WVU Core Arboretum

The Core Arboretum. 

WVU's botanical garden. 

By: Sarah Tropkoff

MORGANTOWN, W.Va - Everyone here at West Virginia University knows that 70 degree weather in the first week of November is something to take advantage of by being outside.

One hidden activity I recently found was the WVU’s Core Arboretum; where I was able to explore with my friends the beautiful nature West Virginia University has to offer.

The Core Arboretum is a botanical garden home to several hundred species of native WV trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants.

With the seasons changing this Core Arboretum is a great place to experience nature first hand with the 3 miles of foot trails.

There are many trails to hike through leading out to the rail trail and through to the Monongahela River. The trails are easily accessible and guided by markers. The trails are maintained yet, nature seems to build the real pathway. 

If you happened to follow the rail trail you will find yourself at my new favorite spot, The Terra Cafe which I found while journeying from the Arboretum. 

"The Arboretum has wonderful areas where you can take the time to appreciate nature and take it all in."

The trails are perfect for beginner to intermediate hikers because some of the trails are steep. Thus, I advise wearing flat, closed toed shoes.

The Arboretum has wonderful areas where you can take the time to appreciate nature and take it all in. There are multiple benches and areas to have a picnic or to just stop and relax.

With the seasons changing it is the perfect time to get outside and experience all the beautiful fall colors. That being said, with the leaves falling the trails were extremely slippery walking down the hillside, be careful and cautious.

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Additional Information: 

Contact: 304-293-0387 Zach Fowler, WVU Arboretum Director 

Web Link: http://arboretum.wvu.edu