Visitor Information
University Boulevard Construction: Please anticipate delays while traveling University Boulevard due to an ongoing contruction project. At times, this project also will impact the Arboretum's Education Center parking lot and Pavilion parking lot. The R5 lot will be open, but spaces are limited.
We apologize for the inconvenience.
Hours of Operation:
Arboretum Grounds & Trails:
Everyday, Dawn to Dusk | Free & Open to the Public
Frances Plecker Education Center:
Mon - Fri: 8 AM - 4 PM
Parking:
Visitor parking is available in the JMU R-5 lot on University Boulevard, in the Frances Plecker Educational Center lot, and in the Family Garden/Pavilion lot.
Parking is not available along University Boulevard
StoryWalk at the Arboretum
On May 5th, 2023, the StoryWalk opened at Edith J. Carrier Arboretum.
This project was made possible by efforts from the Harrisonburg Urban Wood Group, JMU Design Build Dukes and staff at Edith J. Carrier Arboretum. Each of the bookmarks and reading roost were built by JMU Students in Professor Nick Brinen's Architechural Design Class. You can find this exciting feature by walking thru the Family Garden, just past the Troll. To see a highlights of the StoryWalk Project, view the video below. Video Credit: WHSV
Location: Next to the bridge in the Family Garden.
What is StoryWalk®?
StoryWalk® is an innovative and delightful way for children — and adults! — to enjoy reading and the outdoors at the same time. Laminated pages from a children's book are attached to wooden stakes, which are installed along an outdoor path. As you stroll down the trail, you're directed to the next page in the story. StoryWalk® was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT
Origins of the StoryWalk
Current Book
Salamander Song
written by Ginny Neil
Illustrated by Charli Vince
A spring refrain! A salamander rain! This lush, lyrical story illuminates the convergence of wildlife and citizen science--and the big impact young readers can have on vulnerable species.
Identification Station
Grounds: Free to the public
Dawn to dusk | 365 days a year
Frances Plecker Education Center:
M-F | 8 AM - 4 PM
