The changing of the seasons from winter to spring brings maple sugaring.
Each spring, as daytime temperatures rise above freezing and nights remain cold, sap begins to flow through the sanctuary’s sugar maple trees. Staff, volunteers, and visitors take part in tapping trees, collecting sap, and observing the slow process of boiling it down into rich maple syrup. The experience offers a hands-on way to learn about local ecology, sustainable land stewardship, and the cultural history of maple sugaring in the Northeast, all while enjoying the sights, smells, and flavors of early spring at the sanctuary.
The sanctuary offers Public Maple Sugaring Demos on March 7, 14, and 28 from 1:00–2:30 PM for all ages (see details below). These interactive programs explore tapping, sap collection, boiling, and the science behind syrup-making, with roots in Indigenous, colonial, and modern practices.
For a more immersive experience, the Adopt-a-Maple program (see details below) allows participants to tap their own tree with a naturalist, track its progress, and celebrate at Sugarfest on March 21 with pancakes and a jar of Westmoreland Sanctuary syrup.
Adopt a Sugar Maple
Maple Sugaring Demo (for members & non-members)
Adopt-a-Maple
Date: Tree tapping by appointment, Sugarfest on March 21 at 1 PM
Cost: This program is a benefit of the $250 Falcon level membership. Owl members may upgrade by paying the $150 difference.
Ages: All are welcome
Details: Join a naturalist for a hands-on maple sugaring experience and tap your own maple tree. Perfect for families and curious beginners, this program includes all equipment and expert guidance as you learn traditional tapping techniques and the science behind sap flow.
Return throughout the season to track your tree’s progress, then celebrate with a maple sugaring demo and pancakes on March 21 at 1:00 PM and take home your own jar of authentic Westmoreland Sanctuary syrup made from your tree and nearby maples.
