Events - Event View

Join our members Kathy and Laura on a walk through the National Arboretum’s Azalea Collections! Witness one of Washington's premier spring attractions: thousands of azaleas covering the flanks of Mount Hamilton in a blaze of color. The first warm days bring out the flowers, and the slopes take on a surreal, almost luminescent glow. Few shrubs have more impact on the spring landscape than azaleas.

The best way to see this collection is on foot. A network of rustic woodland trails follows the contours of Mount Hamilton and allows you to view the blossoms at close range. Optional: If you want a bit of exercise, you can join the group on the trail to the top of Mount Hamilton, one of the highest points in the District of Columbia. At the elevation of 240 feet above sea level, you’ll be treated to a view of the Capitol framed by trees.

While peak bloom usually takes place around the end of April, many azaleas are in bloom long after and there are usually some azaleas in bloom from early April until June.

We'll meet at the Administration building (visitor's center) near the R st. entrance (2400 R St. NE) and walk over together.