The Marsh River Preserve in Newcastle will be the kick-off site for a hiking series offered by Midcoast Conservancy between now and Oct. 17. Held every other Thursday, with a few additional hikes on other days, the series will offer participants the opportunity to explore many beautiful preserves in the Midcoast area. Hikes will vary in length and terrain; hike leaders will meet the group at the trailhead at 4 p.m. and plan to have everyone back at their cars no later than 6 p.m. No registration is required. Hikers should wear proper footwear and bring water. To learn more, go to https://www.midcoastconservancy.org/events/hiking-series/

This week’s hike, on May 16, will feature “Looking for Spring” as hikers walk along trails in various stages of bloom. The 70-acre Marsh River Preserve protects over a mile of frontage along the ecologically significant Marsh River. Approximately one mile of trail winds through mixed forests and meanders along beautiful salt marshes offering views across the Marsh River. An interpretive guide which provides information about the ecology, history and geology of the area, is available at the trail kiosk. More information about the preserve, as well as a printable trail map, can be found at https://www.midcoastconservancy.org/preserve/sheepscot-valley/marsh-river-preserve/