Sunday, October 18, 2026 · 1:00 PM
Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary — 113 Goodnow Rd., Princeton, MA
October at Wachusett Meadow puts the trails in their most vivid form, as maples, oaks, and birches transform the landscape into a canvas of red, orange, and gold. On this family hike, a naturalist leads you through the sanctuary to discover why trees change color in fall and what this annual shift means for the wildlife and ecosystem around you. From the chemistry behind the colors to the cues that trigger the change, this walk will show you how to read a forest in its most expressive season. Please bring a water bottle and dress for the weather. Sturdy footwear appropriate for uneven terrain is recommended. Expect to hike 1 to 2 miles over uneven terrain.