It doesn’t matter if you are fascinated by plants of all kinds or you just love to take a stroll through gorgeous gardens, the University of Idaho Arboretum and Botanical Garden will become your paradise. This beautiful 63-acre destination is home to thousands of plants, remarkable water features, a well-maintained trail, and so much more. In fact, it is one of our favorite locations in the Gem State and you will want to check it out.

The U of I Arboretum and Botanical Garden is located on Palouse River Drive in Moscow.

Everything about this area is gorgeous, from the rolling hills of the Palouse surrounding the arboretum to the plants that live inside.

The arboretum was established in the 1970s by University of Idaho professors. These individuals were concerned about the diversity of plant life on the university’s campus and sought to establish an arboretum. After some time and lots of hard work, the first trees were finally planted on Easter Sunday in 1982.

Every inch of the 63-acre arboretum is impressive. Plant lovers can spend the entire day exploring and learning about more than 17,000 plants and 2,400 different taxa. You definitely will not want to rush through your visit.

Plus, the arboretum is carefully laid out and organized by geographical location. This makes it much easier to find or view specific plants.

One of the best ways to explore this small piece of paradise is on the wide 1.25-mile loop trail. But, be aware that this is a gravel trail and there are some steep inclines. Luckily, there are benches where you can sit, relax, and enjoy the extraordinary landscapes.

As you walk around the arboretum, give yourself plenty of time to sit next to the water features. You’ll find large ponds and streams that are not only beautiful but may even be home to some wildlife.

Don’t miss any of the bridges around the garden, either. They are quite enchanting and the perfect places to capture a few photos.

It doesn’t matter the season you visit - the entire year is beautiful at this Idaho arboretum. In the spring, you can view the hostas and the lilacs, and in autumn, you can enjoy vibrant fall foliage that will make you swoon.

The University of Idaho Arboretum and Botanical Garden truly is a little bit of paradise in Idaho. It is one breathtaking destination that everyone should visit at least once.

The arboretum is open from dawn to dusk each day and admission is free. You can access an arboretum map on the University of Idaho website.

Have you spent time at the University of Idaho Arboretum and Botanical Garden? What did you love most about this little piece of paradise on the U of I’s campus? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

If you haven’t spent much time in Moscow, add this small town to your bucket list right away! This is one of the best small-town vacation destinations in America.