DC Delights: Christmas on the National Mall ( Rating : C, Fun)

About this event

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.

8.5 miles city hike around the National Mall with minimal elevation

Seasons Greetings! Come and Share the Joy of the Season with Us!

From the Columbia Island Marina , we will head over the 14th street bridge and loop around the Tidal Basin to the National Mall.

Our first stop will be the Annual Holiday Show at United States Botanic Garden .

From there we will head over to admire the Capitol Christmas tree .

For lunch, we will make a stop at the Sculpture Garden Pavilion Café where you can either eat your own bag lunch or purchase something there

Then we will head down the mall to visit the National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse .

Our route home will be over the Memorial Bridge thus allowing us to visit the Reflecting Pool and the Lincoln Memorial , before heading back down the Mount Vernon Trail to the Marina .

Facilities : All along the hike

Pace : pace is about 2 - 2.5 mph while moving.

Bring: - Hydration and snacks as you desire or purchase a snack at the Sculpture Garden. - The route is basically level. Most of the hike will be on paved surfaces so wear comfortable walking shoes. - Dress in layers for the weather.

Dogs: Dogs are NOT welcome on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy .

Weather: weather in this location is HERE .

Post-Hike FellowShip: Island Time Bar & Grill at Columbia Island Marina

Meetup Location: We will meet up at Columbia Island Marina at 9 am to get checked in and ready to leave by 9:30 am. GPS Coordinates: 38.87651,-77.04947 GPS LINK

Maps 1/ Map National Mall

2/ Map National Mall

3/ US Botanical Garden Train Display National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden

4/ Ice Rink National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden

From Northern Virginia Hiking Club (NVHC)