Memorial Day Weekend National Mall Monuments & Memorials (Rating: D)

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike.

6.8 miles with 127 feet elevation gain. Let's celebrate Memorial Day weekend by hiking to see some of the wonderful monuments and memorials on and around the National Mall.

The National Mall in DC is full of many beautiful monuments and memorials. One could spend many days exploring them all. On this trek, we will focus on the National Mall and Tidal Basin area

The pace will be about 2.0-2.5 mph to allow time to enjoy the sights, take photos, and reflect on our national history as we honor the fallen.

We are meeting at the Smithsonian Castle Haupt Garden. I'll be in the back (south side) of the Castle at the Haupt Garden sitting on a bench enjoying the view, so find me thereabouts. This area faces Independence Ave.

Our trek will take us to a number of locations including NMAI Native American Veterans Memorial, Eisenhower Memorial, Ulysses Grant Memorial, Peace Memorial, National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden, Washington Monument, WWII Memorial, Constitution Gardens, Vietnam Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Korean War Memorial, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Franklin Roosevelt Memorial, Thomas Jefferson Memorial.

Best way to get to the Smithsonian Castle:
Metro: Best option -The Smithsonian Castle is very close to the Smithsonian Metro Station (see https://goo.gl/maps/aT5Y6Wwte7P2), be sure to exit to the National Mall side.
Alternatively you can go to the L'Enfant Metro.
Another option is the National Archives metro which is a fairly short walk to the Castle.
If you would really rather drive, there is metered street parking available both on Jefferson Dr. (on the front side of the castle) or the Haupt Garden side at 1050 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20560. Please note that parking can be difficult to find on a nice weekend day.

There are several public restrooms along our route.

Bring some hydration and snacks as you desire. The route is basically level. Most of the hike will be on paved surfaces so wear comfortable walking shoes.

Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy NOTE: There may be some restrictions regarding dog access such as inside the Lincoln & Jefferson Memorials, so please check in advance of bringing your dog. They are certainly welcome outside.

Meet at the Castle 15 minutes early to allow everyone to be signed in and get ready to hike at 10:00am.

We will plan on an optional rehydration after the hike for those interested.

Any questions, please message me here or text/call @202-528-0456. If you text me, please include your name.