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Spring Adventures at Viles Arboretum
Spring is the time to get outside and appreciate nature in full bloom. If you're living near Augusta, you have all sorts of opportunities. One of the best of them is the unique Viles Arboretum. If you've never visited, our real estate agents would love to tell you all about it.
Augusta homes for sale offer a wide range of wonderful benefits. World-class amenities, a strong local economy, and natural beauty combine to make this one of America's best places to live. Now that spring has arrived, it's a wonderful opportunity to enjoy one of Maine's top conservation sites.
Let's take a closer look.
The Fascinating History of Viles Arboretum
The land that's now Viles Arboretum was used since the early 1800s for agriculture. Over time, it was consolidated under the ownership of the State Hospital, now Riverview Psychiatric Center. Through many years, it continued to be a working farm providing crops, livestock, and occupational therapy.
Remains of several buildings and facilities, including the barn and cistern, remain today. In 1981, the Maine Forest Service began the development of what would become Viles Arboretum. By 1982, progress had been made on fences, trees, and trails. That year, an independent nonprofit was established.
Elsie and William Viles, local philanthropists, organized a network of supporters to ensure the new Arboretum had the funds and volunteers to protect Maine's natural treasures for generations to come. Originally Pine Tree State Arboretum, it was eventually renamed for the couple.
Viles Arboretum is located at 153 Hospital Street, Augusta, ME 04330.
Viles Arboretum Offers More than 200 Acres for You to Explore
Viles Arboretum stands out among similar facilities in the region for several reasons:
- It is 100% free to access no matter your age, background, or state of residency
- It is open 365 days a year, including federal holidays, thanks to its volunteers
- It is available to the public from sunrise to sunset, no matter what the season
Encompassing about 224 acres, there's plenty to explore at Viles Arboretum – and spring just may be the best time to do it. People visit all year long to meander through the six miles of trails. Winter is the time for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, while spring is ideal for bird watching.
While fishing, hunting, and overnight camping are all prohibited at Viles Arboretum, the trail system is extensive enough that you can traverse many different habitats and see animals up close. Leashed dogs are permitted, and pet waste stations are dispersed throughout the marked trails.
Event space rentals are available, and the Arboretum is a popular wedding venue.
This spring, you can sign up for classes, workshops, and guided outdoor experiences that all take place at Viles Arboretum. Adults and kids are welcome. Some events are free, while others have a per-person fee of up to $80. Let's see some of the highlights you can expect in spring's event calendar at Viles Arboretum:
Classes and Workshops
- Bittersweet Basket Making – $60
- Important Needle Leaf Trees – $5
- Maple Syrup Family Fun Day – Free
- Fruit Tree Grafting – $80
- Traditional Uses of Maine Deciduous Trees – $5
- Fruit Tree Pruning – $25
- Understanding Bird Language – $5
- Introduction to Wood Carving – $30
To see dates and times for all events, visit Viles Arboretum online.
Contact us to learn more about Augusta real estate opportunities.