A Free Botanical Garden In Augusta, ME
6 MILES OF TRAILS, EXCELLENT WILDLIFE WATCHING, SKIING & SNOWSHOEING, INTERPRETIVE SIGNAGE , 20+ BOTANICAL COLLECTIONS, VISITOR CENTER & GIFT SHOP, AND MUCH MORE!
Viles Arboretum is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that was established in 1982 in conjunction with the Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands in order to provide educational, recreational, and inspirational opportunities through the conservation of land and the cultivation of trees and other woody plants from around the world. Located in Maine's Capital City, the Arboretum is a no-fee 224 acre botanical garden which features miles of trails, a rotating suite of programs and events, a full service visitor center, and a variety of habitats home to flora and fauna of Statewide importance.
Recent News

Salamander Monitoring at Viles Arboretum
Wednesday, 16 April 2025 12:50It's salamander season again at Viles Arboretum! As the ground warms and spring settles in, our Eastern Red-backed salamanders ( Plethodon cinereus ) are becoming active again! These small but...

Johnny Appleseed: The Man, The Myth, The Apple Tree
Saturday, 12 April 2025 16:22Here at Viles Arboretum, we're proud to steward many different varieties of apple trees in both our Heritage and Ancestral Apple Orchards. Apples have a long fascinating history in America, and...

American Chestnut Seedling 2025 Pre-Orders Now Open
Saturday, 05 April 2025 12:24Viles Arboretum is excited to once again partner with the Maine Chapter of the American Chestnut Foundation to offer American chestnut seedlings for sale as part of the ongoing effort to restore of...

Tracking Down the Trees of the Arboretum
Saturday, 08 February 2025 13:32Ever wondered how the red botanical tags at Viles Arboretum got there? This winter, we set out to update plant records, armed with old maps, handwritten notes, and plenty of patience. What seemed...

Enhancing Viles Arboretum: How You Can Help in 2024
Friday, 04 October 2024 10:02Viles Arboretum has been thriving, with busy trails, numerous events, and a bright outlook for the future. As we look ahead to 2024, there are a couple of areas that need attention so this years...

A Necessary Change: Why Callery Pears Must Go at Viles Arboretum
Friday, 27 September 2024 12:42In the coming weeks, Viles Arboretum will be removing five Callery Pear (Pyrus calleryana) trees from our grounds. These trees, planted in 1986, line the edge of the Heritage Apple Orchard along the...
Visiting Viles Arboretum
Are you planning your first trip to our Arboretum? Here's what you need to know:
Fee
There is no fee for visiting Viles Arboretum. Access to our hiking trails, walking paths, and botanical gardens is free for everyone. We are a private, non-profit corporation supported by membership fees, donations, and gifts. Click here to support Viles Arboretum or become a member.
Leave No Trace
- Stay on marked trails
- Respect all plants and wildlife. Collection, damaging, or harassing plants and wildlife is not permitted
- Carry out all trash and pet waste
Rules
- Dogs are welcome and must be on leash at all times. Please pick up after your pet. Dog-waste stations and complimentary bags are available at trail head kiosks
- No climbing trees or art installations
- No smoking, fires, grills, or combustibles of any kind
- No hunting, fishing, trapping
- Individuals or businesses looking to host an event or other function at the Arboretum must obtain prior authorization
Commercial photographers must obtain a permit to utilize the Arboretum. Click here to purchase.
Recreational Opportunities
Viles Arboretum offers a variety of recreational opportunities for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the recreational activities you can enjoy during your visit:
Hiking and Walking: over six miles of trails that wind through gardens, forests, wetlands, and meadows. These trails offer great opportunities for hiking, walking, and exploring the natural areas of the arboretum.
Bird & Wildlife Watching: The diverse habitats found within Viles Arboretum provide excellent wildlife watching opportunities. Throughout the year you can spot a variety of birds, mammals, insects, reptiles, and fish.
Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing: During the winter months, Viles Arboretum's trails provide excellent opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Equipment rentals are available in the visitor center.
Picnicking: There are several picnic areas throughout Viles Arboretum that offer scenic views and peaceful settings for enjoying a picnic lunch or snack.
Geocaching: Viles Arboretum is home to several geocaches, which offer a fun and interactive way to explore the arboretum while searching for hidden treasures.
Photography: Viles Arboretum is a beautiful and scenic location for photography. The gardens, trees, and natural areas provide endless opportunities for capturing stunning photos. Commercial photography by permit only.
Host your next event at Viles Arboretum
Located in downtown Augusta, ME, Viles Arboretum is the perfect location for your next meeting, conference, party, wedding, or other special event. We offer a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces in a beautiful, yet convenient setting.
- Wireless high speed internet access
- Full commercial kitchen on site
- Newly renovated indoor spaces with tables and seating for up to 100 people
- Stunning outdoor spaces perfect for weddings or other events
Weddings & Large Events
Meetings & Small Gatherings