Visitor and Volunteer Information
The Cowling Arboretum is open to public use year round. The Cannon River is a popular fishing spot, and the upland and lowland forests along with the 150 acre prairie restoration provide excellent bird and wildlife watching opportunities. Among the species of note is the endangered tall-grass prairie specialist Henslow Sparrow (Ammodramus henslowii). Cowling Arboretum boasts an extensive 15-mile trail system that has been ranked by Runner's Magazine as the top place to run in Minnesota, and one of the top 10 in the country. In the winter trails are groomed for both classic and skate skiing. The Arboretum is a delightful place to walk any time of the year.
Visitor Use Rules
Visitor rules in the Arboretum.Arb Location & Maps
Volunteer Activities
Announcements of work events for volunteers and the arb crewField Trips
Information on public field trips in the Arboretum and McKnight Prairie.Winter Recreation
Links to information on recreational activities in the Arb.Common Trees of the Arboretum
Link to the tree guide and instructions on how to print it.Arboretum Bird Checklist
Link to the bird checklist and instructions on how to print it.Arboretum Guide
Interpretive guide developed by Mark Luterra '07Group Use
Details of requesting group use of the arb.Research and Class Use Permits
Information for researchers, class instructors and other users on how to apply for a research or use permitArchery Hunt
Information on the deer management archery hunt in the arboretum.Poisonous Plant Alert!
Information about wild parsnip and how to avoid it.Geocaching and Letterboxing
Guidelines on Geocaching and Letterboxing at Carleton College.
