The U.C. Davis Arboretum is 100 acres of teaching and research gardens stretching across campus on the banks of a languid creek. Beautiful at any time of year, the gardens include 18 planting areas showcasing fauna from various regions of the world as well as specific types of trees and other plants.
Large trees shade a paved, multi-use trail popular with joggers, dog-walkers and cyclists. It stretches the length of the arboretum; walking from one end to the other and back is 3.5 miles. Lawns, picnic areas and benches are scattered along the way.
• Dogs on leash welcome on arboretum paths. Please pick up after your friend!
• Admission: Free
• Hours: Open daily around the clock.
• Parking is free on weekends, $7 during the week.
See arboretum map to locate various points of entry, and refer to the arboretum website for directions, which can be confusing for those not familiar with the U.C. Davis campus. Visitor Lot 47 near Mondvai Center and Arboretum Headquarters is one of the largest and easiest to find.