The North Carolina Arboretum

Snuggled in the heart of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, this Arboretum is a sprawling 434-acre campus that offers an unparalleled botanical experience.

With over 65 acres of cultivated gardens, you can explore a diverse array of plants, from rare and endangered species to traditional garden favorites. The Arboretum boasts a variety of themed gardens, including the Bonsai Exhibition Garden, the Quilt Garden, and the National Native Azalea Collection.

The Arboretum's extensive network of trails offers ample opportunities for exploration, with over ten miles of hiking and biking trails meandering through forests, meadows, and along tranquil rivers. The Arboretum also provides ample educational opportunities, with workshops, classes, and lectures that cater to all ages and interests.

How to explore the North Carolina Arboretum?

• Visit the National Native Azalea Collection, Quilt Garden, and Bonsai Exhibition Garden among the 65 acres of landscaped gardens.
• Ride your bike or simply take a leisure walk on the 10 miles of paths that weave through the Arboretum's forests, meadows, and rivers.
• Learn about plant preservation, sustainable landscaping, and forest health in a workshop, lecture, or class designed for people of all ages and backgrounds.
• Explore nature's spectacle and diverse ecosystems of Western North Carolina on one of the Arboretum's guided tours led by docent professionals.
• Have a quiet meal or snack in one of the many serene areas sprawling over the Arboretum's beautiful grounds.
• The Baker Exhibit Center at the Arboretum hosts rotating art and scientific exhibits in addition to interactive displays about the flora and fauna.
• Attend a festival or event at the Arboretum, like the Bonsai Expo or the Winter Lights display.
• Visit the Arboretum at different times of the year to see the stunning displays that highlight the region's plant life.
• Participate in the Arboretum's conservation initiatives, which aim to maintain the Western North Carolina landscape for future generations.