A gorgeous woodland drive is surprisingly close to the heart of downtown Madison. Arboretum Drive travels through the University of Wisconsin Arboretum, which is part of the University of Wisconsin campus. It will take you along the shore of one of Madison’s scenic lakes and through a forested tunnel of trees. It’s a perfect place for a wild hike, a tranquil picnic, or just stay in your car and take in the view.
Here’s why Arboretum Drive is simply magical.
The University of Wisconsin Arboretum is a natural space that serves as a teaching and research facility. It’s a short distance from places like Capitol Square and Monona Terrace, but it feels a world away.
The arboretum was proposed in 1911 and founded in 1932. It sprawls across more than 1,200 acres along the shore of Lake Wingra.
You can pick up Arboretum Drive Near the entrance of Vilas Park and Vilas Zoo.
Drive carefully, as this is one of the most popular spots in the city for running, walking, and biking so you’ll encounter a lot of pedestrians. You also may see some deer or wild turkeys.
If you’re interested in a hike, there are some parking areas near trails and botanical plantings. There are 20 miles of hiking trails and 10 miles of ski/snowshoe trails in the park.
The “Arb,” as locals call it, contains many different natural areas, including restored prairie, woodlands, wetlands, and gardens. There are also some preserved Native American Effigy Mounds.
As you travel through the arboretum, you’ll drive beneath a thick canopy of trees. It’s beautiful in any season, especially in fall when the leaves turn.
There’s no admission to the UW Arboretum and it’s open year-round. Stop in at the Arboretum’s expansive Visitor Center to learn more about this special place. Wisconsin is filled with scenic spots – here are some spots that are practically begging for a photo!
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