Autumn is here and the green summer leaves are about to change to beautiful shades of yellow, orange, and red. What better time to get out and explore an arboretum? If you reside in Massachusetts, you may have visited the Arnold Arboretum in Boston and perhaps even the Acton Arboretum in Acton. But have you heard about the Hadwen Arboretum? I just discovered this fantastic hidden spot, and I can’t wait to tell you all about it!

The Hadwen Arboretum is located in Worcester, Massachusetts, and is owned by Clark University. The university was gifted the land from local horticulturist Obadiah Hadwen.
Hadwen Arboretum at Clark University/Google Reviews
The property is just a short walk from the university's main campus.
The Arboretum contains 26 acres of beautiful outdoor space. A walk along the scenic Appleton and Magnolia Trail is a beautiful hike any time of year.
Hadwen Arboretum at Clark University/Google Reviews
This one-mile loop is an easy walk that should take under half an hour to complete.
The Arboretum can also be hiked as part of Worcester’s 14-mile East-West Trail.
Clark's Hadwen Arboretum/Facebook
There are over 66 species of trees on the property, including some unusual varieties and others planted more than a century ago.
Clark's Hadwen Arboretum/Facebook
Many of the trees along the trail have markers that identify their species.
The property is also a great place to bird-watch. A local birdwatching group spotted almost a dozen different species of birds here during one visit.
Clark's Hadwen Arboretum/Facebook
You will definitely want to bring a good pair of binoculars and a handy birdwatching guide with you when you visit!
In addition to being a gorgeous hiking destination, the Hadwen Arboretum serves as a research and educational space. It is supported by the university and student volunteers as well as other environmental organizations.
Clark's Hadwen Arboretum/Facebook
Throughout the year, these groups put on fun, educational events, many of which are open to the public. This terrarium-building activity was a big hit!

Have you visited this hidden arboretum at Clark University? Please tell us about your experience. More information about the Hadwen Arboretum can be found on the Clark University website and Clarke’s Hadwen Arboretum Facebook page.

If you are visiting Worcester for the day, be sure to grab a delicious hot dog at the iconic George’s Coney Island diner or visit the Hangover Pub bacon-themed restaurant.

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Hadwen Arboretum at Clark University, 215 Lovell St, Worcester, MA 01603, USA