Step ponds at Woodend Nature Sanctuary on a sunny summer day

Woodend Walks and Tours

Notable Trees Tour

The forest and lawns of Woodend are perfect places to learn more about both native and introduced trees. Master key identification strategies for 20 species, visit three county “champion” trees, plus learn about the wildlife habitat and ecosystem services that trees provide in our urban region.

Natural Habitats Tour

Boasting 27-acres of forest, five acres of wildflower meadows, and a newly-restored small stream, Woodend is an oasis of natural habitats in our rapidly urbanizing region. Learn about the bees and butterflies that visit our meadows, the frogs and salamanders that breed in our stream, and the many bird species that thrive at our sanctuary.

Native Plants Garden Tour

Woodend was once a lavish estate with impressive formal gardens. Nature Forward has maintained the beauty of that cultural landscape, while transitioning to native plant gardens that support wildlife and reduce stormwater pollution. Learn tips for tending your own conservation landscape!

A guide shows a large fall leaf to a toddler in his smiling father's arms while a mother and baby in sling look on

Family Walks

Join expert naturalists on a leisurely walk through the habitats at Woodend Nature Sanctuary. Explore the wonders of trees, meadows, streams, insects, birds, and everything Woodend has to offer!

Children explore a sun-dappled garden

Bilingual Family Walks (English/Spanish)

Explora la maravilla de la naturaleza—los arboles, pájaros, insectos y todo lo que Woodend nos ofrece, con uno de nuestros naturalistas. Solo registre un adulto al inscribirse.

A guide points off into the distance while three people observe through their binoculars

Saturday Morning Bird Walks

Join enthusiastic birders at Woodend to learn birding basics. You’ll learn binocular basics and how to identify common birds as well as explore the wonders of migration. The second registrant is FREE.

For questions or comments regarding Woodend Tours, please email [email protected]

Woodend Nature Sanctuary

8940 Jones Mill Road
Chevy Chase, MD 20815

Trails are open daily from dawn to dusk.

Thank you for leaving dogs and other pets at home.

july

12jul9:00 am10:00 amSaturday Morning Bird Walk

19jul9:00 am10:30 amNatural Habitats of Woodend

19jul9:30 am11:30 amForest Bathing with Adria Zeldin

august

08aug10:00 am11:30 amNatural Habitats of Woodend

09aug9:00 am10:00 amSaturday Morning Bird Walk

16aug9:00 am10:30 amNotable Trees of Woodend

september

12sep10:00 am11:30 amNotable Trees Tour of Woodend

13sep8:00 am9:00 amSaturday Morning Bird Walk

20sep9:00 am10:30 amNatural Habitats Tour of Woodend

october

10oct10:00 am11:30 amNative Plants Garden Tour of Woodend

11oct8:00 am9:00 amSaturday Morning Bird Walk

18oct10:00 am12:00 pmForest Bathing with Ana Ka’ahanui

november

08nov8:00 am9:00 amSaturday Morning Bird Walk

14nov10:00 am11:30 amNatural Habitats Tour of Woodend

december

13dec8:00 am9:00 amSaturday Morning Bird Walk