Private Guided Experiences
Hike - Paddle - learn
“If you think you already know a lot about nature, [a MOS guide] is sure to amaze you with things you never knew. They encourage wonder and curiosity and always make everyone (children and adults) feel valued and welcome. ”
MOS Registered Maine Guides and Naturalist Educators specialize in hands-on exploration for all ages. Our private outings are perfect for families and groups of friends seeking a unique and immersive outdoor experience. Our outings are for 1-10 participants unless otherwise noted or by special request. All outings can be further customized to suit the ages, abilities, and interests of your party.
Prices are estimated for outings within 30 miles of Ellsworth, which includes Mount Desert Island, the Schoodic Peninsula, and the Blue Hill Peninsula. (Please note that we do not provide guided experiences within Acadia National Park.) The exact location of your outing will be determined based on the information you provide in our inquiry form.
2-hour hike/snowshoe: $200.
Pick a Theme:
Low-to-the-ground Wonders - Learn about the species that make up our forest floor, including fungi, mosses, lichens, and ferns.
Fog Ecology - Learn what makes our coastal microclimate unique, including facts about fog and damp coastal weather and the impact on ecosystems.
Botanical Time Travelers - Learn about the “living fossils” that surround us, including horsetail, ferns, and clubmosses.
Nature Observation Skill-Build - Hone your observational skills through mindful attention and introspection to build a greater appreciation and understanding of phenology.
Tracks & Sign - Learn what animals leave behind and what we can learn from those signs about survival and adaptation.
All About Birds - Build birding skills and superpowers that allow us to know some bird secrets just by looking at them (ideal for families or people new to birding).
Intertidal exploration - Learn about our local intertidal zones, including tides, marine species, and seaweed ecology.
4-hour canoe paddling: $449
For up to 7 participants and includes refreshments
Come experience the beauty and peace of our local ponds, lakes, or streams while learning about the species that call those places home. Any canoeing experience level welcome as instruction to help you develop your paddling skills is included.
Completely Customized Outing: Pricing Varies
Got something else in mind? Please fill out our form, and indicate that you would like something extra special. We pride ourselves on program customization and can focus on a different topic, accommodate a larger group, or anything else you may have in mind!
Looking for a longer experience? Stay tuned for our Day Camps for either youth or adults. These are scheduled during school breaks at pop-up locations within 60 miles of Ellsworth. Public and priced per person.
How far is Ellsworth from where I'm staying? Map it out here so you know what your drive to your guided experience would be like. Maine is bigger than most people think!