Coastal Rivers Conservation Trust will host a free guided hike along the River~Link Trail on Friday, Oct. 9, from 2 to 5:30 p.m. This three-hour excursion offers community members an opportunity to explore one of the region’s largest remaining blocks of intact conserved land, which serves as a crucial habitat and corridor for native wildlife including moose, deer, bobcats, and bears.

Led by Coastal Rivers naturalist Sarah Gladu, participants will trek along forest paths and historic farm roads, traverse the slopes of Edgecomb’s Mount Hunger, and cross scenic woodland streams. Throughout the walk, hikers will learn about regional ecology, search for native plant species like rattlesnake plantain, and look for active signs of local wildlife.

For this five-mile, one-way walk, hikers will meet at the River~Link North trailhead on River Road in Newcastle, located just south of the Dodge Point parking area on the opposite side of the road, before carpooling to the McKay Road trailhead to begin the route.

The program is free and open to the public, though registration is required. Participants should wear sturdy walking shoes or boots and warm layers, and bring their own water and snacks. Tick precautions and post-hike checks are strongly encouraged.

To learn more or register for the event, visit coastalrivers.org/events.