arnold arboretum – The Adventures of Shadow and Wilma

Today Gus and I Adventured to the Rhododendron Path at the Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University, in the area of Boston, Massachusetts. The Arnold Arboretum was established in 1872, and encompasses 281 acres of land. The Arboretum maintains a record system of which all plants on the ground are tracked, while research is ongoing. The Arboretum is free and open to the public, offering outreach enrichment to people of all ages.

We had a colorful Adventure to the Rhododendron Path. Due to Wilma’s knee, we have not been walking often but I try to take one extra-long walk each week. Thankfully we spend endless time in our fenced yard, Gus enjoys two days at daycare, and I am always trying to think of fun ideas for home. So, although my guilty conscious kicks in a bit, Gus and I still had a lovely walk at the Rhododendron Path. I actually took photo over about a month’s time, as I wanted to make sure I captured the “Path” in full bloom, which going by weekends I would say it peaked last weekend. Although this was just part of our walk at the Arboretum, it is a specifically labeled section of the Arboretum, gorgeous, and unique, so a good excuse for a long overdue blog.

I have always loved this little area of the Arboretum drawn by the bubbly brook, and scenic wooden bridge. However, when in bloom it’s beyond magnificent with every color of Rhododendron you could imagine, many towering high into the sky. On our walks Gus loved following the trail and checking out what other furry friends had been exploring. He is always alert of those around us so was not as inspired to pose, but I did not spend too much effort on this task. He definitely prefers big sister Wilma by his side but has become much more comfortable, yet always vigilant. The “Path” is a small area, but we spent a good amount of time wandering back and forth through the little trails appreciating the beauty, serenity, and vibrant floral colors. Gus surprisingly enjoyed some sips from the brook and of course some jumps on some rocks. Such a lovely spot to explore! If you are looking for this “Path” at the Arboretum I would highly recommend it (Rating: 5 when in full bloom!)

Today Wilma and I Adventured to the Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University, in the area of Boston, Massachusetts. The Arnold Arboretum was established in 1872, and encompasses 281 acres of land. The Arboretum maintains a record system of which all plants on the ground are tracked, while research is ongoing. The Arboretum is free and open to the public, offering outreach enrichment to people of all ages. It is part of the Emerald Necklace, a system of parks in Boston.

I first posted about the Arnold Arboretum over two years ago when Shadow, Wilma, and I first discovered it. Little did I know it would become one of my favorite local parks. Wilma and I generally visit weekly, and have experienced it in all seasons. Almost every single time we go I find something new. We recently experienced our first after snowstorm visit which was a spectacular winter wonderland. I love the Arboretum as it is full of culture, and diversity, individuals, and families, it really is an environment that fits all. The Arboretum has bridges, streams, ponds, hills, trails, and gardens. As you may expect Wilma absolutely loves chasing the squirrels and can often be found attempting to climb a tree. We even have seen a snapping turtle, although thankfully Wilma did not even notice. Since it had been years since I blogged about it, and I have snapped constant photographs I thought I would put together this collage of photographs. Such a special place, which has become our therapeutic oasis. The Arnold Arboretum is definitely a must in New England, and it is a given that we will be back (Rating: 4.5).