Northland Arboretum
Education. Recreation. Conservation.
We are a member-supported nonprofit organization aimed at connecting our community to nature and protecting our natural environment. We are conveniently located in the middle of Brainerd/Baxter, Minnesota with plenty of natural space to explore. Make sure you set aside time to wander our expansive trail system and beautiful gardens. You won't be disappointed.
Northland Arboretum at a Glance
The Northland Arboretum is a must-see destination for visitors and residents of the Brainerd Lakes area. No matter the season, our hiking trails and Visitor Center provide an opportunity for you to learn and connect with nature.
OUR MISSION:
The Northland Arboretum strives to be a valued community asset providing outdoor recreation and educational activities for all while protecting the natural environment.
OUR VISION:
The Northland Arboretum will be the premier destination in Central Minnesota connecting people to the environment for the promotion of education, recreation and conservation.
Visit Us
The Northland Arboretum encompasses over 400 acres in the heart of Brainerd/Baxter, Minnesota. Our member-supported, non-profit organization was founded with the closure of the Brainerd Landfill in 1972. Left untouched, the 40-acre landfill site now supports a prairie restoration project that is full of native grasses, shrubs and trees.
Choose one of the ways we serve the Brainerd Lakes community to learn more about our educational opportunities, our recreational facilities, and conservation efforts.
Come Visit!
Visitor Center Hours
Monday - Friday: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday: 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
The grounds remain open to members and paying guests sunrise to sunset.
Gate fee is $5 per adult and $1 for each child under 15 years of age.
Guests are asked to stop in the Visitor Center to pay or use the self-pay station located at the entry kiosks.
Guests may display their daily pass on the dash of their vehicle so it is visible through the front windshield.
Compost Site
Compost Site is Open
Monday - Friday
9:00 - 4:00
Sunday-Saturday
9:00 - 3:30
Drop Off:
Please check into the visitor center
Drop off free for members $5.00 for non-members
To maintain the quality of our compost, please follow these rules:
- Grass clippings and leaves only
- No brush or lake weeds
- No branches or stumps
- Please take your bags with you
Compost Pick Up:
$10/yard (you load your own)
1 yard = 3x3x3
2 tractor scoops = 1 yard
Level back of truck full = 2 yards = $24.00
Trail Use
Gate Fee is $5/adult (ages 15 and up) and $1/child (ages 0-14). Memberships range from a yearly fee of $40 for an individual to $80 for a family.
More information about membership is available on the membership page.
The Arboretum grounds are open every day to members and guests from sun-up to sundown. After-hour gate fees can be paid at the drop boxes at the entrances of the grounds. Proof of purchase should be placed in your vehicle window of carried with you. Members should carry the membership card.
Restrooms are open until 10:00 p.m. on the west end of the Visitor Center.
Upcoming Classes & Events
Wed, May 31Baxter
Thu, Jun 01Baxter
Mon, Jun 05Baxter- Mon, Jun 05Baxter
Wed, Jun 07Baxter
- Sat, Jun 17Baxter
Mon, Jun 19Baxter
Thu, Jun 22Baxter
Sun, Jun 25Baxter
Contact Northland Arboretum
Get in touch with the Northland Arboretum to learn more about our work and how you can get involved.
14250 Conservation Drive | Brainerd, MN 56401
218-829-8770