WHEN: April 13 2024, from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM 

WHERE: Otter Creek Gorge, meet at the northern parking lot on Morgan Horse Farm Road 

WHO: Families and anyone excited for signs of Spring 

 COST: Free, register here 

 WHAT: Get hands-on with crawling slimy creatures as we answer the questions: why did the salamander cross the road? 

What in the world is a vernal pool?  For the second year in a row, come and join vernal pool experts Monica Przyperhart and Andrew L’Roe and you’ll learn about the drama unfolding in these ephemeral springtime pools and have the chance to get an up-close look at the breeding amphibians and other creatures that call these pools home, at least for a few weeks. You will also hear about other opportunities to get involved with amphibian conservation in Addison County and beyond. 

We’ll meet at Otter Creek Gorge, at the northern parking lot on Morgan Horse Farm Road. 

From there, we’ll take a pleasant half-mile walk through the woods to the vernal pool. Limited parking is available for those who may not want to do the walk; contact info@maltvt.org. 

CANCELLATION POLICY: MALT operates programs outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. If weather conditions are hazardous (lightning, sustained winds >30m.p.h.), MALT may cancel the program. MALT will communicate about cancellations through our social media channels and email to registered participants.  

WHEN: April 8th, 3:00 – 4:00 pm 

WHERE: MarbleWorks Greenspace 

WHO: This event is appropriate for families and people of all ages. However, it's highly recommended that you bring your own solar eclipse glasses.  

MALT is offering solar eclipse glasses for a suggested donation of five dollars at a variety of locations around Middlebury. You can find them at the Vermont Book Shop, Middlebury Mountaineer, Frog Hollow Bikes, Middlebury Shop, and at MALT (298 Maple Street, Suite 1B in the Historic Marble Works). Glasses will not be provided at the event. 

COST: Free 

REGISTER: Not required; however, if desired, register here  

WHAT: Join MALT for this once in a lifetime experience as we observe a total solar eclipse! MALT will be hosting a viewing of the solar eclipse at Marbleworks GreenSpace, right next to the waterfall. This event will feature an information table about the eclipse and the opportunity to be part of the Eclipse Soundscape Project, a citizen science endeavor focused on recording changes in the soundscape during the eclipse. 

We expect to see the eclipse around 3:30 for one minute of complete totality. Total eclipses are awe-inspiring experiences, and I encourage anyone who missed 2017’s solar eclipse to embrace this opportunity! As observers in the Eclipse Soundscape Project, we will be focusing on the audible landscape of the eclipse.  

CANCELLATION POLICY: MALT operates programs outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. If weather conditions are hazardous (lightning, sustained winds >30m.p.h.), MALT may cancel the program. If that is the case, you will receive notification via email. 

WHEN: Monday. January 22nd from 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM 

WHERE:  Virtual, link here. 

 WHO: This event is for anyone who is curious on how to handle unwelcome animals in the home. 

 COST: Free 

 WHAT:  Hearing chewing sounds coming from inside your walls? Do you hear clumsy plodding in the attic? Is your dog obsessed with a certain area of the floor?  If so, it’s quite possible you have a wildlife conflict.   Unfortunately, wildlife issues are becoming more and more prevalent. As cute as animals are in the wild, when they come into your home, they can be destructive and cause a lot of damage that can be costly to repair.   With 30+ years of experience working with wildlife, we have seen every wildlife issue and know how to humanely reclaim your home.  

 Join HEART Wildlife Removal and learn how to help wildlife in trouble and protect your home, along with other tips in humanely working with our wild neighbors:

 *How to get skunks out of your window well… and how to keep them from falling in! 
*What to do (and NOT do) if a raccoon has broken your gable vent. 
*How to use a pasta colander to save a baby bird!  

WHEN:    Wednesday, December 13th from 7:00 to 9:00 pm 

WHAT: Make a wish cause this December 13th MALT is hosting a viewing of the Geminids meteor shower!  The Geminids are one of the largest meteor showers of the season with an average of seventy-five meteors per hour at their peak. Astronomers theorize 2023’s shower will be particularly impactful due to its proximity to the new moon.   All of this to say, it's going to be a beautiful event with a campfire, hot chocolate, and the wonders of cosmos.  Feel free to bring snacks, refreshments (non-alcoholic), and other fireside activities.  

WHERE: Otter Creek Gorge – enter at the northern parking lot on Morgan Horse Farm Road  
WHO: This event is appropriate for families and people of all ages. Wear appropriate footwear for walking on a grassy and potentially snowy or icy pathway and dress for the weather. There are no bathrooms on site. Please plan accordingly.  

RSVP: Here!
COST:  Free  
 
ALTERNATIVE DATE: In the event of a forecast that doesn’t allow for optimal viewing – clouds, rain, etc. – this event will take place on the Winter Solstice and involve watching Jupiter instead of the meteor shower.  You will be notified via email. If the weather is once again uncooperative on the 21st, this event will be cancelled.  
CANCELLATION POLICY: MALT operates programs outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. If weather conditions are hazardous (lightning, sustained winds >30m.p.h.), MALT may cancel the program. If that is the case, you will receive notification via email.   

WHEN: Saturday, October 14 from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM 

WHERE: Otter Creek Gorge – enter at the northern parking lot on Morgan Horse Farm Road 

WHO: This event is appropriate for families and people of all ages. Wear appropriate footwear for walking on a grassy pathway and dress for the weather. There are no bathrooms on site. Please plan accordingly. 

COST: Free. Made possible by a generous donation from Press Forward PR.

REGISTER: Register here. (registration is not required, but is useful for keeping folks in the loop about weather-related cancellations) 

WHAT: Explore the cosmos with The Vermont Astronomical Society (VTAS) and MALT. It’s hard to match that feeling of wonder you get as you peer through a telescope and see that pinprick of light resolve itself into a planet, or the swirl of a brilliantly lit gaseous nebula. 

Share that feeling of discovery with your friends and family. Come by Otter Creek Gorge, where the incredible astronomers of VTAS will be setting up an array of equipment for observing the universe. 

We’ll get a fire going to keep warm. Feel free to bring snacks and refreshments. 

ALTERNATIVE DATE: In the event of a forecast that doesn’t allow for optimal viewing – clouds, rain, etc. – this event will take place the next day, October 15. If the weather is once again uncooperative on the 15th, this event will be cancelled. 

CANCELLATION POLICY: MALT operates programs outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. If weather conditions are hazardous (lightning, sustained winds >30m.p.h.), MALT may cancel the program. If that is the case, you will receive notification via email. 

WHEN: Saturday, September 30 from 9:00 am – 12:00 pm; this event involves a guided hike, so please arrive promptly.  

 WHERE: Wright Park, Middlebury, VT. Use the parking area on Seymour St. Extension 

 WHO: This event is appropriate for families and people of all ages. Wear appropriate footwear for walking on the forested paths, dress for the weather, and bring water. There are no bathrooms on site. Please plan accordingly. 

COST: Adult: $15 member/$20 non-member, Youth (under 18): $10 member/$15 non-member. Payment is required to hold your spot. You can pay after registering by visiting MALT’s online payment portal (there is a mandatory 4.15% fee for online payment), or by mailing a check to: MALT, PO Box 804, Middlebury, VT 05753. 

REGISTER: Register here. Maximum of 20 people. If you can no longer attend after you register, please contact info@maltvt.org so that your spot can be made available for someone else. Cancellations received at least seven days before the event will receive a 100% refund. 

WHAT: Interested in mushrooms that grow in the wild? Join naturalist, mycologist and professional photographer Meg Madden for a curiosity walk along the Wright Park hiking trails.  

Madden will help you delve into the fascinating world of fungi and how to identify wild mushrooms. As a myco-educator Meg loves to share her knowledge of the natural world, particularly when it comes to all things fungi.  

A Middlebury VT native, Meg can often be found in the forests of her childhood practicing what she calls “mushroom yoga" -- laying on the ground, standing on her head, or balancing precariously on a log -- to capture the perfect snail's-eye view of her favorite photo subject: Fungi! Her colorful, highly detailed mushroom portraits offer an intimate look into the often-overlooked world of these extraordinary organisms. Inspired by the belief that people are more likely to take care of something they love, she finds great joy in facilitating fun and meaningful connections between humans and nature. Meg shares her knowledge and contagious passion for the fantastic world of fungi through visually engaging presentations, mushroom walks, and via her Instagram gallery @megmaddendesign. An advocate for fungal diversity and community science, Meg teaches iNaturalist classes, organizes educational workshops and Bioblitzes, and is compiling an Atlas Of Fungi for the state of Vermont. 

CANCELLATION POLICY: MALT operates programs outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. If weather conditions are hazardous (lightning, sustained winds >30m.p.h.), MALT may cancel the program. If that is the case, you will receive notification via email. In the event of cancellation, program fees will be refunded. 

20th Anniversary!!

The TAM Trek is a trail race and fun run to raise money for the Trail Around Middlebury (TAM) in Middlebury, VT. This trail, a footpath over 18 miles long, encircles the village of Middlebury and links several hundred acres of town land, conserved properties, schools, and other local landmarks. All distances start and finish at Wright Park in Middlebury, Vermont.

The 19 mile race course travels through the towns of Middlebury, Cornwall, and Weybridge, VT. The trail is scenic, rolling, and includes incredible views of the Green Mountains to the east and the Adirondacks to the west.

The 10K course is entirely on single-track trail through Wright Park and the Otter Creek Gorge Loop (trail maps available at www.maltvt.org), with around 400 feet of elevation gain and several slightly technical sections.

NEW THIS YEAR: The 5K course is in Wright Park, single-track, with some fairly technical sections.

The 2 mile fun run is family-friendly and includes walkers and runners alike. The course follows Otter Creek and is entirely on trail. It highlights the best parts of Wright Park and is popular for families with young children and those who enjoy walking. We welcome dogs! YOUTH AGES 12 AND UNDER ARE FREE.

REGISTER HERE

WHEN: Saturday, July 8 from 8:30 PM – 10:30 PM 

WHERE: Otter Creek Gorge, enter at the northern parking lot 

WHO: This event is appropriate for families and people of all ages. There is a ~200yd walk on a mowed path. There are no bathrooms on site. Please plan accordingly. Bring a headlamp. 

COST: Free. Made possible by a generous donation from Press Forward PR.

WHAT: Who owns the night? Bugs and insects do. As the sun sets, these creatures emerge from their daytime shelters, livening up the dark hours with their search for food, mates, or new habitats. 

Join MALT and Dr. Gregory Pask of Middlebury College as we set up a black light and white sheet to lure in the insect residents of Otter Creek Gorge that fill the forest with life all night long. 

You’ll get the chance to take an up-close-and-personal look these nocturnal living things. We might see moths, beetles, and even praying mantises. 

CANCELLATION POLICY: MALT operates programs outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. If weather conditions are hazardous (lightning, sustained winds >30m.p.h.), MALT may cancel the program. MALT will communicate about cancellations through our social media channels. 

WHEN: Friday June 30th from 9:30AM – 12:30 PM 

WHERE: Salisbury Mills Preserve. Park along the street near the intersection of W Shore Rd and Rogers Rd. Parking is Limited. Please carpool. 

WHO: This event is appropriate for families and people 10 years and older. Wear comfortable hiking shoes or boots. Long pants and long sleeves are recommended, wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty! Bring your own work gloves and tools if you have them. 

COST: Free 

REGISTER: Sign up here. 

WHAT: This is an exciting opportunity to help build new trail and restore old trails at the Salisbury Mills Preserve! 

Volunteers will help with corridor clearing with clippers and hand saws, raking leaves and debris off of the trail surface, and using digging tools to create new trail. No experience necessary, just bring yourself and a willingness to learn! After we finish with trail work for the day volunteers will be able to take a closer look at the ruins and learn about the industrial history of the preserve. 

Come join and leave a lasting mark on the new trail network at Salisbury Mills! 

CANCELLATION POLICY: MALT operates programs outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. If weather conditions are hazardous (lightning, sustained winds >30m.p.h.), MALT may cancel the program. MALT will reach out to all registered folks to inform them about cancellations. 

WHEN: Saturday, June 24 from 8:30 PM – 9:30 PM 

WHERE: Otter Creek Gorge, enter at the northern parking lot 

WHO: This event is appropriate for families and people of all ages. There is a ~200yd walk on a mowed path. There are no bathrooms on site. Please plan accordingly. 

COST: Free. Made possible by a generous donation from Press Forward PR.

WHAT: There is a kind of everyday magic in watching fireflies in the summer. Join MALT for a gorgeous evening with friends and family in Otter Creek Gorge. Dr. Gregory Pask of Middlebury College will be there, helping us identify fireflies by counting their flashes, and sharing his knowledge about these creatures that light up the night (and some that don’t light up at all!). 

 We’ll have a camp fire going – feel free to bring camp chairs, blankets, or anything else you need to be comfortable. 

 CANCELLATION POLICY: MALT operates programs outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. If weather conditions are hazardous (lightning, sustained winds >30m.p.h.), MALT may cancel the program. MALT will communicate about cancellations through our social media channels.  

WHEN: Saturday, June 17th from 9:00 am – 11:00 am; guided birding hikes will leave soon after 9:00 am, so please arrive promptly. This event runs rain-or-shine. 

 WHERE: Wright Park, at the parking lot north of Pulp Mill Covered Bridge on Seymour St. Extension. 

 COST: Free, register here (registration is helpful but not required). Made possible by a generous donation from Press Forward PR.

 WHAT: They’re everywhere, but so often overlooked. They come in all colors, shapes, and sizes. Some travel thousands of miles to arrive in our backyards, and others are constant companions, even through the cold winter months. Join Otter Creek Audubon Society for this intro to birding. Take a roughly one-and-a-half hour walk through Wright Park. We’ll break into small groups and work our way down to Otter Creek, discovering the myriad feathered creatures along the way. 

Appropriate for families and people of all ages – due to the rough terrain, strollers are not recommended. Light refreshments provided by MALT and OCAS. Loaner binoculars will be available to those who don't have them. If you have any questions, please contact (802) 989-7115. 

 CANCELLATION POLICY: MALT operates programs outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. If weather conditions are hazardous (lightning, sustained winds >30m.p.h.), MALT may cancel the program. If that is the case, registered participants will receive notification via email. MALT will also share information about cancellations via our social media channels.  

WHEN: Saturday, June 10th from 7:30 - 10:30 am, drop in style so come any time! FYI - birds are more frequently caught in the early hours of the day, so arriving at 7:30 will ensure you get to see more birds. 

WHERE: Hurd Grassland, Weybridge VT - please park along the east side of Meadow Lane 

COST: Free, register here (registration is helpful but not required). Made possible by a generous donation from Press Forward PR.

 WHAT:  MALT welcomes folks for a morning of bird banding with Audubon Vermont Biologist Mark LaBarr. You’ll get the chance to get hands-on with birds while contributing to a better understanding of their life cycles and migration patterns. 

While Mark teaches the art of banding, Otter Creek Audubon Society volunteers will lead activities for families and youth. Light refreshments provided by MALT. 

 CANCELLATION POLICY: MALT operates programs outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. If weather conditions are hazardous (lightning, sustained winds >30m.p.h.), MALT may cancel the program. If that is the case, you will receive notification via email.  

WHEN: Wednesday May 17th from 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM 

WHERE: Wright Park, enter on Seymour St. Extension 

WHO: This event is appropriate for families and people 10 years and older. Wear comfortable hiking shoes or boots. Long pants and long sleeves are recommended, wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty! Bring your own work gloves if you have them 

COST: Free 

REGISTER: Sign up here. 

WHAT: If you have been looking for a way to help out on the TAM this opportunity is for you. No experience necessary, all you need to do is show up with a willingness to work! 

 Volunteers will help with routine maintenance or tasks like clearing storm damage, re-routing trails, or moving gravel. The exact location and nature of the work depends on the weather and the current needs of the TAM. You will receive an email the day before trail work with more information about the location and type of work we will perform. So, come join us for an evening on the trail, build community, and get your hands dirty! Registration is limited, so if you can’t make it, please let us know. 

CANCELLATION POLICY: MALT operates programs outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. If weather conditions are hazardous (lightning, sustained winds >30m.p.h.), MALT may cancel the program. MALT will reach out to all registered folks to inform them about cancellations. 

 WHEN: Saturday, May 13th from 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM (Rain Date May 20th) 

WHERE: Otter View Park, please park efficiently in the parking lot so there is enough room for everyone. Overflow parking can street park nearby. There are no restroom facilities on site, please plan accordingly. BYO water and snacks. 

WHO: This event is appropriate for families and people 10 years and older. Wear comfortable hiking shoes or boots. Everyone should be wearing long pants, long sleeves, and have a pair of work gloves. Please bring trowels, small digging tools, and clippers to aid in removing plants. 

COST: Free 

REGISTER: Sign up here. 

WHAT: Invasive Species are non-native plants that have been introduced to an ecosystem by humans. Often, these plants compete with important native plants for space and resources and can cause issues throughout the ecosystem.  

We are holding an invasive species removal day on May 13th at Otter View Park. Volunteers will receive training on how to identify and remove invasive plant species. There may be several other maintenance needs we will address at OVP, depending on turnout.  

Come help us keep garlic mustard, buckthorn and poison parsnip out of OVP and allow native plants to flourish!  

CANCELLATION POLICY: MALT operates programs outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. If weather conditions are hazardous (lightning, sustained winds >30m.p.h.), MALT may cancel the program. MALT will reach out to all registered folks to inform them about cancellations. 

WHEN: Wednesday May 3rd from 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM 

WHERE: Wright Park, enter on Seymour St. Extension 

WHO: This event is appropriate for families and people 10 years and older. Wear comfortable hiking shoes or boots. Long pants and long sleeves are recommended, wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty! Bring your own work gloves if you have them. 

COST: Free 

REGISTER: Sign up here. 

WHAT: If you have been looking for a way to help out on the TAM this opportunity is for you. No experience necessary, all you need to do is show up with a willingness to work! 

 Volunteers will help with routine maintenance or tasks like clearing storm damage, re-routing trails, or moving gravel. The exact location and nature of the work depends on the weather and the current needs of the TAM. You will receive an email the day before trail work with more information about the location and type of work we will perform. So, come join us for an evening on the trail, build community, and get your hands dirty! Registration is limited, so if you can’t make it, please let us know. 

CANCELLATION POLICY: MALT operates programs outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. If weather conditions are hazardous (lightning, sustained winds >30m.p.h.), MALT may cancel the program. MALT will reach out to all registered folks to inform them about cancellations. 

WHEN: April 29, 2023 from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM 

 HERE: Otter Creek Gorge, meet at the northern parking lot on Morgan Horse Farm Road 

 WHO: Families and anyone excited for signs of Spring 

 COST: Free, register here. Made possible by a generous donation from Press Forward PR.

 WHAT: Get hands-on with crawling slimy creatures as we answer the questions: why did the salamander cross the road? 

 What in the world is a vernal pool?  Come and join the Vermont Master Naturalists and vernal pool monitor Andrew L’Roe to find out. You’ll learn about the drama unfolding in these ephemeral springtime pools and have the chance to get an up-close look at the breeding amphibians and other creatures that call these pools home, at least for a few weeks. You will also hear about other opportunities to get involved with amphibian conservation in Addison County and beyond. 

We’ll meet at Otter Creek Gorge, at the northern parking lot on Morgan Horse Farm Road. 

From there, we’ll take a pleasant half-mile walk through the woods to the vernal pool. Limited parking is available for those who may not want to do the walk; contact info@maltvt.org. 

CANCELLATION POLICY: MALT operates programs outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. If weather conditions are hazardous (lightning, sustained winds >30m.p.h.), MALT may cancel the program. MALT will communicate about cancellations through our social media channels and email to registered participants.

WHEN: Saturday, February 11th. Drop in whenever you’d like between 9:30AM – 12:30PM. Snowshoes must be returned by 1:30PM.

WHERE: Chipman Hill, park at Washington St Ext access

WHO: This event is appropriate for families and people of all ages. Wear clothing for being outside in winter. There are no bathrooms on site - please plan accordingly. Snowshoes will be provided, but BYO if you have them and would prefer to use them. Bring trekking poles if you would like to use them.  

COST: Member adult $5/person, Non-member adult $8/person, youth (13 and under) are FREE

REGISTER: Registration required. Register and pay online. Maximum of 20 people 

WHAT: Have you ever been interested in trying out some snowshoes? They can provide a great way to explore on- and off-trail in the Winter. NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY! Just bring a willingness to have fun in the snow! We’ll meet at Chipman Hill in the morning, give a snowshoe how-to, and then you’ll be able to complete the scavenger hunt at your own pace. This hunt will lead you up Chipman Hill with a list of things to look for along the way. At the end we’ll have a fire and hot cocoa at an overlook. Snowshoes will be provided. Dress warmly, bring a phone or camera to take photos.

CANCELLATION POLICY: MALT operates programs outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. If weather conditions are hazardous (lightning, sustained winds >30m.p.h.), MALT may cancel the program. If that is the case, MALT will send information about cancellations to registered participants via email. 

WHEN: Saturday, January 28 from 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, and 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM (drop in whenever you’d like)   

WHERE: Wright Park, park at end of Seymour St. Extension 

WHO: This event is appropriate for families and people of all ages. Wear clothing for being outside in winter. There are no bathrooms on site. Please plan accordingly. BYO shovel. 

COST: Free 

REGISTER: Register here to stay informed of weather-related cancellation. 

WHAT: Hey this is Simon here – Education Manager at MALT. I’ll be totally honest: I’ve never built a Quinzhee before. But it looks very cool, and I think we can work together to figure it out. In the morning, we’ll use shovels to build a massive dome of snow. After a break to warm up and allow the snow to settle and pack, we’ll carve the dome from the inside-out. When we’re finished, we’ll hopefully have a shelter that can fit four-to-six people inside at a time. At the very least, we’ll have stayed warm and made some great memories. BYO snow shovel and a mug for hot cocoa. Feel free to bring other snow sports equipment – Wright Park has some fantastic opportunities to play outside. We’ll have a fire going to keep warm, and we’ll have hot cocoa. Feel free to bring snacks and refreshments. 

CANCELLATION POLICY: MALT operates programs outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. If weather conditions are hazardous (lightning, sustained winds >30m.p.h.), MALT may cancel the program. MALT will reach out to all registered folks to inform them about cancellations. 

WHEN: Saturday, January 14th. Drop in whenever you’d like between 9:30AM – 12:30PM. Snowshoes must be returned by 1:30PM.

WHERE: Chipman Hill, park at Washington St Ext access

WHO: This event is for Adults 18+.  Wear clothing for being outside in winter. There are no bathrooms on site; please plan accordingly. Snowshoes will be provided, but BYO if you have them and would prefer to use them. Bring trekking poles if you would like to use them. 

COST: Member adult $5/person, Non-member adult $8/person 

REGISTER: Registration required. Register and pay online. Maximum of 20 people. 

WHAT: Come Join MALT for a morning of snowshoeing and exploration on Chipman Hill. Snowshoes will be provided. NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY! Just bring a willingness to have fun in the snow! We’ll meet at the Chipman Hill parking lot in the morning, give a quick snowshoe how-to, then you’ll be able to complete the photo scavenger hunt at your own pace. This hunt will challenge you to be creative and pay attention to your surroundings. Those who complete the scavenger hunt will be entered to win a MALT-swag bag for two, filled with sunglasses, hats, and other gear.  We’ll also have a fire set up at an overlook to enjoy at the end. Hot cocoa will be provided. Please dress warmly, bring a phone or camera to take photos.

CANCELLATION POLICY: MALT operates programs outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. If weather conditions are hazardous (lightning, sustained winds >30m.p.h.), MALT may cancel the program. If that is the case, MALT will send information about cancellations to registered participants via email. 

MALT celebrates the year with a barn party and live music with Nate Gusakov on Wednesday, November 2 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm. Doors open at 5:30 and we'll serve flatbread, side salads, and Cookie Love cookies for dessert. The event is BYOB, feel free to pack a cooler for your drinks. We'll provide seating, musical entertainment, stories and presentation, a warm fire, and a beautiful sunset (we hope!).

The suggested donation for the event is $30 and you can RSVP here and donate your ticket value here.

Those who RSVP will receive an email with more event details and a location address.

See you there!

The MALT Team

WHERE: Wright Park, Middlebury, VT. Use the parking area on Seymour St. Extension.

WHO: This event is appropriate for families and people of all ages. Wear appropriate footwear for walking on the forested paths, dress for the weather, and bring water. There are no bathrooms on site. Please plan accordingly.   

COST: Adult: $15 member/$20 non-member, Youth (under 18): $10 member/$15 non-member. You can pay at the time of the program via cash or check or pay online here.

REGISTER: Register here. Maximum of 20 people. If you can no longer attend after you register, please contact info@maltvt.org so that your spot can be made available for someone else.   

WHAT: Interested in mushrooms that grow in the wild? Join naturalist, mycologist and professional photographer Meg Madden for a curiosity walk along the Wright Park hiking trails.   

Madden will help you delve into the fascinating world of fungi and how to identify wild mushrooms. As a myco-educator Meg loves to share her knowledge of the natural world, particularly when it comes to all things fungi.    

A Middlebury VT native, Meg can often be found in the forests of her childhood practicing what she calls “mushroom yoga" -- laying on the ground, standing on her head, or balancing precariously on a log -- to capture the perfect snail's-eye view of her favorite photo subject: Fungi! Her colorful, highly detailed mushroom portraits offer an intimate look into the often-overlooked world of these extraordinary organisms. Inspired by the belief that people are more likely to take care of something they love, she finds great joy in facilitating fun and meaningful connections between humans and nature. Meg shares her knowledge and contagious passion for the fantastic world of fungi through visually engaging presentations, mushroom walks, and via her Instagram gallery @megmaddendesign. An advocate for fungal diversity and community science, Meg teaches iNaturalist classes, organizes educational workshops and Bioblitzes, and is compiling an Atlas Of Fungi for the state of Vermont.   

CANCELLATION POLICY: MALT operates programs outdoors in a variety of weather conditions. If weather conditions are hazardous (lightning, sustained winds >30m.p.h.), MALT may cancel the program. If that is the case, you will receive notification via email. In the event of cancellation, program fees will be refunded. 

Sunset Picnic, Live Music, and Games in Otter Creek Gorge – Featuring Violinist Nathan L'Heureux 

WHEN: Friday, September 30 from 5:30 – 7:00 pm, drop in style so come any time! Rain date October 13.  

WHERE: Otter Creek Gorge – Park at the northern-most TAM access on Morgan Horse Farm Road in Weybridge. 

COST: Free, donations appreciated. Register here if you’d like to be kept in the loop about weather related cancellations. 

WHAT: Campfire, live music, and a beautiful sunset – these are the ingredients for a magical evening with friends and family.  Join MALT at Otter Creek Gorge for a gorgeous evening (fingers crossed!), featuring violinist Nathan L'Heureux.  Bring a picnic blanket and snacks to enjoy in the field. We’ll supply the campfire, music, and a selection of some of MALT’s finest outdoor games for kids and families to enjoy.  In the event of inclement weather, this event will be postponed until October 13. Please note, there are no bathroom facilities on site. Plan accordingly. 

The TAM Trek is a trail race and fun run to raise money for the Trail Around Middlebury (TAM) in Middlebury, VT. This trail, a footpath over 18 miles long, encircles the village of Middlebury and links several hundred acres of town land, conserved properties, schools, and other local landmarks. All distances start and finish at Wright Park in Middlebury, Vermont.

The 19 mile race course travels through the towns of Middlebury, Cornwall, and Weybridge, VT. The trail is scenic, rolling, and includes incredible views of the Green Mountains to the east and the Adirondacks to the west.

The 10K course is entirely on single-track trail through Wright Park and the Otter Creek Gorge Loop (trail maps available at www.maltvt.org), with around 400 feet of elevation gain and several slightly technical sections.

The 2 mile fun run is family-friendly and includes walkers and runners alike. The course follows Otter Creek and is entirely on trail. It highlights the best parts of Wright Park and is popular for families with young children and those who enjoy walking. We welcome dogs! YOUTH AGES 12 AND UNDER ARE FREE.

REGISTER HERE

They’re everywhere, but so often overlooked. They come in all colors, shapes, and sizes. Some travel thousands of miles to arrive in our backyards, and others are constant companions, even through the cold winter months. Join MALT and Otter Creek Audubon Society for this intro to birding. Take a roughly 1.5 hour walk through Wright Park’s many trails. We’ll break into small groups and work our way down to Otter Creek, discovering the myriad feathered creatures along the way. 

 Appropriate for families and people of all ages – due to the rough terrain, strollers are not recommended. Light refreshments provided by MALT and OCAS. Loaner binoculars will be available to those who don't have them. If you have any questions, please contact (802) 989-7115.

WHEN: Saturday, June 18th from 9:00 am – 11:00 am; guided birding hikes will leave soon after 9:00 am, so please arrive promptly. This event runs rain-or-shine. 

 WHERE: Wright Park, at the parking lot north of Pulp Mill Covered Bridge on Seymour St. Extension. 

 COST: To register for this FREE program, RSVP here

WHAT: We're excited to announce the return of this annual event! MALT welcomes folks for a morning of bird banding with Audubon Vermont Biologist Mark LaBarr. You’ll get the chance to get hands-on with birds while contributing to a better understanding of their life cycles and migration patterns. 

While Mark teaches the art of banding, Otter Creek Audubon Society volunteers will lead activities for families and youth. After the birding and banding ends, there will be a small picnic, so bring some delicious food if you'd like to relax and socialize amidst the bird song. Light refreshments provided by MALT. 

WHEN: Saturday, June 4th from 7:30 - 10:30 am, drop in style so come any time! FYI - birds are more frequently caught in the early hours of the day, so arriving at 7:30 will ensure you get to see more birds. 

 WHERE: Hurd Grassland, Weybridge VT - please park along the east side of Meadow Lane 

 COST: To register for this FREE event, RSVP here

WHEN: Thursday, May 26th from 6:30 - 8:30 pm, drop in style so come any time!  

 WHERE: Otter Creek Gorge – Park at the northern-most TAM access on Morgan Horse Farm Road in Weybridge.

 COST: Free, donations appreciated. Register here if you’d like to be kept in the loop about weather related cancellations. 

 WHAT: Campfire, live music, and a beautiful sunset – these are the ingredients for a magical evening with friends and family. 

Join MALT at Otter Creek Gorge for a gorgeous evening (fingers crossed!), featuring musician Nate Gusakov. Nate started picking clawhammer-style banjo when he was 20 years old, and he still does so with glee whenever the right porch or campfire presents itself. Bring a picnic blanket and snacks to enjoy in the field. We’ll supply the campfire, music, and a selection of some of MALT’s finest outdoor games for kids and families to enjoy. In the event of inclement weather, this event will be postponed until May 26. Please note, there are no bathroom facilities on site. Plan accordingly. 

WHEN: Saturday, May 21 from 7:30 am – 10:00 am 

WHERE: Weybridge, VT – exact location shared after registration 

COST: Free, register here (registration required, limit 20 participants) 

 WHAT: Join Mark LaBarr, Conservation Program Manager for Audubon Vermont, for a spring bird walk and banding demonstration within the

80 acres of the Ganley-Roper land in Weybridge.  Mark will highlight how this land has been managed to support priority bird species and how it connects with other properties in the vicinity. Come learn what you could do on your property, whether half an acre or 100 acres. Mark will also attempt to net and band birds during this workshop. 

 Sponsored by: The Vermont Master Naturalists Program, Middlebury Area Land Trust, and Otter Creek Audubon.  

  This workshop is FREE, but donations to any (or all!) of these organizations are strongly encouraged and appreciated! 

WHEN: Wednesday, May 18th from 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm 

WHERE: Online, via Zoom 

COST: Free, register here (registration required) 

 WHAT: Join Mark LaBarr, Conservation Program Manager for Audubon Vermont, as he explores some of the new tools ornithologists are using to track and manage priority bird populations. Recent technological developments over the last decade have allowed biologists to identify breeding and wintering habitat and track migration patterns of numerous bird species to benefit full life cycle conservation. Mark will highlight the ability to better understand the role of habitat connectivity and biodiversity in our own backyards.  He will draw on examples of Audubon’s work with Golden-winged and Blue-winged Warblers and their hybrids that breed on the Ganley-Roper property and surrounding properties in Weybridge. 

Sponsored by: The Vermont Master Naturalists Program, Middlebury Area Land Trust, and Otter Creek Audubon.  

This workshop is FREE, but donations to any (or all!) of these organizations are strongly encouraged and appreciated!