With the coming of autumn, September typically brings some very comfortable hiking weather.  To make the most of that, consider joining the Midcoast Conservancy’s Wednesday Wander on Sept. 4 or Saturday Saunter on Sept. 14.  Both walks will be leisurely, start at 10 a.m., and have one if not two Maine Master Naturalists to lead the group and talk about what participants notice and wish to discuss.

On Sept. 4, the group will be ambling along the west side of the West Branch of the Sheepscot River at the Whitefield Salmon Preserve. This is a particularly lovely stretch of the river, with ample opportunity to be close to the water.  Maine Master Naturalists Susan Cottle and Mary Ellen Dennis will be ready to talk about the Sheepscot’s water quality and the ways that quality affects not only myriad plants and animals, but people as well. The group will be meeting at the parking area at the trailhead on the North Howe Road, which is reachable only from the north, from Routes 17 and 32. 

On Sept. 14 the hike will be at the Marsh River Preserve in Newcastle. Protecting 5,500 feet of frontage along the Marsh River, this site offers a mile of woodland trail with beautiful views of the river and salt water marsh. Such marshes are important systems for filtering water, controlling flooding, capturing carbon, and providing habitat for a variety of birds and other wildlife. What will the hikers see on an early autumn walk? Come join a Maine Master Naturalist for a leisurely walk to find out.  Meet at the trailhead, located in a cul-de-sac at the end of Eagle Point Road.  

All are welcome on these hikes and encouraged to wear good hiking shoes or boots. To learn more about the preserves themselves, check out www.midcoastconservancy.org. And stay tuned for the last wanders/saunters of the warm weather season in October—they’ll take participants to some beautiful hills and ledges with spectacular views.   

Anyone with questions about the hikes or about Midcoast Conservancy’s recreational programming can email landmcc@midcoastconservancy.org.  Hope to see you on the trails!