First 2018 Cherry Blossom Walk

Depending on who you want to believe, peak bloom for the cherry blossoms on the National Mall will either be March 17-20 (National Park Service) or March 23-27 (WaPo). Maybe the safe bet is to have a first look this weekend, and return later for another.

● What we’ll do:

• From the Enid Haupt Garden, we’ll make a 5-mile clockwise loop around the Tidal Basin, which should take around 2-3 hours, depending on breaks and sightseeing stops. The surfaces are paved and pebble, with some steps here and there.

• Google map: https://tinyurl.com/y9m3a353

● How to get there: Metro is recommended, but use the Metro Trip Planner to check for any service disruptions along your route: http://tinyurl.com/hfnqzdv

• From the Smithsonian Metro Station, walk east 0.1 miles on Independence Ave SW toward 12th St SW, turn left and walk north into the garden.

• From L'Enfant Plaza Metro Station, walk north along 7th St SW to Independence Ave, turn left, and walk two blocks west to L'Enfant Plaza. The gate to the Haupt Garden will be on your right.

● What to bring: Water, comfy shoes, and your furry friend if desired. (Leashes, please. Service animals only inside the Smithsonian Visitor Center.) Sunscreen and the layered look are recommended.

● Weather: The forecast is partly cloudy, a high of 62F, and 10-11mph WSW winds. Updates here: http://tinyurl.com/2d9xa6k

● Advisory: As a reminder, this is an adult group, and you are ultimately responsible for your own safety and well-being during events. No one under 18 years of age is allowed at this event, either as members or as guests, to include babies in carriers and/or strollers.

● Administrative stuff: There are restrooms, drinking fountains and a snack bar in the Smithsonian Visitor Center, and public restrooms at several points along our route.

● Notes:

• Live National Mall EarthCam: http://tinyurl.com/peqydcj

• National Cherry Blossom Festival: http://tinyurl.com/h37fr

• Cherry Blossom Watch: http://tinyurl.com/zt97dt6

• Smithsonian Maps and Directions: http://tinyurl.com/lckwzd8