{"id":6530,"date":"2025-05-01T10:11:40","date_gmt":"2025-05-01T14:11:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cah.ucf.edu\/imprint\/?p=6530"},"modified":"2025-05-01T10:11:40","modified_gmt":"2025-05-01T14:11:40","slug":"ucfs-arboretum-helping-knights-foster-connections-with-nature-each-other","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cah.ucf.edu\/imprint\/ucfs-arboretum-helping-knights-foster-connections-with-nature-each-other\/","title":{"rendered":"UCF’s Arboretum: Helping Knights Foster Connections with Nature & Each Other"},"content":{"rendered":"

by Khushi Patel<\/p>\n

Nestled in the heart of campus, UCF\u2019s Arboretum<\/a> is somehow one of the most active yet underrated parts of our community. Established in 1983, the Arboretum was created to provide a space where people can learn more about the natural wonders around us. This organization has since grown to include countless programs, events, and opportunities \u2014\u00a0all conveniently located on campus. The Arboretum strives to teach us about the value of ecosystems and biodiversity through hands-on learning experiences and community engagement.<\/p>\n

Sights<\/strong><\/h3>\n

The Arboretum also manages UCF\u2019s nature trails<\/a>,<\/a> 14 miles of natural Florida scenery located across from Gemini Blvd. With 20 unique habitat types, these trails have rich variations in color and terrain, providing an escape from the monotony of day-to-day life. They offer a (literal) breath of fresh air from daily worries, and during finals season, you\u2019ll often find students pacing along them to decompress from the chaos of exams.\"\"

For Srithanvi Pasunuri, a senior Biomedical Sciences major, this on-campus oasis is more than a scenic walk \u2014 it\u2019s a way to improve your mental and physical health. Last spring, she planned a hiking social at the Arboretum\u2019s nature trails for UCF\u2019s American Medical Women\u2019s Association (AMWA), a pre-health student organization. \u201cI chose to host a social at the Arboretum with AMWA because I know a lot of our members sometimes get caught up in all that they have to do in their daily lives, and may not take the time to go outside and do something relaxing for themselves,\u201d Pasunuri shared.<\/p>\n

Members who attended the event appreciated the convenience: the close proximity of the trails allowed them to stay close to campus while still feeling \u201ccompletely immersed in nature.\u201d Finding their hiking social to be a relaxing experience, AMWA continues to promote the Arboretum to their members as \u201can escape from busy college life.\u201d\"\"

During their hike, they walked along Wildflower Loop, one of the several peaceful trails<\/a> that wind through the preserved grounds. With its stunning wildflowers and even terrain, it\u2019s a great beginner trail to reconnect with nature. The Arboretum offers several guided tours<\/a>,<\/a> providing visitors the opportunity to explore these natural trails with the guidance of knowledgeable staff. Registered student organizations and UCF-affiliated groups can schedule these for free online.<\/a> During a guided tour, you can expect to learn about the diverse plant and animal life native to our local ecosystem. Whether you are a seasoned environmentalist or someone looking to reconnect with the natural world, these trails provide the perfect introduction.<\/p>\n

Events<\/strong><\/h3>\n

Found behind the CREOL building, the entrance to the Arboretum\u2019s main location features a lush, open area speckled with picnic benches. Fondly called Arboretum Park, this space often serves as a venue for events.<\/p>\n