Ever wondered what it’s like to stroll high above the forest floor with nothing but treetops all around?
There’s a hidden gem in Pennsylvania where you can do just that—no hiking boots or climbing ropes required.
This incredible canopy walkway takes you high above the ground, where you’ll find yourself at eye-level with the birds and surrounded by gently swaying leaves.
It’s the perfect spot to take in the beauty of the forest from a whole new perspective (and take some unforgettable photos while you’re at it).
Ready to find out where this treetop adventure awaits? Keep reading and prepare to add another place to your bucket list!
Where Is It?
The canopy walkway is located at Morris Arboretum & Gardens in the Chestnut Hill neighborhood of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
It’s roughly a 30-minute drive from downtown Philly, about 1.5 hours from Harrisburg, and less than 2 hours from New York City, making it an easy day trip.
About
Morris Arboretum & Gardens is a 92-acre botanical wonderland packed with rare trees, colorful gardens, and, of course, the canopy walkway.
The star of the show here is the Out on a Limb Tree Adventure, a 450-foot-long canopy walkway that takes you 50 feet up!
(At the time of writing, Out on a Limb Tree Adventure is temporarily closed for renovations, so check online before planning your visit.)
The walkway winds its way through giant oaks, maples, and other towering trees, giving you front-row seats to some of the oldest residents of the arboretum.
One of the highlights along the path is a large, hammock-like net platform that stretches out over the forest.
It’s a bouncy, slightly daring spot where you can sprawl out, peer down at the forest floor below, and feel like you’re part of the wildlife.
You’ll also cross a swaying suspension bridge that adds just the right amount of thrill—exciting but not too intense.
Best part? The entire walkway is sturdy, safe, and spacious, so whether you’re with kids, friends, or on your own, you can enjoy it at your own pace.
Whether it’s summer’s lush greenery, fall’s fiery colors, or winter’s bare branches revealing the architecture of the trees, the views here are always worth the trip.
Other Things To Do
Once you’ve soaked up those treetop views, don’t even think about heading for the exit—Morris Arboretum & Gardens has way more to explore on the ground level.
First up, check out the Rose Garden, which dates back to the early 1900s and explodes with color and fragrance during peak bloom season.
You’ll see rows upon rows of perfectly pruned roses in every shade imaginable—it’s the kind of place you’ll want to linger in, camera in hand.
Next, head to the Fernery, the only Victorian fernery left in North America, where lush greenery creates a mini jungle.
Inside, you’ll find a steamy glasshouse filled with exotic ferns, trickling water features, and stone pathways.
If you’re into sculpture and a bit of history, don’t miss the unique art installations and shaded spots at Sculpture Garden.
Speaking of shade, you’ll also want to stroll through the Japanese Hill and Water Garden—the definition of zen.
It offers peaceful ponds, arched bridges, and carefully placed stones and plants designed to reflect traditional Japanese landscaping.
Traveling with kids (or just young at heart)? Start with the Out on a Limb exhibit, then swing by the Garden Railway.
It’s a quarter-mile outdoor model train track designed with miniature trains chugging through tunnels, bridges, and past tiny Philly landmarks.
If you love trees, Morris Arboretum has some of the state’s largest and rarest specimens, like a massive katsura and an English elm that’s stood tall since the 1800s.
The Tree Adventure Map is perfect for guiding you to the standout trees if you’re on a mission to spot them all.
Wrap it all up with a relaxing stroll through the Wetlands, where wooden boardwalks lead through marshy spots filled with native plants and wildlife.
Basically, whether you’re here for flowers, trees, art, or just a long, leisurely walk, there’s no shortage of ways to fill your day.
Know Before You Go
Address:
Morris Arboretum & Gardens
100 E Northwestern Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19118
Hours:
The arboretum welcomes visitors from 10 AM to 4 PM, but the last entry is at 3 PM, so don’t show up fashionably late!
They’re closed on major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day, so double-check the calendar before you plan.
Tickets:
Here’s what admission will set you back:
- Adults (18 and above): $22
- Seniors (65+): $20
- Youth (3-17): $12
- Kids under 3: Free
Pro tip: If you book online, you save $2 on the above fees!
Parking:
No need to stress about parking—it’s free and there’s plenty of it right near the entrance.
Accessibility:
The arboretum has paved paths throughout much of the grounds, and the Out on a Limb canopy walkway is fully accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
Best Time to Visit:
Spring and fall steal the show—picture cherry blossoms, tulips, and vibrant blooms in spring, then jaw-dropping foliage in autumn.
That said, there’s beauty here year-round.
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