The Conifer Walk Member Trail Mixer invites members of The Morton Arboretum to experience the peace and beauty of winter on Saturday, February 28, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Discover the unique characteristics of conifers as you pause to explore the diverse trees along the Conifer Walk. Uncover their quiet beauty through the stories, legends, and history that surround them.
Arboretum members will enjoy activities and a guided hike centered around the fully ADA-accessible Conifer Walk.
Docent-led guided hikes leave every thirty minutes from Arbor Court, starting at 10:30 a.m. The last hike leaves Arbor Court at 1:30 p.m. Hikes follow a path approximately half of a mile long and take about 45 minutes to complete.
Whether you’re new to the Arboretum or have visited many times before, this free event is a great way to connect with fellow members and explore some of the Arboretum’s 16-mile network of trails.
Highlights
Explore the Arboretum
See, touch, and smell the unique characteristics of conifers at an interactive interpretation station in the Visitor Center.
Grab a map and head off to explore the Conifer Walk on your own, or sign up for a docent-led hike. Hike registration is available on a first-come, first-served basis in the Visitor Center on the morning of Saturday, February 28.
Warm up in The Sterling Morton Library with a conifer-themed children’s storytime and craft session hosted by Arboretum staff and volunteers. Sessions begin at 11:00 a.m., 12:00 p.m., and 1:00 p.m. and do not require advance registration. Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Complimentary Snacks and Discounts
Check in at the welcome table in the Visitor Center on Saturday, February 28, to pick up a Conifer Walk Member Trail Mixer map, a complimentary drink and snack (while supplies last), and to be entered in a surprise drawing.
Arboretum members receive a discount coupon for 10% off a purchase made at the Ginkgo Café and the Ginkgo Restaurant. Discount coupons are valid on Saturday, February 28, only. Tree Advocate-level members and above receive 15% off.
Parking
The closest parking is available in parking lot P-1, near the Visitor Center. Docent-led hikes will leave from Arbor Court, just south of the Visitor Center.
Registration
The Conifer Walk Member Trail Mixer is a free, drop-in event open exclusively to Arboretum members.
Day-of on-site registration will be available for docent-led hikes. Register for any of the day’s seven hikes at the Member Trail Mixer welcome table in the Visitor Center on Saturday, February 28, starting at 10:00 a.m. Hikes are available on a first-come, first-served basis as capacity is limited. Members may register for spots equal to the admit number of their membership level. Tree Advocate, Thornhill Society, and President’s Council members may register for up to six spots.
Hikes leave every thirty minutes from Arbor Court starting at 10:30 a.m. The last hike leaves at 1:30 p.m. Hikes will follow a path approximately half of a mile long and take about 45 minutes to complete.
A Conifer Walk Member Trail Mixer map marked with special points of interest will be available to participants who opt for a self-guided experience.
Your membership supports the Arboretum’s vision of a greener, healthier, more beautiful world where people and trees thrive together.
