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Our Classes
Into the Forest: Guided Walks
with WorthIt Constance Woodworth
Join us for a guided, nature walk that will encourage you to slow down and reconnect with nature. During each forest bathing walk you'll be invited to engage in activities like silent observation, mindful breathing, and guided reflection, designed to promote relaxation and rejuvenation.
These walks are designed for everyone, regardless of fitness level, and no prior experience is necessary—just a willingness to embrace the calming and grounding benefits of nature. Walks are 15+ unless indicated that it is a family walk. Children over the age of 4 must be registered.
Location: Meet at the Trail Map Kiosk
About the Instructor
Constance Woodworth is a certified Forest Therapy Guide from the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Program based in California and is currently studying to become a Maine Master Naturalist.
Introduction to Plein Air Painting
with Cassie Sano
FREE for members of Viles Arboretum; $35 suggested donation for non-members - which includes a membership to the Arboretum
This two-day workshop introduces participants to the world of plein air painting, whether you're a complete beginner or have some experience.
Plein air painting—the practice of painting outdoors—allows artists to capture the light, color, and atmosphere of a scene in real time. But where do you start? What gear do you need? How do you choose a subject? Should you sketch first or dive straight into painting?
What to Expect
The focus of this class is to introduce participants to plein air painting, how to prepare to paint outdoors, the equipment needed, how to set up in the field and the advantages and challenges that come along with it.
We'll start in the classroom to cover the basics, then head outdoors where participants can simply observe, or paint along with instructor Cassie Sano.
Cassie will go over the steps she takes to start and complete a painting. While she won't focus on a specific medium, participants are welcome to follow using oil and watercolor - or any medium they feel comfortable with.
Materials are not provided. Students are welcome to bring their own supplies based on their planned level of participation. While materials are optional, if you choose to bring your own, here’s what you’ll need:
- If you plan to observe and take notes, bring a notebook and pen.
- If you'd like to start with sketching, bring a dry media notebook, sketching pencils, erasers, and/or markers.
- If you'd like to jump right in, bring a canvas, paints, and brushes.
In addition, participants should bring a snack and lunch. A refrigerator and microwave will be available for those who need it.
About the Instructor
Cassie Sano is a realist painter living in Augusta, Maine She enjoys painting outdoors, when the weather permits, and loves to paint in both oil and watercolor.
Cassie also writes and illustrates picture story books through Maine Authors Publishing and regularly participates in author events throughout Maine. She is the organizer of the Kennebec Valley Plein Air Painters, a member of the River Arts Gallery, the Maine Art Gallery, Boothbay Regional Art Foundation, and the Red Barn Art Gallery in Port Clyde.
She says, “From the time I first held a crayon, I felt a connection to art that was so powerful it was as if my creative spirit had a life of its own.”
Camp Open House
with Education Team
Join us for our Outdoor Discovery Camp Open House!
This is a great opportunity for spring and summer campers and their families to explore the Arboretum, tour our facilities, meet camp staff, and connect with other camp families.
Get the camp experience with hands-on activities!
We'll be serving up hamburgers, hotdogs, chips, and drinks - please us us know about any dietary restrictions or preferences when you register.
Registration is not required but appreciated!
Summer Camp
with Education Team
Ages: 7 - 14
Get ready for a summer of adventure, exploration, and hands-on learning at Viles Arboretum Outdoor Discovery Camp! Designed for ages 7-14, our day camp runs from 9 AM to 3 PM, offering kids the chance to immerse themselves in the natural world through guided activities that spark curiosity and creativity.
Campers will explore diverse ecosystems, hike scenic trails, investigate wildlife, and engage in hands-on science, art, and outdoor skills. Each week features unique themes and activities, from pond dipping and nature journaling to shelter building and botanical discoveries. Led by experienced educators, our program fosters a sense of wonder, teamwork, and a deep connection to the environment.
We believe that outdoor exploration should be accessible to all families, which is why we offer a sliding scale tuition model based on annual household income. The price will be adjusted after completing the registration.
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Up to $30K - $125 per week
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$30K - $75K - $225 per week
- $75K and up - $325 per week
Join us for an unforgettable summer of discovery, adventure, and fun in nature!
Honey Wine Workshop
with Wood Thrush Wilderness
All participants must be 21 years or older. Valid ID is required at check-in.
Discover the ancient art of mead making and transform honey into a decadent, fermented beverage cherished throughout history. Mead, also known as honey wine, is the world’s oldest alcoholic drink. In this immersive workshop, you’ll explore its rich history, learn the basics of brewing and fermentation, and create your own one-gallon batch of mead to take home.
What to Expect
- History & Tasting: Learn about mead's origins and cultural significance while sampling a selection of meads and honeys from across the country. Enjoy about 4-8 ounces of mead throughout the class.
- Hands-On Learning: Step-by-step guidance through the mead-making process, from selecting ingredients to understanding fermentation.
- Tools & Techniques: Learn to measure sugar levels with a hydrometer, determine alcohol content, and practice sterilization and bottling techniques.
Every student will receive the following supplies to continue brewing at home:
- One-gallon glass carboy
- Airlock Hydrometer with a cylinder and brush
- 3-4 lbs. of raw honey and ingredients for a batch of mead
- Detailed directions and a materials list for bottling your finished mead
This class is perfect for beginners and hobbyists interested in home brewing, wine making, or fermentation. Whether you’re curious about mead or looking to refine your skills, this workshop offers a comprehensive introduction to the craft.
Accessibility Information
We aim to make this class as inclusive as possible. Please reach out if you have mobility concerns or need accommodations.
- Location: The venue is wheelchair accessible, with accessible restrooms.
- Seating and Workspace: Tables and chairs are provided
- Physical Effort:Participants will be standing and moving around, with some light lifting and handling of equipment.
- Visual Guidance: Intructions will be provided verbally and visually.
About the Instructor
Wood Thrush Wilderness is an outdoor guiding and educational business that helps people connect more deeply with themselves and the natural world. As Licensed Recreation Maine Guides, we offer guided canoe expeditions throughout the state of Maine. We also offer classes and training in outdoor education, wilderness medicine, and traditional crafts such as basketry.