A Year of Exploring Together
Some of our favorite mornings this year were spent on the second Wednesday of the month, peering at tracks, flipping stream rocks and asking “what is that?” alongside our neighbors. We’re thrilled to share that the High Peaks Naturalist Series is coming back for a second year in 2027, with twelve new programs led by volunteer Maine Master Naturalists Darin Schwartz and Vicky Charbonneau.
Each program runs from 10 AM to noon on the second Wednesday of the month. Come to one, some or all of them, based on your interests and your calendar. Along the way, Darin and Vicky share the tips and tricks that will make you a better naturalist on your own walks.
The series follows the seasons. We’ll read animal tracks in the winter snow, learn how trees and insects make it through the cold, and welcome spring as wetlands and woods come back to life. Summer brings birds, streams and the creatures that live in them, and fall turns our attention to plants and the landscape itself. Programs move between trails, conserved lands and a local library across the High Peaks Region, so each month offers a new place to explore. The full schedule, with dates and directions, is on the registration page.
Programs are designed for adults and older teens of all experience levels. Outdoor programs cover real trail terrain, so dress for Maine weather and wear sturdy footwear.
Meet Your Guides
Darin and Vicky bring a love of the outdoors and a gift for sharing it to every program.
Darin S. Schwartz, PhD, Maine Master Naturalist
Darin grew up exploring the Appalachian Mountains and brought that love of the outdoors with him to Maine over a decade ago. A retired U.S. Army Special Operations officer, he graduated from the Maine Master Naturalist Program in October 2025. Darin founded the Nancy L. Schwartz Foundation, through which he volunteers to help others connect with and learn about the natural world. When he’s not leading programs, you’ll find Darin hiking, camping, photographing wildlife, SCUBA diving or spending time outdoors with his family.
Vicky Charbonneau, Maine Master Naturalist
Born in Canada, raised in Maine and well traveled through the Army, Vicky has always loved exploring the outdoors. She and her husband recently moved to the High Peaks region to reconnect with the mountains she loved as a teenager, a passion she’s now passed on to her own kids. As a Maine Master Naturalist, Vicky hopes to inspire better environmental stewardship so future generations can enjoy nature’s beauty. When she’s not working, you’ll find her hiking, mountain biking, snowshoeing or skiing.
How to Join Us
Free, with a suggested donation. The series is free and open to everyone. We suggest a $5 donation per program, which helps keep programs like this one free and accessible. Every gift, of any size, is appreciated.
Registration opens one month at a time. Each program has room for 15 people, and preregistration is required. This year, registration for each program opens about four weeks ahead, right after the previous month’s program. That way, you can sign up for the dates you know you can make, and everyone gets a fair chance at a spot. Mark your calendar with the dates that interest you, and watch our e-newsletter and social media for “registration is open” announcements each month.
Attendance policy. Because seats fill quickly and there’s often someone on the waitlist hoping to join, we’re introducing an attendance policy. If your plans change, email us at least 24 hours ahead so we can offer your spot to someone else. If you cancel or miss two programs, you’ll be on the waitlist for the rest of the year. Programs that High Peaks Alliance cancels for weather don’t count.
A big thank-you to Darin and Vicky for sharing their time and knowledge, and to our partners at Phillips Public Library and Mt. Blue State Park for welcoming us.
Registration for the January 13 program opens 12/1. We can’t wait to explore with you!
