Park City Museum | Park City

The WVU Core Arboretum is a 90-acre botanical garden and natural area located within the city limits of Morgantown, West Virginia.

Visual Characteristics

The arboretum features a diverse collection of native and exotic trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants. Trails wind through mature deciduous forests, open meadows, and along the banks of Deckers Creek. The terrain is varied, with some areas featuring gentle slopes and others steeper inclines. Plant species are identified with permanent labels.

Location & Access Logistics

The arboretum is situated approximately 2 miles south of downtown Morgantown. Access is via WV-7 (University Avenue) heading south. Turn right onto Arboretum Drive. A dedicated parking lot is available at the main entrance. Public transport options include the PRT (Personal Rapid Transit) system, with the nearest station being the "Medical Center" station, followed by a 1-mile walk or short taxi ride. Bus routes serving University Avenue may also be an option, requiring a walk to the arboretum entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Established in 1948, the WVU Core Arboretum was developed by West Virginia University's Division of Forestry. Its purpose was to serve as an outdoor laboratory for research, education, and public enjoyment of plant diversity. Ecologically, it represents a mixed mesophytic forest ecosystem, characteristic of the Appalachian region.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can walk the 3 miles of marked trails, including the paved accessible loop and the more rugged forest trails. Birdwatching is a common activity. Educational signage provides information on plant identification and ecological relationships. Photography of flora and fauna is permitted.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available at the main entrance building. Limited shaded areas are present along the trails, primarily provided by the tree canopy. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available throughout the arboretum, though it may be weaker in denser forested areas. No food vendors are located within the arboretum; visitors should bring their own provisions.

Best Time to Visit

For optimal plant viewing, the months of April through October are recommended. Spring (April-May) offers blooming flowers and new foliage. Autumn (September-October) provides fall color. Mid-morning (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM) and late afternoon (3:00 PM - 5:00 PM) offer softer lighting conditions for photography. No specific tide requirements apply.

Facts & Legends

A notable feature is the collection of over 1,000 species of woody plants, making it one of the most comprehensive collections in the region. Local lore sometimes refers to the area as a place where specific medicinal plants, used by indigenous peoples, can still be found if one knows where to look.

Nearby Landmarks

• West Virginia University Downtown Campus (1.5km Northwest)
• Morgantown History Museum (1.8km Northwest)
• Monongahela River (2.5km West)
• Coopers Rock State Forest (15km East - outside 5km radius, but significant regional attraction)