While on a gorgeous stroll past dogwoods, summersweet, alders, and mountain laurel, and with views of a wide marsh pond and a boulder-strewn hillside, Professional photographer Tony Gale will help participants look at landscape photography with a discerning eye, encouraging them to be thoughtful about subject matter, areas of focus, and composition. No previous photography experience needed! Bring whatever camera you have — digital, smartphone, etc.!

Enjoy a peaceful walk through the open fields and woods of Couch Hill Preserve, illuminated by the full sturgeon moon. We will identify and enjoy the sounds of nocturnal wildlife. To enjoy this night walk to the fullest, we will only use the light of the moon to guide us. 

The annual Summer Celebration returns!

Join local butterfly expert Victor DeMasi for a walk through robust butterfly habitat—passing by ponds and wetlands and diverse wildlife. This is an opportunity to surround yourself with nature and learn firsthand about the beautiful pollinators that support the ecosystems right in our backyard.⁠

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Enjoy a group hike at Gallows Hill Natural Area. We will wind our way over trails with names reminiscent of Redding’s early history — Gallows Hill being the site of a patriot encampment during the American Revolution — under the canopy of a hemlock grove and past gnarly mountain laurel. Time permitting, we may ascend to The Noose, at a rocky height of more than 600 feet.

Learn from a panel of experts during an interactive session about the health of our woodlands, wildlife, and insects — and how to better protect open space.