Viles Arboretum Stroll (Augusta)

This botanical garden devoted to trees yields many interesting and unusual views. You'll see everything from different tree collections to wetlands and sculptures. For a preview, see the attached photos.

We'll take the Outer Loop trail, which is at least a few miles -- but we can stop to look at the sculptures in the Inner Loop beforehand. We'll start and end along mowed fields, with a forested section and wetland boardwalk in between. It's mostly flat, but there's a small grassy hill near the end. Except for some interconnecting trails, it's fairly well-marked.

We'll start at the trailhead sign to the right of the Visitor Center and the parking lot.

Length: About 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the pace. Lunch is an option afterward.

Where we'll meet: Near the front of the blue Visitor's Center building, which will be closed.

Notes:

• The trail is mostly grassy; the most traveled paths are mowed regularly. Please dress/prepare appropriately (repellent/insecticide, etc.) for the terrain, including proper footwear.
• The Arboretum is fairly popular; parking might be limited there (roughly 25 spaces). The commuter lot at the intersection of Piggery Rd. and Stone/Hospital St. has 60 spaces -- about a five-minute walk away. If you live nearby, consider walking or carpooling.