Spending active time outdoors is good for individuals and it’s good for families. More and more research is showing that spending a little bit of time being physical outside has significant health benefits for people of all ages. As winter disappears and spring fever sets in let’s take stock of all the upcoming opportunities for outdoor fun and exercise that Midcoast Conservancy has lined up.

If you’re really eager to hit the trails, be sure to sign up for the six-week Trail Run Training Series at Hidden Valley Nature Center (HVNC). Each Wednesday from April 20 to May 25 runners of all levels can join others for a casual, non-competitive trail run. A short course and a longer course will be marked each week, and runners can start anytime between 4:30 and 6 p.m. It’s a great chance to meet other runners, explore the trails at HVNC, and stay committed to six weeks of outdoor exercise. Plus, you’ll get a good jump start on training for the annual Race Through the Woods trail race at HVNC in October.

If you have younger kids at home, ages 10 and 14, make sure to get them signed up for the Canoe and Paddle Board Camp we’re hosting with the Maine Winter Sports Center on June 21-23. Participants will learn the basics of canoeing and standup paddle boarding on Damariscotta Lake. After that, they can all spend the rest of summer on Little Dyer Pond at HVNC, Damariscotta Lake, or even on the Sheepscot River!

All this is above and beyond the everyday opportunities available to all members: access to 60+ miles of trails and opportunities to paddle on Little Dyer Pond, Damariscotta Lake, and the Sheepscot River. Events like these are designed to give you the confidence and skills you need to explore the beautiful places around you. Be sure to check our website http://www.midcoastconservancy.org/events/ for a complete listing of all the upcoming events. Then, get outside!