ALNA — A unique adventure awaits anyone fascinated by trains and a fan of time spent outdoors. History buffs interested in exploring a new slice of local history will also want to get on board, according to Midcoast Conservancy, in a news release.

A years-long partnership between the WW&F Railway and Midcoast Conservancy created the Ride the Rails to Hike the Trails program. After boarding a historic steam engine at Sheepscot Station for a 30 minute trip through the woods of Alna to Trout Brook station, a naturalist from Midcoast Conservancy will take participants on a guided tour of the scenic Trout Brook Preserve. The 1.5 hour hike will lead the group to the banks of Trout Brook for which the 126-acre preserve is named. The hike has some moderate hills and can be muddy if wet, so good hiking footwear is advised. The total distance covered is about 2 miles. Following the hike, the historic steam train will return hikers to Sheepscot Station in style.

This year’s dates are May 31, June 28, August 2 and August 30, all from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased on WW&F Railway’s website (https://wwfry.org/all-activities/ride-the-rails-to-hike-the-trails/) or one can email the railway for more information and help registering (info@wwfry.org).

A portion of the ticket price includes a donation to help further the mission of Midcoast Conservancy.

Midcoast Conservancy is a vibrant regional land trust that works to protect vital lands and waters on a scale that matters and to inspire wonder and action on behalf of all species and the Earth. The organization works throughout the Sheepscot River, Medomak River, and Damariscotta Lake watersheds. Midcoast Conservancy manages over 16,000 acres, including 55 preserves and 100 miles of trails; and Hidden Valley, a preserve with cabin rentals and a low-impact forestry program. Community members can get involved in the organization’s work as volunteers with water quality monitoring, habitat restoration, fish passage projects, forestry, or outdoor recreation and education. For more information, go to www.midcoastconservancy.org or call (207) 389-5150.