Northland Arboretum

About

Education. Recreation. Conservation.

Open dawn to dusk, seven days a week, the Northland Arboretum provides a peaceful, year-round escape for residents and visitors in the Brainerd Lakes Area. Whether you’re sitting in the gazebo, lingering on the bridge, strolling a woodland path, or gliding through snowy trails on skis, the Arb offers space to slow down and reconnect with nature, no matter how long your visit.

For more than 50 years, the Northland Arboretum has been a cherished community destination. This nature-focused nonprofit is dedicated to fostering meaningful connections between people, nature, and one another through conservation, education, and outdoor recreation. With over 400 acres of diverse landscapes and more than 12 miles of trail, the Arb is a magical place to explore in every season.

Designated as an Important Bird Area (IBA), the Arboretum is home to abundant wildlife and vibrant songbird populations, making it a favorite destination for birders, photographers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts. This unique oasis, nestled within the city, offers a rare blend of accessibility and immersion in nature.

Spring, Summer & Fall Experiences

Warmer months invite visitors to explore miles of scenic hiking trails, wander through volunteer-maintained gardens, and discover new corners of the Arb’s expansive grounds. Families will enjoy the nature playscape, where children can learn, explore, and play in a natural setting designed to inspire curiosity and creativity.

The Arboretum also serves as an outdoor classroom, offering classes and workshops for the community, local schools, and organizations. Throughout the year, visitors can take part in engaging programs and beloved community events, including the Free Arbor Day Community Celebration and the famously spooky Haunted Trail each fall.

A major new highlight is Central Minnesota’s largest bike skills park. Designed for riders of all ages and abilities, the park features:

-Beginner, intermediate, and advanced jump lines

-A tot track for young riders

-An adaptive bike trail for inclusive access

All trails are built on a crushed granite surface, creating a safe, welcoming, and exciting riding experience for everyone, from first-time riders to seasoned cyclists.

Winter Adventures

When winter arrives, the Northland Arboretum transforms into one of the area’s premier cold-weather destinations. Hiking trails become some of the region’s best groomed cross-country ski trails, offering:

-19 km of classic track-set skiing

-10 km of skate-ski trails

-5 km of lighted night skiing

Trails are primarily intermediate in difficulty and are groomed by the Brainerd Nordic Ski Club. A ski pass is required, and a parking fee applies.

Visitors can also explore the Arb on foot with snowshoe rentals available at the Visitor Center or enjoy a newly opened sledding hill for young children (lighted until 10PM), offering families a fun and accessible way to embrace Minnesota winters.

Adding to the Arb’s growing list of unique experiences is Minnesota’s first forest ice skating trail, a one-of-a-kind opportunity to glide through a wooded landscape and experience winter from a whole new perspective.

A Community Resource

Beyond recreation, the Northland Arboretum plays an important role in conservation and environmental stewardship in Central Minnesota. Through habitat protection, education, and community engagement, the Arb works to ensure that these natural spaces remain vibrant and accessible for future generations.

Visitors are encouraged to support the Arboretum’s mission by becoming members or making a donation. Membership helps sustain trails, programs, gardens, and conservation efforts while providing a meaningful way to stay connected to this special place.

To learn more about upcoming events, programs, and ways to get involved, visit www.northlandarb.org or follow the Northland Arboretum on social media.