There are many learning opportunities in the Arboretum:
- Curious about Quercus. Learning to Identify Oak Leaves: Examples of leaves you can find in the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum. An education exhibit on display in the Frances Plecker Education Center January - March 2026.
- Plecker Pond Loop Self-Guided Tour
- Plecker Pond Loop Self-Guided Tour Text-Only
- What's in Bloom
- Early Spring Blooms Info Sheet (late Feb. - March)
- Late March to early April Blooms Info Sheet
- The Backpack Program
- Our YouTube Page
- Other Educational Resources
- Notes from lecture Plants for Pollinators by Gail Napora
The Arboretum is Expanding
An expansion of the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum was announced by President James C. Schmidt on April 10, 2026, increasing the Arboretum from 63 to 110 acres. The expansion will include a reforestation project with up to 1,500 native trees planted on East Campus, along University Boulevard.
Through the expansion, we are excited to support and amplify the work of faculty and students already taking place in many of these areas. Deepening our shared commitment to the stewardship and conservation of this land is an important goal of this expansion. Faculty and students with questions about the expansion, or ideas about how to best utilize this area, are encouraged to contact the Arboretum at ejcarboretum@jmu.edu.
Learn more about the expansion.
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. To see a highlights of the StoryWalk Project, view the video below. Video Credit: WHSV
Location: From the Family Garden, cross over the stone bridge to find the first page. It's also near the Troll on the John Clayton Trail.
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.
Current Book
Squirrel Nutkin
written and illustrated by Beatrix Potter
Join an adventure as the squirrels travel to Owl’s island to stock their nests with provisions for the coming winter. The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin written in 1903 is a cautionary story that includes real consequences for bad behavior.
Origins of the StoryWalk
Identification Station
Now for all ages!
Explore the Arboretum with themed activities and basic tools to support your outdoor adventure. This program is FREE. Backpacks are located in the lobby of the Frances Plecker Education Center, Monday - Friday (8 AM - 4 PM).
How It Works
Pick a Pack
The Explorer Backpacks are being updated for your 2025 Arboretum Adventures! We now have bags for learners of all ages!
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Preschool - Elementary
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Adult
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Checkout
Fill out our checkout form and leave a driver's license, car keys, or other unforgettable item with us to be picked up after backpack return.
Explore!
There is no limit! Enjoy the activities that come inside of your backpack and adventure onward!
Return Pack
Once your adventure is over, you can return your backpack(s). Return packs before the Education Center closes at 4 PM.
Grounds: Free to the public
Dawn to dusk | 365 days a year
Frances Plecker Education Center:
M-F | 8 AM - 4 PM
