Mountain Top Arboretum Tannersville NY
Explore 209 acres of native and exotic trees, gardens, meadows, and forests with boardwalk trails.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls
Mountain Top Arboretum Tannersville NY
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore 209 acres of native and exotic trees, gardens, meadows, and forests with boardwalk trails.
"A gorgeous and highly diverse opportunity to step into nature! Love this space!"
👟 Wear Hiking Boots
Hemlock Trail has roots & rocks. Sturdy shoes are a must for comfort and safety!
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast on weekends. Beat the rush for a stress-free visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hidden Marsh Boardwalk
Hidden Marsh Trail
Wander through wetlands on a boardwalk, surrounded by peat moss and serene marshland. A truly immersive nature experience.

Spruce Glen Old Growth
Spruce Glen Trail
Marvel at inspiring old-growth hemlocks in this ancient forest. A humbling walk through towering, majestic trees.

West and East Meadows
Meadow Trails
Experience the beauty of manicured gardens and open meadows, a testament to thoughtful landscape design.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Trails
Peak Season Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Hiking Boots
Hemlock Trail has roots & rocks. Sturdy shoes are a must for comfort and safety!
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast on weekends. Beat the rush for a stress-free visit.
🧘♀️ Pack a Book
Quiet spots abound for reading or napping amidst nature's tranquility.
🆓 Free Admission!
Enjoy the beauty without an entry fee. Donations are welcome!
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Hiking Boots
Hemlock Trail has roots & rocks. Sturdy shoes are a must for comfort and safety!
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast on weekends. Beat the rush for a stress-free visit.
🧘♀️ Pack a Book
Quiet spots abound for reading or napping amidst nature's tranquility.
🆓 Free Admission!
Enjoy the beauty without an entry fee. Donations are welcome!
🌳 Explore All Trails
Don't miss the woodland and meadow areas for a complete experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Mountain Top Arboretum's stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes, from serene marshes to ancient forests. The free admission and well-maintained trails make it an accessible and highly recommended spot for a peaceful nature escape. Some note that parking can be challenging on busy weekends.
"What a gorgeous and highly diverse opportunity to step into nature! Love this space! While here we experienced incredible walking trails that invite visitors to step into an interesting variety of outdoor areas from evergreens to wetlands filled with peat moss to meadows. The trails are easy to navigate and well marked. This place is absolutely worth a visit. I can’t wait to go back!"
Deborah Sarmir
"One of the favorite nature walks in Catskills, arboretum combines man-made landscape of West and East Meadows with native beauty of Spruce Glen (old growth hemlocks there are inspiring and trail to Hidden Marsh boardwalk reminded me illustrations to Grimm Brothers fairy tales). Parking may be tight on weekends."
Mike Z
"Serene, heavenly. Rains had just stopped and we walked on the soft wet ground and saw experienced the gentle nature with light breeze on our faces and lush green visuals. All our travel tiredness and stress the melted away instantly."
Mitesh Bohra
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
While direct public transport to the arboretum is limited, you can take a bus or train to a nearby town like Catskill or Kingston, and then arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to Tannersville. Some visitors have found it challenging to navigate without a car, so planning your transport in advance is crucial.
Yes, there is free parking available. However, it can get tight on weekends, so arriving early is recommended to secure a spot.
The arboretum is located in Tannersville, NY. Use GPS navigation for the most accurate directions to 3654 NY-23, Tannersville, NY 12485.
Yes, it's a popular day trip destination from NYC. The drive is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic.
Tannersville itself offers some amenities like coffee shops and restaurants, as seen in TikToks featuring local spots. However, for a wider range of services and easier transit connections, consider staying in larger towns like Woodstock or Kingston.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, admission to the Mountain Top Arboretum is free. While there's no charge, donations are greatly appreciated to help maintain the grounds and programs.
The arboretum is generally open daily, but it's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for any seasonal changes or special event closures.
No advance booking is required as admission is free. You can typically just show up and explore.
Yes, the arboretum offers year-round programs for children and adults, focusing on native plants and conservation. Check their schedule for educational workshops and events.
While specific pet policies can vary, many arboretums allow leashed dogs. It's best to confirm their current pet policy before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The arboretum features a variety of trails, including boardwalks through wetlands (like Hidden Marsh), root-covered forest paths (Hemlock Trail), and open meadow paths. They are generally well-marked and easy to navigate.
Absolutely! The arboretum offers educational programs for children and its diverse landscapes provide engaging exploration opportunities. The easy-to-navigate trails are great for little legs.
The terrain varies from flat boardwalks and gentle meadow paths to more challenging, root-and-rock-covered inclines on forest trails like the Hemlock Trail.
Yes, there are numerous spots to sit, relax, read a book, or simply take in the peaceful surroundings.
The arboretum showcases native plants of the northeastern US, including diverse trees, meadows, and wetland flora. You'll learn about various species along the trails.
📸 📸 Photography
The Hidden Marsh boardwalk offers unique perspectives of wetland flora, while the Spruce Glen trail provides dramatic shots of old-growth hemlocks. The meadows also offer beautiful, open vistas.
Yes, it's an excellent location for nature photography with its diverse ecosystems, native plants, and serene landscapes. The changing seasons offer different photographic opportunities.
Drone usage policies can vary greatly. It's essential to check the arboretum's official rules and regulations regarding drone operation before your visit.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Golden hour can be particularly magical.
The end of the Hidden Marsh boardwalk and clearings within the Spruce Glen offer particularly picturesque scenes. The transition areas between meadows and forests are also visually appealing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and water, and be prepared for varying terrain. The Hidden Marsh boardwalk is a particular hit with kids, offering a unique perspective on wetland life. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, as some trails can be uneven. The peaceful atmosphere is perfect for a family outing that combines fun and learning.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Nature Enthusiasts
With free admission, it's an accessible way to immerse yourself in nature. The diverse ecosystems, from old-growth forests to serene marshes, provide a rich experience for anyone passionate about the natural world. Consider visiting on a weekday to fully appreciate the tranquility.
📸 Photographers
Aim for the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon for the best light. The arboretum's natural beauty provides endless opportunities for capturing stunning nature photography, whether you're using a professional camera or just your smartphone.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Diverse Ecosystems
The arboretum also features beautifully maintained West and East Meadows, demonstrating thoughtful landscape design that complements the wilder areas. These open spaces provide a sense of tranquility and offer different photographic opportunities. The well-marked trails, including the root-and-rock-laden Hemlock Trail and the gentler meadow paths, ensure that visitors of all fitness levels can explore and appreciate the diverse ecosystems.
Beyond the visual splendor, the arboretum serves an educational purpose, displaying the names of various trees and offering insights into their natural habitats. This makes it an ideal spot for learning about local botany and conservation efforts. The inclusion of Thomas Cole quotes on the trails adds a layer of artistic and historical appreciation to the natural experience.
A Haven for Solitude and Reflection
The arboretum's commitment to preserving natural beauty also means it's a place where one can truly disconnect. The absence of loud crowds, especially on weekdays, allows for a deeper immersion in the sounds and sights of nature. Whether you're enjoying a quiet moment by the small pond or contemplating the ancient hemlocks, the arboretum provides an environment conducive to mindfulness and stress relief.
This tranquil atmosphere makes it an excellent destination for solo travelers or anyone looking to recharge. The free admission further enhances its appeal as an accessible retreat, allowing everyone to experience the restorative power of nature without financial barriers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit