WALDOBORO and PALERMO — Midcoast Conservancy invites all wandering and sauntering nature lovers to join in the Wednesday Wanders and Saturday Saunters guided hike series to explore Midcoast Conservancy’s preserves, from popular destinations to hidden gems, according to the Conservancy, in a news release.

Volunteer naturalists will lead participants on a weekly stroll through the beautiful forests, fields, wetlands, and salt marshes of Midcoast Maine from May to October. Throughout the season, the groups will wander through preserves and along trails while observing and learning about the natural world around them.

The first two hikes will be in early May.

On Wednesday, May 1, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Maine Master Naturalist Susan Cottle will help hikers to look for wildflowers, emerging ferns, and other springtime treats at the Goose River Peace Corps Preserve in Waldoboro.

On Saturday, May 4, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., guides Cottle and Mary Ellen Dennis will take attendees for an easy hike at the Palermo Preserve in Palermo to look for various signs of spring, including wildflowers, but also to spend time along the Sheepscot River learning about water quality, sea run fish coming upstream, and more. 

These guided hikes are free to attend, but registration is encouraged. To learn more, and see the full schedule of hikes, go to https://www.midcoastconservancy.org/wednesday-wanderers-series.