Mount Pisgah Arboretum Hike

Mount Pisgah Arboretum is a 209-acre jewel set in the crown of the Howard Buford Recreation Area, located between the Coast and Middle Forks of the Willamette River and just south of Eugene and Springfield. The arboretum was established in the 1970s and was envisioned as an opportunity to promote world peace by planting and nurturing diverse tree species from around the world. Recently the focus has shifted (somewhat controversially) to preserving and showcasing more native species. While most visitors hike the trail to the summit of Mount Pisgah, the more intimate trails of the arboretum itself are well worth exploring. There are a number of diverse ecosystems to explore: the Riverbank trail follows the Coast Fork of the Willamette River;the Water Garden Trails offer a footbridge and bird viewing platform in a forested wetland;the Oak Savannah Trail winds through a gorgeous stand of native oaks;and the Jette and Upper Plateau trails offer glimpses west across the southern Willamette Valley. The White Oak Pavilion is host to seasonal celebrations, including the Mushroom Festival, which has been running for over 30 years. The pavilion is also available for weddings and other private events. The arboretum trails connect seamlessly with those of the surrounding Howard Buford Recreation Area, making for an endless array of hiking options, with distances and elevation gains suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Please be aware that dogs are required to be on a leash at all times inside the arboretum as well as on the Summit Trail. Mount Pisgah Arboretum is dedicated to educating people about the beauty and complexity of natural ecosystems, and the arboretum hosts numerous guided events throughout the year and introduces thousands of school children to the outdoors through their guided field trip programs.