Visit 04 · Forest walk · Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University · Boston, Massachusetts
Hemlock Hill at the Arnold Arboretum
Tsuga canadensis
- Walking
- 15–20 minute walks; mileage not published
- Terrain
- Rugged, muddy paths; not wheelchair accessible
- Fees
- Free landscape admission
View the Arboretum’s photographs of Hemlock Hill ↗
Get to know Hemlock.
Species reference photographs from the Tree Library, photographed elsewhere. Use several features and local guidance to identify a tree at this destination.
Arrival & parking
For the northern side of Hemlock Hill, enter through the South Street Gate and approach along Hemlock Hill Road. The western side is less than five minutes from the Bussey Street or Walter Street gates. The Arboretum suggests parking along Bussey Street or in front of the South Street Gate; obey current signs and neighborhood parking restrictions. Use the gate map tables for wayfinding.
Walking & terrain
The Arboretum recommends about 15 minutes for the dirt path around the base from the wooden bridge, about 20 minutes for the wide gravel route toward the hilltop, or up to an hour exploring smaller paths. Route mileage is not published in the reviewed guide. Hemlock Hill is explicitly not wheelchair accessible: terrain is rugged, can be muddy, and includes unmaintained dirt paths. For a gentler encounter, ask staff about a suitable roadside viewpoint along Hemlock Hill Road rather than assuming the hill paths are step-free.
Access, fees & seasons
The Arboretum landscape is free and open every day from sunrise to sunset. The hill is a living collection and woodland, with native eastern hemlock alongside other species; use plant labels and the collection guide to identify individuals. Respect planting beds and protective barriers, and check visitor notices before travelling. No champion title is assigned by this guide.
Sources checked