Summer 2025 at the Preserve: Explore, learn & connect

Photograph by Nikolai Fox

This summer, the Preserve invites you to immerse yourself in a diverse array of activities that celebrate the natural beauty and rich history of Mount Desert Island. From serene garden strolls to engaging educational walks, there is something for everyone to enjoy. 

All activities require registration for all membership levels.

Click to register

Experience the Gardens 

• Asticou Azalea Garden Walk & Talk: Join Garden Manager Mary Roper on July 30 for an insightful tour, delving into the garden's history and horticultural practices. This event is open to Forget-Me-Not level members and above.  

  
  

• Thuya Garden Border Gardens Walk and Talk: Join Head Gardener Wendy Dolliver on August 21 for an exploration of Thuya Garden's vibrant border gardens, discussing design, history, and horticultural practices. This event is open to Forget-Me-Not level members and above.  

• Evenings at the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Garden: Enjoy the tranquility of early evening visits to this historic garden on select dates in July and August. Lily, Trillium, and Birch members are welcome to these events.  

Discover the Natural Lands 

• Loon Watching at Little Long Pond: Observe a pair of common loons as they nest and (if all goes well) rear their chicks during a series of three field walks throughout the summer. These walks offer a unique glimpse into the ecology of these fascinating birds.  

• What goes into Trail Building? Get behind the scenes look at the art and science of building trails at the Preserve with Land Steward Ed Hawes on July 9. 

• Forest Ecology, Adaptation and Coevolution on July 10. Join renown ecologist Tom Wessels on a field walk at Little Long Pond natural lands to learn about forest ecology, species adaptations, and coevolved relationships at Little Long Pond.

• Native Ferns Walk: Walk with Tate Bushell on July 16 as he identifies 12 species of ferns at Little Harbor Brook.  

• Tree & Shrub Identification Walk: On July 23, explore the diversity of trees and shrubs in the Preserve's natural lands, learning how to use field guides effectively.  

• Little Long Pond Ecology Paddle: Experience Little Long Pond from the water! On August 13 bring your own kayak, paddleboard, or canoe, paddle, and life vests. Discover the flora and fauna that live in and around Little Long Pond.  

• Q&A Hike with Director of Natural Lands: Engage with Tate Bushell on August 27 during an informal walk around Little Long Pond, discussing land management practices and conservation efforts.  

Enjoy Traditional Experiences 

• Carriage Rides: Experience the charm of traditional horse-drawn carriage rides along the Preserve's roads on select Thursdays in July and August. These rides are available to Dahlia level members and above.  

For a complete list of activities, dates, and registration details, please visit our 2025 Activities page. We look forward to welcoming you to the Preserve this summer! 

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