Photos by Cheryl Landes

When I worked full-time in Acton, Masschusetts, my favorite activity during lunch was taking a walk in the Acton Arboretum in the center of town. This 65-acre preserve with trails crossing meadows, gardens, and woods is a pleasant escape for 30 minutes or a few hours.

Every time I visit New England, I make time to stop here whenever it’s possible. I love the varied seasonal colors from the flowers and trees. An herb garden and fragrance garden enhance the senses. Butterflies flutter and fly among the plants in a garden designed for them.

The arboretum, located 38 miles northwest of Boston, was established in 1986. Five years later,  a community organization called The Friends of the Acton Arboretum was incorporated. Volunteers from the organization raise funds, donate plants and materials, and maintain the grounds.

On today’s tour, we’ll take a spring stroll through the arboretum. We’ll see some snowy scenes, because the flakes can fall in Acton as late as mid- to late April.

The text in the last row of pictures above is on a laminated sign posted on the kiosk at the entrance to the arboretum. It’s a quote from architect Frank Lloyd Wright:

“The longer I live the more beautiful life becomes. If you foolishly ignore beauty, you will soon find yourself without it. Your life will be impoverished. But if you invest in beauty, it will remain with you all the days of your life.

“I know the price of success: dedication, hard work, and an unremitting devotion to the things you want to see happen.”

Here are some more seasonal walks through the arboretum:
Armchair photo tours: Summer at the Acton Arboretum
Armchair photo tours: A fall stroll at the Acton Arboretum