Early Spring Hike in Arnold Arboretum

A fun and fascinating time was had by all with our early spring walk through the Arnold Arboretum in Jamaica Plain!  Though skies were gray and there was a little bit of precipitation, we managed to walk the entire circumference of the preserve, ascending Peter's and Bussey Hills and some of Hemlock Ridge.  We had some great views of the Boston skyline from Peter's Hill, after rambling thru a nearby ancient Colonial burying ground where there is a mass grave of soldiers from the American Revolution.  Of course, it being an arboretum, we viewed many of the magnificent specimen trees and observed the nascent signs of spring with catkins, scilla and snowdrop flowers, and flowering cornelian cherry trees.  After our roughly 3 1/2 mile walk, we re-grouped at the museum building and a group of us meandered over to bustling Jamaics Plain Center where we schmoozed over delicous Thai food at Wonder Spice.  We're already looking forward to the next hike together in the Arnold Arboretum to see what nature will have to show us!    

You won't want to miss this beautiful early spring walk through the Arnold Arboretum! Beginning at the main entrance, we'll ramble throughout the entire preserve for about four miles.  Highlights will include taking in the spectacular views of Boston and surroundings from Peters and Bussey Hills, ascending the slopes of Hemlock Hill, and viewing the magnificent tree and and shrub specimens.  As it will be early spring - and with hopes of warmer temps - we'll be able to see the catkins and budding of the trees and shrubs, witch hazel and crocuses in bloom, and other wonders of nature.  The Arnold Arboretum is a 280+ acre treasure operated by Harvard University on land owned by the City of Boston.  It's one of the finest examples of landscape design by Frederick Law Olmsted, and it's a National Historic Landmark.  Because of the vagaries of Boston weather, please dress with the appropriate outdoors gear, wear good hiking shoes and bring a liter of water.  Our hike is just one of the monthly rambles through the scenic and ever-changing Arboretum that are being planned for throughout the year.  After our extensive walk, we will re-group and walk over to nearby Jamaica Plain Center where we'll schmooze about our afternoon escapade at a local eatery.