Signs of the Seasons Walk: Green Spring Gardens, Alexandria

COST: Green Spring has a minimal parking fee (~$2) which we will collect together because they consider us a “group” with different fee rules. Therefore, DO NOT put parking fee in parking lot collection box. Instead, please bring some cash for the GROUP fee (dollar bills or a fiver) to our start point.
DESCRIPTION:
Join us on a slowish walk over gentle hills with stops (up to two miles in about two hours) at Green Spring Gardens, Alexandria, to enjoy the waning wonders of winter (and even last autumn) and the signs of spring.(Unfortunately, the mulched trails and slopes are not wheelchair accessible nor suitable for those with walking difficulties.) Experience nature in a leisurely way, and awaken your senses. Before trees leaf out, we still get our longest scenic views, evergreens pop, and groups of bare trees are like sculpture gardens. Delight in the rush of spring water and colors and textures of early flowers. In the Glass House conservatory, preview what will become the colorful late-spring planted gardens.
WHAT WE'LL DO:
We will meander up to 2 miles in about 2 hours within Green Spring Gardens (with opportunities to stop, engage and wonder) and end up back at the visitors center.
YOUR GUIDE: Adrienne Betancourt is an educator (with a career in adult education and college programs.) She completed the Maryland Natural Naturalist 60-hour course and has continued to study natural history, with experience leading programs and walks for kids, families, and adults.
MEETING POINT: Drive to : 4603 Green Spring Rd, Alexandria, VA 22312 Meet at 10:30 AM for a short introduction (that is, OUTSIDE main door of the Visitor's center in view of reception desk and restrooms and water inside). We start walking at 10:45 AM.
PARKING: Medium-sized lot available. But do NOT put fees into parking box slots. Instead hold onto your cash for when we collect the required GROUP fee, please.
WEATHER: Steady rain cancels event. We will add updates as needed.
PREPARATION:

• Sturdy comfortable footwear
• Hiking poles (optional)
• Comfortable layers
• Water!
• Snack and/or lunch if desired
• Backpack
• Sunblock
• Bug spray
• Optional: bring binoculars and your charged up cell phone for taking photos and using nature apps.

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