Herrontown Woods Arboretum
There's one tree, two trees, three trees, thousands of trees at Herrontown Woods Arboretum, 142-acres of undeveloped landscape.
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Some things are best left to their natural state. That’s pretty much the case with Herrontown Woods Arboretum. This 142 acre woods, which once belonged to one of Princeton University’s most prestigious math profs, is thick with woods and copses of trees. More than 30 species of trees, shrubs and wildflowers are scattered along the trails that wind through the Arboretum.

Mostly you’ll see oak, American beech, swamp maple and pine trees but there are other green-growies here. And if you aren’t sure what you are looking at, there are markers throughout Herrontown Woods that give you a few details about the various species.

As for birds, warblers and deep-forest birds are all over the place. Just bring your binoculars and look up. You are bound to see something.

There are roughly two miles of trails that will give you a good, but not exhausting, workout. The inclines are gradual and there is nothing too steep so it is good for beginner and intermediate hikers. Just be aware that there aren’t any other facilities -- no restrooms, picnic facilities or food stands. But with acre after acre of leafy, mature trees who needs snack stands.
 

BRING THE FAMILY

If you need amenities, such as food, restrooms or other services, the closest are about 1 1/2 miles away so keep that in mind if you are thinking about bringing young kids. 

COME PREPARED

To follow the trails, you'll have to use stepping stones to cross a shallow creek so you'll need rubber-soled, waterproof boots or shoes.

WHO KNEW

Deep in the heart of the arboretum is an old cottage that belonged to Professor Veblen, a world-famous math professor at Princeton. Rumor has it that the great Albert Einstein, who was friends with Veblen, often spent time here.

VOLUNTEER

You can help maintain trails, provide administrative support or help out in a dozen different ways. To volunteer, contact (609) 448-4947.

TAKE PUBLIC TRANSIT

NJ Transit Bus 605 or 606 to Princeton Shopping Center and walk approximately 1.5 miles to Snowden Lane.

LEAVE NO TRACE

Don't disturb any habitats or nests. It is somebody's home. And of course, if you bring anything in with you, take it right back out when you leave. 

CONTACT INFO
Snowden Lane and Herrontown Road
Princeton, NJ 08540

(609) 989-6559
nj.gov/counties/mercer/commissions/park/herrontown.html
Primary County: Mercer
 
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