Guided Walks

The highlight of a visit to Adkins Arboretum is a walk on five miles of trails through a variety of habitats: open upland meadows, maturing hardwood forest, lush wooded bottomland, and abundant wetland.

The trails are well-marked so visitors can explore them on their own, but there are several opportunities to join a guided walk with a knowledgable docent naturalist.

Private group tours are also available.

Contact Jean Wortman, Visitor Services Manager, to inquire about guided walks.

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Biodiversity Walks

Learn about and observe the natural ecosystems of Maryland’s Coastal Plain on an expert–led walk, identifying as many species as possible along the way. These walks are fun and fact-filled.

Biodiversity Walks are led by Jim Brighton, co-founder and President of the Maryland Biodiversity Project, which catalogs the living flora and fauna of Maryland.

View upcoming Biodiversity Walks.

Bird Migration Walks

Led by Jim Wilson and Wayne Bell.

Healing Walks

Nature has the power to heal.

View upcoming Healing Walks.

First Saturday Walks

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Pride Nature Walks

LGBTQ+ adults, teens, parents, and allies are invited to participate in a monthly guided walk to explore the Arboretum’s rich native plant habitats. A representative from the Delmarva Pride Center will facilitate these supportive group walk.

Adkins Arboretum is proud to provide a beautiful, inclusive, and welcoming space. Pride Nature Walks begin at the Visitor’s Center and last about an hour. Please dress for the weather.
 

Rooted Wisdom: Nature’s Role in the Underground Railroad Walks

Learn from a docent naturalist how freedom seekers used the natural landscape to forge a path for freedom. Their methods for navigating, concealing themselves, finding food, and evading capture reflect a deep connection to, and understanding of, the natural landscape. Throughout the walk, we’ll explore how nature both helped and hindered the journey.

Soup ‘n Walks

Scheduled six times per year, Soup ‘n Walks combine a guided group walk on the Arboretum’s trails led by a docent naturalist, followed by a nutritious catered lunch in the Visitor’s Center.

Every Soup ‘n Walk program is based upon a seasonal theme. The lunch menu is thoughtfully planned to reflect that theme. A brief talk about nutrition is presented during lunch, and recipes are available for all of the dishes served.