Maps
Click to download maps as PDF files
Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Center offers about 14 miles of trails and roads to explore. Mountain slopes, meadows, a creek side walk, and wildflower paths – there are many different options. Come and try them all.
Out trails also connect to trails on the slope of Lookout Mountain maintained by the National Park Service. From the valley floor, use our trail system to connect with NPS trails to hike to Sunset Rock, Point Park, and Covenant College.
More on the Arboretum
According to the Tennessee Department of Agriculture, an arboretum is “… a place with an exhibit of trees (and other plants) for display or scientific study." The arboretum at Reflection Eiding concentrates on native tree species common to Southeast Tennessee.
The Tennessee Urban Forestry Council (TUFC) and the Tennessee Federation of Garden Clubs, Inc. (TFGC, Inc.) joined efforts in 2000 to certify Arboreta throughout the state of Tennessee. Under this program, Reflection Riding Arboretum and Nature Center is certified as a Level IV Arboretum, exceeding the criteria of140 identified and labeled tree species. In addition, we provide a tree map pamphlet with information on our tree collection for self-guided tours, Educational group tours of the arboretum are scheduled through the year.
Around the Visitors Center
Visitors Center Services & Facilities
- Donate or purchase your membership
- Plan your visit
- Restrooms
Mollie’s Garden
A model backyard garden with native wildflowers, shrubs and trees
Reptile & Amphibian Exhibit
Dudley Porter’s Children’s Playscape
David Fulmer Memorial Pollinator Garden
Native wildflowers and flowering shrubs that attract buttlerflies, hummingbirds and bees
Blue Heron Boardwalk
A wheel-chair accessible constructed boardwalk that take you to the Treehouse, Paddler’s Perch, & the Paddler’s Launch on Lookout Creek
Blue Heron Wetlands
This is a fascinating, ever-changing environment that supports numerous animal & bird species. It is common to see turtles, deer, hawks, the Great Blue Heron, & owls.
George Bryan Treehouse
Built surrounding a massive Overcup Oak tree, the Treehouse is a lovely venue used for birthdays and other celebrations. It has also been used for business meetings, weddings, and parties.
Lookout Creek Overlook
Watch carefully for nutria, beavers, herons, turtles and more. There are some nice sitting areas too.
Wild Animal Center
This is the home to about 40 native animals who have varying reasons that prohibit their release into the wild. They serve as our Animal Ambassadors who provide educational opportunities for us to learn more about them. The collection includes an eagles, hawks, owls, Evinrude the Bobcat, Todd the Fox and our seven Red Wolves.
Liz Alpin Trail
This is a short, convenient little trail adjacent to the Visitor Center.
Picnic Rocks
These large rocks provide a popular area to sit and enjoy a picnic. This is frequently used by visiting school groups.
Main entrance
Please pay attention to the closing hours as this gate will be locked.