Tourist & Families

Join a guided outdoor experience where you’ll explore, learn, and connect with the natural world—whether you're visiting for the first time or rediscovering it with your family.

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.

OWL (Outdoor Women Lead) Outing Group participant, July 2025

Choose Your Outdoor Experience for Tourists & Families

Designed for visitors and families alike, our guided experiences make it easy to explore, learn, and connect with the natural world.

Private Guided Experiences

Explore Maine with a Registered Maine Guide through a personalized, hands-on outdoor experience.

Designed for families, friends, and small groups (typically 1–10 participants)

Fully customized based on your interests, pace, and experience level

Choose from hiking, paddling, or specialty nature themes

Best for families and groups looking for a unique, tailored outdoor experience

Guided Hikes & Snowshoeing: $200

Explore Maine’s landscapes in every season—from forest trails to snowy winter terrain.

2-hour guided experiences led by Naturalist Educators

Available as hikes or snowshoe outings depending on the season

Interactive, hands-on learning for all ages

Choose from unique themes like:

  • Low-to-the-Ground Wonders (mosses, fungi, forest floor life)

  • Tracks & Sign (animal clues and behavior)

  • All About Birds (perfect for beginners and families)

  • Intertidal Exploration (coastal ecosystems and marine life)

Best for curious explorers who want to learn while hiking or snowshoeing

Canoe Paddling Experiences: $449

Experience Maine’s waterways while learning skills and exploring local ecology.

4-hour guided paddling experience

Instruction included—no prior experience needed

Explore ponds, lakes, or streams while learning about the species that live there

Relaxed, supportive, and beginner-friendly

Best for those looking to try something new or build confidence on the water

Fully Customized Experiences

Have something special in mind? We’ll create it with you.

Flexible format based on your vision

Can include unique topics, longer experiences, or larger groups

Designed to match your interests, group, and goals

Best for visitors looking for a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience

Seasonal Camps & Extended Experiences
(Optional Add-On)

Looking for something longer? We occasionally offer day camps for youth and adults during school breaks.

Hosted at rotating locations within ~60 miles of Ellsworth

Focused on deeper skill-building and connection

Public offerings, priced per participant

Best for those wanting a deeper, multi-day experience

Frequently Asked Questions

Planning your outdoor experience? Here are some common questions to help you get started.

  • Not at all. Our experiences are designed for all skill levels, including complete beginners. We’ll meet you where you are and make sure you feel comfortable and confident.

  • Yes! Many of our experiences are perfect for families and can be adapted for different ages. We aim to create a welcoming, engaging environment for both kids and adults.

  • Expect a hands-on, interactive experience—not just a walk or tour. You’ll explore, observe, ask questions, and learn about the natural world in a fun and engaging way.

  • Most experiences take place within about 30 miles of Ellsworth, including areas like Mount Desert Island, the Schoodic Peninsula, and the Blue Hill Peninsula. The exact location is chosen based on your preferences and goals.

  • Private outings are typically designed for small groups of 1–10 participants. If you have a larger group, we can often accommodate special requests.

  • Our paddling experiences include instruction, guidance, and a supportive environment to help you build skills while exploring local waterways. Some experiences may also include refreshments.

Experience Maine Outdoor School

Book a Private Outdoor Experience for Your Family or Group

Tell us about your group and what you're looking for—we’ll design a personalized outdoor experience just for you.