16-acre nature sanctuary with woodland trails, a three-story Tree House with bird's-eye forest views, butterfly garden, and sensory garden. After-school nature education classes, summer camps, and seasonal family events focused on environmental stewardship. Founded 1923.
Parents love Cora Hartshorn Arboretum, with a 4.4-star rating from 213 reviews on Google.
1. Walkability – A wonderful spot for a peaceful, refreshing walk. I came for the first time, and it was already a little chilly with the first signs of fall—the leaves just starting to drop. At the entrance, I picked up a trail map, which made exploring easy. 2. Photography – A great place to capture nature! I spotted many chipmunks and even a few deer, along with some lovely flowers. Perfect for nature and wildlife photos. 3. Maintenance – The grounds are well-kept, and the staff is very friendly. Everything feels cared for. 4. Parking – There’s no on-site parking, so you’ll need to park along the street nearby. 5. Admission – Free entry to enjoy the trails, which makes it even better. 6. Hours – Open every day, so you can visit whenever it fits your schedule. ✨ Overall – A hidden gem for a relaxing walk and some nature photography. I’ll definitely be coming back in autumn to enjoy the vibrant colors of the season.
Amazing place with extremely kind, knowledgeable, and helpful staff. If you have any nature related questions, one of them is sure to know the answer. Multiple native animals inside the building, including some neat snakes and even owls. Bunnies are really sweet as well. The trails are well maintained and pleasant, with the overall forest not being too big. Perfect for a walk. Nice in all seasons! Definitely would recommend. Great vibes.
As a nature photographer and a parent, I cannot recommend Cora Hartshorn Arboretum and Bird Sanctuary enough! This preserve is an absolute gem, and it is one of the best places in New Jersey to explore nature with your family. The knowledgeable and friendly staff is always on hand to answer questions and guide visitors through the beautiful sunlit hiking trails. Whether you're an experienced hiker or a novice, the staff will help you find the perfect trail for your skill level and interests. The indoor animal exhibits are a must-see. They're beautifully designed and provide an up-close look at some of the animals that call the preserve home. From mammals to reptiles and amphibians, the exhibits are educational and engaging for visitors of all ages. Outside, the nature-themed play area is a fantastic way to encourage children to explore and connect with the natural world. It's beautifully designed and a great way to get kids excited about spending time outdoors. Cora Hartshorn Arboretum and Bird Sanctuary also hosts birthday parties, which is a great way to celebrate a child's special day while encouraging them to learn about and appreciate nature. The bathroom facilities are family-friendly and available for visitors, making this preserve a great option for families with young children. Overall, I would give Cora Hartshorn Arboretum and Bird Sanctuary a five-star rating without hesitation. This preserve is a true treasure, and it's an essential destination for anyone who wants to teach their children about the natural world and the environment.
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Cora Hartshorn Arboretum is open Trails: dawn–dusk, Building: varies.
Cora Hartshorn Arboretum is located at 324 Forest Dr S, Short Hills, NJ 07078 in Short Hills, NJ.
Cora Hartshorn Arboretum is Free–$ price range. Contact them for current pricing and admission details.
Yes, Cora Hartshorn Arboretum is a public park with free admission. It's a great budget-friendly activity.
Most paths at Cora Hartshorn Arboretum are accessible, but check current conditions before visiting.
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