Programs
Get the Latest on Foundation Events & Programs
FREE Nature Education
Explore upcoming programs organized and supported by the Highlands Biological Foundation. All of our programs are free and designed for a variety of ages and interests, from family-friendly activities and programs for kids and teens to offerings geared toward adults. Some programs require registration, while others are open to all. Check each program listing for details and registration information.
Upcoming HBF Programs
Click HERE to view full Station + Foundation Calendar.
Intro to Backyard Birding
Date: Friday, September 18
Time: 9:00 – 10:00 AM
Location: Sto Pavilion, 111 Lower Lake Rd
Leader: Maddie Wikstrom
FREE | Designed for Ages 18+
Do you have an interest in birding but aren't sure how to get started with this popular pastime? This program is for anyone who wants to learn the basics of birding and discover how easy it can be to get started. Join Maddie to learn about entry-level gear, bird ID apps, and tips and tricks for identifying birds and getting started with this accessible and inexpensive hobby. This program is geared toward adults, but kids and teens who are motivated to start birding are also welcome.
NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Hawk Hike with Maddie
Date: Wednesday, September 23
Time: 9:00 – 12:00 AM
Location: Whiteside Mountain Trail, Parking Lot 91-170 Deville Dr
Leader: Maddie Wikstrom
FREE | *Ages 18+ | Registration Required
Join Maddie on an interpretive hike up Whiteside Mountain in search of our resident Peregrine Falcons! While wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, there is always a chance we may encounter a variety of migrating birds and other resident animals commonly seen in the Highlands area. Along the way, we’ll make observations, ask questions, discuss our findings, and work together to identify our unknown encounters.
*For this program, participants must be at least 18 years of age and able to hike approximately 2.5 miles over potentially uneven terrain, with about 550 feet of elevation gain and loss. We’ll take short breaks along the way and stop at several overlooks once we reach the top. Please bring plenty of water and snacks, wear proper clothing and footwear for hiking, and bring binoculars if you have them. A backpack for carrying your items is recommended.
Transportation and gear will not be provided. Please plan to arrive a few minutes early, and be aware of a $2 parking fee as required by the Forest Service. We will begin the hike promptly at 9 am.
Morning Meditation & Mindfulness
Date: Friday, September 25
Time: 9:00 – 10:00 AM
Location: Sto Pavilion, 111 Lower Lake Rd
Leader: Maddie Wikstrom
FREE | Designed for Ages 18+
Join us for a calm and grounding morning to start your day off right. During this hour-long program, we will take a few quiet moments to breathe deeply, gently stretch our bodies, and explore ways we can practice mindfulness during this season of change.
NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Surprising Skulls
Date: Saturday, September 26
Time: 10:00 – 12:00 AM
Location: Sto Pavilion, 111 Lower Lake Rd
Leader: Alex Waite
FREE | All Ages | Registration Required
Ever stumbled across a skull while out on a stroll and wondered what it can tell you? Join Alex for a brief introduction to the fascinating world of bone science! Bring your questions and any skulls you’d like to have identified.
Program Leaders
Maddie Wikstrom
Education Specialist
Manages Nature Center + Volunteers
Maddie Wikstrom joined the Highlands Biological Foundation team in 2025 as an Education Specialist, developing and leading programs that connect people with the natural world of the Southern Appalachians. Originally from Minnesota, she holds a B.S. in Parks and Recreation Management and an M.S. in Experiential and Outdoor Education from Western Carolina University. Her background includes outdoor education, wilderness therapy, environmental stewardship, backcountry guiding, and field-based education. Maddie is a Wilderness First Responder, Environmental Educator of North Carolina, and Leave No Trace Trainer. She has lived and worked in Western North Carolina since 2016 and enjoys exploring the region's diverse landscapes.
Contact: maddie@highlandsbiological.org
Alex Waite
Education Specialist
Manages Nature Camps + Outreach Programming
Alex Waite joined the Highlands Biological Foundation team in 2026 as an Education Specialist, leading Nature Camps and outreach programs. Originally from the Cleveland, Ohio area, Alex first discovered the Highlands region while working seasonally with the Foundation in 2024. He holds a B.S. in Environmental and Field Biology and is a Certified Interpretive Guide through the National Association for Interpretation. Alex is passionate about connecting people with the natural world, with a particular interest in insects and their important role in our ecosystems.
Contact: alex@highlandsbiological.org
Other FREE Nature Programs from HBF:
Registration
Some Foundation programs require registration through UltraCamp. See the instructions below for help with registering.
How to set up an UltraCamp account:
Click here to log-in and get started!
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STEP 1
Create Your Account
STEP 2
View the "My Account" Page
STEP 3
Add Account Members
Add yourself (adult/parent/legal guardian) as the primary account member, then add other family members to the account.
*NOTE: You do not need to fill out pick-up authorizations or alternate contacts if you are only registering for our general programming. Those sections are specifically for summer camps. During regular programs, children must be accompanied by an adult.
How to register in UltraCamp:
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After you have created your account:
STEP 1
Click "Reservations"
STEP 2
Click "Explore Sessions" to view upcoming programs
Note: Registration for Nature Center Nights programs open 2 weeks prior to the event.
PLEASE NOTE: These free events have limited space. If you’re no longer able to attend, please let us know as soon as possible so we can offer your spot to someone else. Thank you for helping us make these programs available to as many people as possible.
Please email marissa@highlandsbiological.org with any changes.
Funded by
Highlands Biological Foundation
These programs are FREE and made possible by the Highlands Biological Foundation.
