. Learn about this special ecosystem, and what makes this wetland unique and sensitive!

Please meet outside at the Welcome Center promptly at 10:00 a.m. Participants should bring a water bottle, snack if you choose, insect protection, and sturdy walking shoes or boots (depending on recent weather, you might want footwear for muddy trails to the bog.)

And don’t forget to bring your own curiosity and nature detective skills!


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afterschool mountain bike ride
Jun
2

afterschool mountain bike ride

Take to the trails at Hidden Valley Nature Center on this afterschool mountain bike ride. Sarah Plummer, local yoga and outdoor adventure instructor from Maine Outdoor Yoga, will lead this group ride along the trails at HVNC. Participants will learn the basics of mountain biking on this fun and challenging beginner to intermediate ride. 

Please wear sneakers and bring water in a well-fitting backpack. We will provide you with a mountain bike and helmet unless you prefer to ride your own bike and/or bring your own helmet. The group will meet at the Welcome Center at 3 pm and return to the Welcome Center before 4:30 pm. Parents are welcome to check out a bike to ride independently, hike the trails, or leave and return after the program. This program will run rain or shine.

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May
28

Wednesday Wander

Join naturalist Susan Cottle for a walk of spring discovery along the Sheepscot River at Palermo Preserve. May brings a myriad of changes to the woods including the blooming of spring ephemeral wildflowers, new growth on trees, and emerging ferns, mosses, and lichens. 

The group will venture down through the forest to the river, observing the wonders of spring progressing in the forest and the natural features of the river that support one of the most important stretches of salmon habitat in the Sheepscot River watershed. The undercut banks, overhanging vegetation, and submerged logs and rocks in the river create sheltered pools which provide resting places for salmon as they travel to and from their spawning grounds.  

Registration is encouraged but walk-ins are welcome. Well-behaved pets that get along with others are welcome. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring water.

While there is no age limit for this program, children under 18 should be accompanied by an adult.


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afterschool mountain bike ride
May
19

afterschool mountain bike ride

Take to the trails at Hidden Valley Nature Center on this afterschool mountain bike ride. Sarah Plummer, local yoga and outdoor adventure instructor from Maine Outdoor Yoga, will lead this group ride along the trails at HVNC. Kids 8-14-years old will learn the basics of mountain biking on this fun and challenging beginner to intermediate ride. 

Please wear sneakers and bring water in a well-fitting backpack. We will provide you with a mountain bike and helmet unless you prefer to ride your own bike and/or bring your own helmet. The group will meet at the Welcome Center at 3 pm and return to the Welcome Center before 4:30 pm. Parents are welcome to check out a bike to ride independently, hike the trails, or leave and return after the program. This program will run rain or shine.

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Full Moon Paddle
May
12

Full Moon Paddle

Feel the glow!

Meet your leaders at the Welcome Center 10 minutes before the official start time so that we can start walking promptly on schedule. Hike the 1 mile to the pond and our canoes. With a little luck, the full moon will be rising on the far shore and we’ll paddle the pond, exploring the wetlands, beaver lodges, and shoreline looking for beaver and otter activity, and listening for loons and owls calling.

Make sure you are wearing water-proof or quick-dry clothing; it’s always a good idea to bring layers (a windbreaker or fleece are great options). Try to avoid both cotton and denim as they do not keep you warm once wet and do not dry quickly. Make sure you have sturdy shoes that you don’t mind getting wet and bring your own water bottle. We should be on the water no longer than an hour and a half, and land at the same location we launch from.

All equipment is provided.

Be sure to bring bug repellent and a headlamp.

Registration is required. This program is likely to run at least 2.5 hours.

Rain date: May 13


Registration

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Naturalist Workshop Series: vernal pools
May
4

Naturalist Workshop Series: vernal pools

Yay! It’s Vernal Pool season!

Of all the interesting ways to observe the advance of spring, vernal pools are one of the most fascinating. A vernal pool is a temporary woodland pond or small body of water, often overlooked, which plays a central role in the life cycle of many amphibians and turtles and the organisms that rely on them. They have important implications and impacts on local wildlife, outdoor recreation, and forestry operations. We invite anyone to come and learn why vernal pools are so important to protecting Maine’s woodlands.

Participants will learn about the species of frog, turtle, and salamander that rely on vernal pools; learn to identify and count egg masses; and learn about the complex dynamics that make vernal pools so fascinating.

This is an all-ages event—children are welcome with adult supervision. During the event, we will walk approximately 1.5 miles on forest trails, pausing to visit a number of vernal pools.


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Apr
30

Wednesday Wander

Yay! It’s Vernal Pool season!

Grab a friend and join us for a walk at Maguire Preserve to visit a Significant Vernal Pool valued for its high counts of Wood Frog and Spotted Salamander egg masses. Of all the interesting ways to observe the advance of spring, vernal pools are one of the most fascinating. A vernal pool is a temporary woodland pond or small body of water, often overlooked, which plays a central role in the life cycle of many amphibians and the organisms that rely on them. These woodland pools have important implications and impacts on local wildlife, outdoor recreation, and forestry operations. We invite anyone to join Maine Master Naturalists Kit Pfeiffer and Jane Harrison on this walk to discover the magic of Maguire Preserve and its woodland vernal pool.

Wear good hiking shoes or rubber boots and be prepared for mud. Polarized sunglasses are suggested for viewing life below the surface of the water. You may wish to bring water and a snack. 

Registration is encouraged but walk-ins are welcome. Well-behaved pets that get along with others are welcome. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring water.

While there is no age limit for this program, children under 18 should be accompanies by an adult.


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Full Moon Hike at Hidden Valley Nature Center
Apr
12

Full Moon Hike at Hidden Valley Nature Center

Join us for a full moon hike at Hidden Valley Nature Center.

Enjoy an evening illuminated by the glow of the full Pink Moon. Discover a new way of being in the woods, when sounds become more pronounced and sight takes a backseat to our other senses. The group will take moments of silence to listen for owls and nocturnal foragers along the trail, chat as we hike and revel in the brightness of earth's closest celestial friend. 

Meet at the Welcome Center at HVNC; hikers should wear warm clothes and be prepared for mud. Please bring water and a flashlight or headlamp. Your guide will lead the group on a moderate hike of 2-3 miles along some of the many trails at HVNC. We will be out for 2 hours. 

Weather date: April 13

Registration is required and space is limited so sign up today!
Review our refund policy here.


Registration

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Naturalist Workshop Series: poetry is for the birds
Apr
5

Naturalist Workshop Series: poetry is for the birds

Birds have long been a source of inspiration to poets around the world. With April marking the beginning of bird migration season in Maine, what better time to explore our feathered friends through poetry of our own? Join us for this nature poetry workshop at Hidden Valley Nature Center. We'll walk the trails at HVNC, looking and listening for birds. Led by Maine Master Naturalist and author Andrea Lani, the group will talk about birds as symbols, metaphors, and poetic subjects in their own right. Participants will gain inspiration from examples of bird poetry and use the ideas and images they’ve gathered to create poems of their own.  

Andrea Lani is the author of Uphill Both Ways: Hiking toward Happiness on the Colorado Trail. As a Maine Master Naturalist, she teaches nature writing and nature journaling workshops around Maine. Be sure to dress for the weather, including periods of sitting still outdoors, and consider bringing an insulated pad to sit on.


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Full Moon Hike at Hidden Valley Nature Center
Mar
14

Full Moon Hike at Hidden Valley Nature Center

Join us for a full moon hike (or snowshoe, if there is snow on the ground) at Hidden Valley Nature Center.

Enjoy an evening illuminated by the glow of the full Sap Moon. Discover a new way of being in the woods, when sounds become more pronounced and sight takes a backseat to our other senses. The group will take moments of silence to listen for owls and nocturnal foragers along the trail, chat as we hike and revel in the brightness of earth's closest celestial friend. 

Meet at the Welcome Center at HVNC; hikers should wear warm clothes and boots. If there is snow on the ground microspikes or small snowshoes are recommended. Need a pair? Reach out and we can gear you up. Please bring water and a flashlight or headlamp. Your guide will lead the group on a moderate hike of 2-3 miles along some of the many trails at HVNC. We will be out for 2 hours. 

Weather date: February 13

Registration is required and space is limited so sign up today!
Review our refund policy here.


Registration

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Full Moon Hike at Hidden Valley Nature Center
Feb
12

Full Moon Hike at Hidden Valley Nature Center

Join us for a full moon hike (or snowshoe, if there is snow on the ground) at Hidden Valley Nature Center.

Enjoy an evening illuminated by the glow of the full Snow Moon. Discover a new way of being in the woods, when sounds become more pronounced and sight takes a backseat to our other senses. The group will take moments of silence to listen for owls and nocturnal foragers along the trail, chat as we hike and revel in the brightness of earth's closest celestial friend. 

Meet at the Welcome Center at HVNC; hikers should wear warm clothes and boots. If there is snow on the ground microspikes or small snowshoes are recommended. Need a pair? Reach out and we can gear you up. Please bring water and a flashlight or headlamp. Your guide will lead the group on a moderate hike of 2-3 miles along some of the many trails at HVNC. We will be out for 2 hours. 

Weather date: February 13

Registration is required and space is limited so sign up today!
Review our refund policy here.


Registration

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Full Moon Hike at Hidden Valley Nature Center
Jan
14

Full Moon Hike at Hidden Valley Nature Center

Join us for a full moon hike (or snowshoe, if there is snow on the ground) at Hidden Valley Nature Center.

Enjoy an evening illuminated by the glow of the full Wolf Moon. Discover a new way of being in the woods, when sounds become more pronounced and sight takes a backseat to our other senses. The group will take moments of silence to listen for owls and nocturnal foragers along the trail, chat as we hike and revel in the brightness of earth's closest celestial friend. 

Meet at the Welcome Center at HVNC; hikers should wear warm clothes and boots. If there is snow on the ground microspikes or small snowshoes are recommended. Need a pair? Reach out and we can gear you up. Please bring water and a flashlight or headlamp. Your guide will lead the group on a moderate hike of 2-3 miles along some of the many trails at HVNC. We will be out for 2 hours. 

Weather date: January 15

Registration is required and space is limited so sign up today!
Review our refund policy here.


Registration

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Full Moon Hike at Hidden Valley Nature Center
Dec
15

Full Moon Hike at Hidden Valley Nature Center

Join us for a full moon hike (or snowshoe, if there is snow on the ground) at Hidden Valley Nature Center.

Enjoy an evening illuminated by the glow of the full Cold Moon. Discover a new way of being in the woods, when sounds become more pronounced and sight takes a backseat to our other senses. The group will take moments of silence to listen for owls and nocturnal foragers along the trail, chat as we hike and revel in the brightness of earth's closest celestial friend. 

Meet at the Welcome Center at HVNC; hikers should wear shoes with good grips and bring a hiking stick if desired, along with a snack, drink and flashlight or headlamp. Your guide will lead the group on a moderate hike of 2-3 miles along some of the many trails at HVNC. We will be out for 2 hours.

Registration is required and space is limited so sign up today!
Review our refund policy here.


Registration

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Full Moon Hike at Hidden Valley Nature Center
Nov
15

Full Moon Hike at Hidden Valley Nature Center

Join us for a full moon hike (or snowshoe, if there is snow on the ground) at Hidden Valley Nature Center.

Enjoy an evening illuminated by the glow of the full Beaver Moon. Discover a new way of being in the woods, when sounds become more pronounced and sight takes a backseat to our other senses. The group will take moments of silence to listen for owls and nocturnal foragers along the trail, chat as we hike and revel in the brightness of earth’s closest celestial friend. 

Meet at the Welcome Center at HVNC; hikers should wear shoes with good grips and bring a hiking stick if desired, along with a snack, drink and flashlight or headlamp. Your guide will lead the group on a moderate hike of 2-3 miles along some of the many trails at HVNC. We will be out for 2 hours.

Registration is required and space is limited so sign up today!
Review our refund policy here.


Registration

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Full Moon Hike at Hidden Valley Nature Center
Oct
17

Full Moon Hike at Hidden Valley Nature Center

Join us for a full moon hike (or snowshoe, if there is snow on the ground) at Hidden Valley Nature Center.

Enjoy an evening illuminated by the glow of the Super Hunter's Moon. A night when the full moon will be closer to the earth than on any other day of the year and visible from dusk until dawn. Discover a new way of being in the woods, when sounds become more pronounced and sight takes a backseat to our other senses. The group will take moments of silence to listen for owls and nocturnal foragers along the trail, chat as we hike and revel in the brightness of earth’s closest celestial friend. 

Meet at the Welcome Center at HVNC; hikers should wear shoes with good grips and bring a hiking stick if desired, along with a snack, drink and flashlight or headlamp. Your guide will lead the group on a moderate hike of 2-3 miles along some of the many trails at HVNC. We will be out for 2 hours.

Registration is required and space is limited so sign up today!
Review our refund policy here.


Registration

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Race Through the Woods
Oct
6

Race Through the Woods

Join us for the 13th Annual Race Through The Woods trail race on Sunday, October 6, at Hidden Valley Nature Center in Jefferson, Maine.

Racing starts at 9:00AM. Racers will have two course options to choose from: a 13 mile course or a shorter 5 mile distance. (Both share the course with same start time).  The course brings you over steep hills, through the woods, past beautiful ponds and has about 1,000 feet elevation change.

Race fees are $40 for the 13, and $30 for the 5 miler.

Long sleeve technical shirts will be available for purchase with registration, with a limited number available for purchase the day of. Prizes will be given to first place finishers (men and women) and in age categories. Prizes will include a free night stay at one of our Hidden Valley huts and PIE!

We will be pouring beer from Sheepscot Valley Brewing!

Registration IS REQUIRED through our friends at Race Entry and closes one week before race.

REGISTER HERE!

This race is currently capped at 125 entrants, with a waitlist. There will be NO day of registration. 

No refunds, no bib transfers. If you are unable to race, your registration fee will be considered a donation to Midcoast Conservancy.


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Oct
5

GoosePecker Trekker

Join Midcoast Conservancy friends and staff for a hike in the Sheepscot Headwaters in Montville, followed by lunch from the grill and some local beer. Potluck side dishes are welcome; hot dogs, tofu pups and vegetarian mains and chips will be provided by us.

Feel free to skip the hike and join us for lunch at noon if that fits your schedule best. One hike is being offered this year, a two-mile hike led by Bob Kohl, local trail builder extraordinaire, and Midcoast Conservancy Board member Buck O’Herin. The hike goes through areas with beautiful mature forest, part of 1700 acres of contiguous protected land. Hear about the conservation vision for the region and ongoing collaborative work with neighboring Sebasticook Regional Land Trust.

There will be a port-a-potty available.


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