Hike

Hike 16 miles of trails among 1,700 acres of woodland, wetland, and prairie. Walk at a leisurely pace on a paved path around Meadow Lake. Venture deep into the woodlands on Heritage Trail. Walk nine miles of scenic paved roads, or go off-trail hiking through the Conifer Collection.

In 2008, the newest hiking trail was created. The two mile trail, which you can catch at Meadow Lake, and P-18 and P-17, passes through the Elm Collection, mulberries, and lindens, loops through the Japan Collection and continues through the Appalachia Collection.

Many visitors prefer to see the grounds by hiking because it lets them experience nature up close, in new and intimate ways. Visit our walking trails guide to find more information about popular trails to explore by foot.

Run

The sights, sounds, and smells that change with the season, as well as the safe roads and varied terrain, make the Arboretum a runner's paradise year-round. Countless runners take advantage of the nine miles of scenic paved roads that wind through the West and East Side, creating a beautiful running course. The most common run loops are the outer 4.5 mile loop on the East Side and the 2.9 mile loop around the outer West Side.

Running is allowed on the roadways, although only walkers are permitted on trails. Runners can change clothes, use the restrooms and lockers, and buy water and food in the Visitor Center.

Bike

Bike nine miles of paved roads that wind through our magnificent tree collections. Hop on your bicycle, and explore our expansive grounds in a new and adventurous way all year-round, weather permitting. (Daily, 7a.m.-sunset)

Bike racks are available at the Visitor Center, Big Rock and Prairie Visitor Stations, Administration & Research Center, Thornhill Education Center, and near the Gatehouses at the main entrance.

A variety of bikes, carts, and even wagons are also available for rent beginning in April each year. To get details and view current prices and hours, go to Bike Rentals.

Enjoy bicycling in an "auto-free zone"
May 3– September 8
Fridays: 5:30 p.m.– sunset
Saturdays & Sundays: 7:00 a.m.– 9:00 a.m.

Maximize your bicycling experience by reading our Bicycling Guidelines before you visit.

Snowshoe

This winter embrace the snowy season and come snowshoe 1,700 acres of the Arboretum’s winter wonderland. Visitors are invited to bring their own snowshoes to explore the grounds from 7 a.m. to sunset.

Kids' and adults' snowshoes are available for rent at the Visitor Center Area, on a first-come, first-served basis.

Popular Snowshoe Locations and Routes: 

• The Conifer Collection (good for kids and families)
• Thornhill Education Center Lawn
• Main Trail Loop 4 on the East Side 
• Spruce Plot near Parking Lot 12
• Daffodil Glade at Parking Lot 22

Please only wear snowshoes on snow-covered trails and areas. Benches are available in various locations. Restrooms and warming stations are located at the Visitor Center, Thornhill Education Center, and Thornhill Shelter (P-21).

For more information, visit the Information Desk at the Visitor Center or call 630-968-0074.

Ski

This winter put on your winter hat and scarf and come cross-country ski 1,700 acres of the Arboretum’s winter wonderland.

Popular Ski Locations and Routes:

• The Conifer Collection (good for kids and families)
• Thornhill Education Center Lawn
• Main Trail Loop 4 on the East Side 
• Spruce Plot near Parking Lot 12
• Daffodil Glade at Parking Lot 22

Please only wear skis on snow-covered trails and areas. No skis allowed on the roads. Benches are available in various locations. Restrooms and warming stations are located at the Visitor Center, Thornhill Education Center, and Thornhill Shelter (P-21).

For more information, visit the Information Desk at the Visitor Center or call 630-968-0074.

Sit

It's said that Greta Garbo uttered the famous words, "I want to be alone." Sometimes, we all share her pursuit. Our gardens offer intimate spaces where you can retreat, relax, and be alone with your thoughts. Sit and enjoy a book, a journal, a cup of coffee, or the simple sights, sounds, and smells of nature.

Find your childhood "secret garden" under an old tree, along a serene path, or beside the many lakes, ponds, meadows, and vistas the Arboretum offers. Find your own secret spot at The Morton Arboretum and flourish!