UC Davis Arboretum Trail
UC Davis Arboretum Trail
2.9
(9)
74
hikers
01:49
7.14km
20m
Hiking
The UC Davis Arboretum Trail offers a delightful and easy escape into a vibrant botanical world, perfect for a leisurely stroll. This 4.4-mile (7.1 km) route, with a negligible 54 feet (16 metres) of elevation gain, guides you through a "living museum" of diverse plant collections and natural landscapes. You'll…
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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2.81 km
Ruins
Ruins
3.91 km
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
7.14 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
6.96 km
177 m
Surfaces
5.69 km
629 m
530 m
272 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Wednesday 26 August
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This route was planned by komoot.
The trail is predominantly flat and mostly paved, making it an easy and accessible route. Some sections are wheelchair-friendly, particularly the east and west ends of the arboretum. It's suitable for walking, jogging, and cycling.
Given its easy difficulty and length of approximately 7.1 kilometers, most visitors can expect to complete the loop in about 1 hour and 48 minutes, though a leisurely stroll to enjoy the scenery might take closer to two hours.
The arboretum is a 'living museum' with around 4,000 kinds of trees, plants, and shrubs across over 20 themed gardens. You'll find California natives, Australian, East Asian, and Mediterranean plants. The Arboretum Waterway is home to various birds, ducks, and turtles, and the area supports diverse wildlife.
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trails within the UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to clean up after your pet.
The arboretum offers seasonal blooms and evolving landscapes throughout the year. Spring and fall are particularly pleasant for walking due to milder temperatures and vibrant plant displays. However, its diverse collections ensure there's always something interesting to see, even in winter or summer.
No, the UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden, including its trails, is free and open to the public every day of the year. No permits or entrance fees are required.
Parking is available at various points around the UC Davis campus and adjacent to the arboretum. Specific parking lots may require payment or a UC Davis parking permit during certain hours. It's advisable to check the UC Davis parking website for the most current information on visitor parking options and fees.
The trail meanders through over 20 themed gardens, including the Peter J. Shields Oak Grove, the Ruth Risdon Storer Garden, and the T. Elliot Weier Redwood Grove. You'll also pass by the scenic Lake Spafford and the Arboretum Waterway, which is great for wildlife spotting. Informational signs along the path identify plants and share educational insights.
Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Davis Bike Loop, the 50 (California) trail, and various segments of Arboretum Drive.
Absolutely! Its flat, paved paths and diverse scenery make it very family-friendly. The 'living museum' aspect with various gardens and wildlife spotting opportunities provides an engaging and educational experience for children of all ages.
Given its location within the UC Davis campus and proximity to downtown Davis, there are numerous cafes, restaurants, and dining options available within a short walk or drive from various points along the arboretum trail.
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