conserving and restoring Arboretum lands ? advancing restoration ecology ? fostering the land ethic

Located between Lake Wingra and the West Beltline Highway in Madison, Wisconsin, this 1,260-acre research and study area features the restored prairies, forests and wetlands of pre-settlement Wisconsin.

Educational tours for groups and the general public, science and nature-based classes for all ages and abilities, and a wide variety of volunteer opportunities for groups, families and individuals are available.

Widely recognized as the site of historic research in ecological restoration, the Arboretum includes the oldest and most varied collection of restored ecological communities in the world, including tallgrass prairies, savannas, several forest types and wetlands. It also houses flowering trees, shrubs and a world-famous lilac collection.

Running and cross-country skiing are permitted on marked trails. Pets, picnics and use of bicycles on unpaved routes are prohibited. There are parking lots and bike racks within the Arboretum. Around the perimeter of the Arboretum there are multiple pedestrian accesses, some of them near Madison metro bus stops.