New Jersey is home to dozens of gorgeous gardens. Some are quite popular, including the New Jersey State Botanical Garden At Skylands, Deep Cut Gardens, Presby Memorial Iris Gardens, Greenwood Gardens, and the Leonard J. Buck Garden. I’ve covered each of these incredible spots over the years but I recently came across a hidden gem that I just had to share.

Hartshorn Arboretum and Bird Sanctuary got its start back in 1923 when 16.5 acres of land was gifted to Cora Hartshorn.
Facebook/Cora Hartshorn Aboretum
She designed a series of walking paths and trails totaling approximately three miles. When she passed away in 1958, she willed her property to the township. In 2002, restoration efforts began.
Facebook/Cora Hartshorn Aboretum
The grounds are open to visitors free of charge. Trails range from easy-moderate and can be hilly in some places. Still, all trails are manageable for most.
Facebook/Cora Hartshorn Arboretum
The arboretum contains 45 species of trees, including 275-year-old tulip trees, as well as rare ferns, over 150 species of wildflowers, and 100 species of birds. There's a wildflower preserve, rhododendron dell, and more!
Facebook/Cora Hartshorn Aboretum

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You'll also find unique geological features, such as kettle moraines and a natural amphitheater created by glaciers. The arboretum has a unique topography that creates many micro-habitats, allowing great diversity in flora and fauna in a relatively small area.
Facebook/Cora Hartshorn Aboretum
You can learn about those habitats at the Stone House. There are animal exhibits, including mounted specimens of birds and mammals, and a small collection of live animals.
Facebook/Cora Hartshorn Aboretum
Perhaps one of the best parts of this park is the programming! There are clubs and camps for kids and adults alike. They are all about exploration and hands on activities.
Facebook/Cora Hartshorn Arboretum
Upcoming activities include a guided hike on April 15th and a family camp out on May 19th. Dinner and a continental breakfast provided, as well as some great activities including a night hike, firelight stories, and other surprises.
Facebook/Cora Hartshorn Arboretum

Not only can you visit, you can become a citizen scientist! Help observe birds, plants, frogs, and more. To learn more about the volunteer program, and all the arboretum has to offer, you can check out their website by clicking here. Visit the Cora Hartshorn Arboretum at 324 Forest Drive South, Short Hills. Their hours are Mon-Fri 9am-4:30pm, Saturday 9am-4pm, and Sunday 10am-4pm. To discover other incredible gardens all over New Jersey, click here.

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