Jun 5, 2026
ParkOregon, US
Mount Pisgah Arboretum
Mount Pisgah Arboretum is a beautiful preserve showcasing Willamette Valley's natural wonders.
About
Mount Pisgah Arboretum is a beautiful preserve showcasing Willamette Valley's natural wonders. This 209-acre nature education facility, nestled within the larger Howard Buford Recreation Area near Eugene, Oregon, is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the diverse native ecosystems of the southern Willamette Valley. Unlike traditional arboreta, Mount Pisgah focuses on maintaining Pacific Northwest plant communities, offering visitors an immersive experience in the region's natural beauty and ecology.
Visitors can explore approximately eight miles of trails that wind through varied habitats, including rare oak savannas, wetlands, riparian forests along the Coast Fork of the Willamette River, and hillsides covered in Douglas-fir and incense-cedar forests. Interactive exhibits like the Water Garden, Oak Woodlands, and Incense-cedar provide deeper insight into these unique environments and their resident species. Keep an eye out for iconic plant species such as the majestic Oregon white oak, vibrant spring wildflowers like camas lilies, wild blue iris, trillium, and lupine, and a wide array of fungi, particularly in the fall. The arboretum is also a haven for wildlife, with opportunities to spot endangered Western pond turtles, various bird species including Great Blue Herons, Pileated Woodpeckers, and colorful Lazuli Buntings, as well as deer, foxes, and a rich diversity of insects like dragonflies and butterflies.
Whether you seek a peaceful nature walk, an engaging educational experience, or simply a refreshing outdoor escape, Mount Pisgah Arboretum offers a memorable visit. Its extensive trail system, rich biodiversity, and commitment to environmental education make it a cherished destination for connecting with the natural world. The arboretum hosts popular annual festivals, such as the Wildflower & Music Festival in May and the Mushroom Festival in October, drawing visitors to celebrate the seasonal beauty and ecological richness of the Willamette Valley. Explore the grounds like a pro—download the Snappit app to instantly identify animals and plants.
The concept for Mount Pisgah Arboretum originated in the late 1960s with an initial vision for an "international arboretum" featuring trees from around the world. In 1969, Governor McCall announced the creation of the Howard Buford Recreation Area, a 2,300-acre tract that was to include a 118-acre arboretum. The International Arboretum Association was formed in 1973, later renamed the Friends of Mount Pisgah Arboretum, and began developing the site by building trails and bridges, removing invasive species, and establishing educational programs. Over time, the arboretum's mission evolved from international plantings to a focus on preserving and showcasing native Pacific Northwest plant communities and their associated ecology. Key developments include the establishment of the Patricia Baker Memorial Wildflower Garden in the early 1980s, the opening of a visitor center, and the construction of the White Oak Pavilion in 2005. The arboretum has continually expanded its trail network and educational offerings, becoming a vital center for nature education and stewardship in the Willamette Valley.
What to do here
Hike or stroll along the extensive network of trails, participate in guided nature walks and workshops, enjoy picnicking in wooded areas, and observe a wide variety of birds and wildlife. Attend one of the seasonal festivals for live music, educational displays, and local vendors.
Seasonal info
Spring: Everything is green, wildflowers (like camas lilies, wild blue iris, trillium, lupine) are in full bloom, and migratory birds are active. Trails can be muddy.
Summer: Drier trails and warmer weather, though many blooms may have faded. Good for seeing insects like dragonflies and butterflies.
Fall: Famous for the Mushroom Festival and the changing colors of deciduous trees.
Winter: Trails are generally less muddy than spring. Excellent for birdwatching, including various sparrow species.
Accessibility
Mount Pisgah Arboretum offers an "Improved Access Loop" and "Barrier Free Loop" of lowland trails designed to be wider, with minimal incline, and gravel surfaces for easier access. ADA-compliant restrooms are available near the White Oak Pavilion. The arboretum partners with David's Chair to provide free all-terrain track chairs for visitors with mobility challenges, which can be reserved in advance. A drop-off area is located at the entrance, and accessible parking spots are available near the White Oak Pavilion for those who call ahead.
Don't miss
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Don't miss the Water Garden exhibit with its interactive elements, the Oak Woodlands exhibit that explores seasonal changes and species interactions, and the Incense-cedar exhibit for a deep dive into the forest ecology. The Patricia Baker Wildflower Garden is a must-see in spring. Explore the various habitats via trails like the Riverbank Trail, Meadow Road, Pond Lily Trail, and the Improved Access Loop.
Wildlife you might spot
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Good to know before you go
Pay the parking fee
A $5 day-use parking fee is required per vehicle, which supports the park's maintenance.
Check the event calendar
Plan your visit around the Wildflower & Music Festival (May) or the Mushroom Festival (October) for unique seasonal experiences.
Bring binoculars and a camera
The arboretum is a prime location for birdwatching and nature photography, especially with the diverse plant life and resident wildlife.
Dress for the weather and trails
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on gravel and natural surfaces. Trails can be muddy, especially between November and May, so waterproof footwear is advisable during these months.
Keep dogs on leash
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
Utilize accessibility resources
If mobility is a concern, take advantage of the Improved Access Loop and consider reserving an all-terrain David's Chair in advance.
Frequently asked questions
- Mount Pisgah Arboretum is open from dawn to dusk every day of the year. There is no entry fee to the arboretum itself; however, Lane County Parks requires a $5 parking fee per vehicle. Day passes can be purchased at a self-service machine or online, or an annual pass can be obtained. Bicycles can park for free.
- Yes, Mount Pisgah Arboretum is committed to accessibility. It features an "Improved Access Loop" and a "Barrier Free Loop" of trails that are wider, have minimal elevation gain, and are suitable for wheelchairs. ADA-compliant restrooms are available. Additionally, the arboretum partners with David's Chair to offer free all-terrain track chairs for visitors with mobility issues; these can be reserved in advance.
- The arboretum showcases a rich diversity of native Pacific Northwest plant communities, including Oregon white oak savannas, Douglas-fir and incense-cedar forests, wetlands, and wildflower meadows. You can see various wildflowers, ferns, mosses, lichens, and fungi. Wildlife includes deer, foxes, small mammals, endangered Western pond turtles, and many bird species such as Great Blue Herons, woodpeckers, raptors, and numerous songbirds. Dragonflies, butterflies, and other insects are also abundant, especially in warmer months.
Recent snaps at this place
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