This site consists of 3 acres that include gardens and the farmhouse headquarters building, as well as 42 acres of woodlands with more than 1.5 miles of mulched trails. The bridges that cross the clear stream flowing through the forest are excellent sites to scan for reptiles such as Northern Water Snake, Green Frog and other amphibians, and the black and metallic-green Ebony Jewelwing damselfly. Seasonally, Purple Finch and Eastern Bluebird may be seen; common species include Brown Thrasher, Carolina Chickadee, Downy and other woodpeckers, White-eyed Vireo, Carolina Wren, and Northern Cardinal. Vegetable and flower gardens around the headquarters attract numerous butterflies including Black Swallowtail, Fiery, Zabulon and Silver-spotted skippers, and Summer Azure. Watch for different species such as Zebra Swallowtail and Little Wood Satyr along the woodland trails. Pick up a trail map from the box along the path near the farm house.

Write-up courteousy of The Great American Trails Company http://www.greatamericantrails.com/nature_trails/virginia/so_chesapeake/so_ches_002.html

Did you know this service project not only helps the Arboretum (having helpful volunteers) , your community (saves money and helps maintain the community's property) and the environment (helps keep it clean and nice looking) but it also helps YOU...this service project as well as other activities you may do that day can be applied towards your requirements, electives or other awards!!!!

See our flyer to find out more

From Great Bridge:
Drive north on North Battlefield Blvd to Gainsborough Square (McDonalds Restaurant at corner). Turn right at the light and continue 0.2 mile to the road’s end. Turn left and immediately left again into the Arboretum parking lot.