Rhododendrons might be blooming as we stroll with our guide Tom Shotzbarger. For more than 40 years, conservationists Dr. Lee and Virginia Graver, cleared briar patches, dense brush, and woods to create an environment conducive for wildflowers, ferns, rhododendrons, and native and rare trees including more than 150 species of conifers.

The Gravers donated these 63-acres of beauty to Muhlenberg College in 1994. To ensure its long-term care and upkeep, the Gravers established an endowment fund for the Arboretum in 1995. Future generations of Muhlenberg students, faculty and visitors can enjoy the splendor of this precious natural laboratory. The property protects some plant species of concern and contains eight ponds.

Wear comfortable walking shoes. The property is fairly level, and the trails are well-maintained. There are several clusters of picnic tables throughout the Arboretum. Most of the site is shady. Bring bug repellent, sunscreen, and your silly sun hat. A portable bathroom is near the parking lot in summer.

This walk is part of the Get Out! For Wellness series, in partnership with Lehigh Valley Health Network.

ADDRESS: Graver Arboretum, 1581 Bushkill Center Road, Bath PA 18014 GPS: 40.80046, -75.36352

DIRECTIONS: Take US Route 22 to Route 512 North. Follow Rt. 512 for about 11.3 miles. At the traffic light (Exxon station) turn left onto Bushkill Center Road. At the white church, bear left. Go 0.6 miles to the entrance on your left at 1581 Bushkill Center Rd. Look for the small sign “Graver Arboretum” close to the road. Turn in here and follow the narrow gravel lane to large gravel parking lot behind the barn.

Questions: Arianna Kohler, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it