A Gentle Walk in Nature: Forest Bathing at Tregaron Conservancy

Slow down, breathe deeply and experience wild DC through a gentle, guided forest bathing walk at Tregaron Conservancy. As part of Birding DC 2026, step away from the rush of the city and experience birds and nature at a different pace. Together with Susan West Montgomery, certified forest bathing guide, we’ll slow down, cultivate curiosity, and experience birds and nature more fully. This gentle walk blends bird observation with the practice of forest bathing, which invites participants to use all of their senses to take in the sights, sounds, scents, textures, and movement of the forest. More than a walk in the woods, forest bathing is a conscious choice to be present and immersed in nature. Rather than focusing on how far we travel or how many species we identify, we’ll move slowly through Tregaron Conservancy, pausing along the way to notice what’s around us and allowing the experience to unfold. Birds will certainly be part of our morning, but there’s no checklist and nowhere we need to hurry. No birding or forest bathing experience is necessary. Just come prepared to slow down, breathe, listen, and spend some intentional time outside. This program is part of Birding DC 2026, DC Bird Alliance’s citywide celebration of the birds, people, and wild spaces that make Washington, DC extraordinary. 🌿 What to Bring • Water and snacks • Comfortable walking shoes with good traction • Weather-appropriate layers • Insect repellent, if desired • A small sit pad or lightweight portable chair, if you’d like one for our pauses • An open mind and a willingness to slow down ♿ Accessibility 🐢 Pace: Very slow and gentle, with frequent pauses for observation and sensory invitations 📏 Distance: Short-distance walking throughout the experience 🪨 Terrain: Tregaron includes natural-surface and woodland trails. Expect areas that may be uneven, with roots, rocks, slopes, mud, or other typical trail conditions, particularly after rain. 🪑 Rest Areas: Frequent stationary pauses are part of the experience. Formal seating may be limited, so participants who would benefit from portable seating are encouraged to bring a lightweight chair or sit pad. ♿ Wheelchair Access: Portions of the property may not be suitable for all mobility devices because of natural trail surfaces and changes in grade. Please contact DC Bird Alliance before registering if you’d like to discuss the planned route and your specific access needs. 🚻 Restrooms: Restroom availability may be limited. Additional logistical information will be shared with registered participants before the program. ⚠️ Release & Waiver of Liability By registering for and participating in this DC Bird Alliance event, you acknowledge that outdoor activities involve inherent risks and agree to the DC Bird Alliance Release and Waiver of Liability. Please review the waiver in full before registering.