Our Trails
The six-mile trail network at Viles Arboretum winds through 224 acres of fields, forests, wetlands, and gardens, providing access to the full range of landscapes found across the property.
Trail surfaces vary from gravel and grass to more rugged terrain, offering options for a variety of interests and comfort levels. Along the way, visitors can explore natural ecosystems and cultivated plantings, with opportunities for birding, photography, and quiet reflection throughout the seasons.
We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to connect with nature. We're in the early stages of developing an accessible trail loop and are excited to continue expanding access across the Arboretum. This work is part of our ongoing commitment to creating and inclusive outdoor experience for all visitors!
Accessibility at the Arboretum
We believe that access to nature should be available to everyone. While many of our trails are rustic and natural by design, we are actively working to reduce barriers and make the Arboretum more welcoming for people of all abilities.
We understand that accessibility looks different for everyone. If you have questions about trail accessibility or would like help planning your visit, our staff are happy to provide details about specific trails to help you decide which ones may work best for you.
The Path to Better Accessibility
We are in the process of building an accessible trail loop that allows visitors of all abilities to explore a diverse area of the Arboretum.
We began this project by inviting Enock Glidden to tour our trail system. As an accessibility consultant and outdoor adventurer, he provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities for improving access.
Building on his assessment, we partnered with Erin Amadon, a Trail Planner, Educator, and Builder with Town 4 Trail Services, to conduct a comprehensive trail assessment and develop an accessibility improvement plan for the Arboretum.
Thanks to their expertise, we now have a roadmap for making meaningful improvements that honor both the natural character of the Arboretum and the needs of our diverse community.
