Boyce Thompson Arboretum
Desert plants from around the world grow beneath Picketpost Mountain along shaded creek, cactus, heritage-tree, and high-desert trails.
Artwork inspired by Effie Anderson Smith
Arizona’s oldest and largest botanical garden uses Queen Creek Canyon to compare dryland floras from Australia, Africa, Asia, the Americas, and the Mediterranean. Historic structures and irrigation show how the collection developed, while native habitat attracts exceptional birds.
The main loop is longer and rougher than a compact city garden, with elevation, exposed segments, and seasonal water. Begin early, download the map, and select collections rather than racing the full acreage in summer.
- Founded
- 1924
- Setting
- Queen Creek Canyon
- Allow
- 3–4 hours
Quick guide
- Anchor
- Picketpost Mountain
- Second focus
- Cactus Garden ↔ Eucalyptus forest
How to read Boyce Thompson Arboretum on site
- Take main loop
- Use it to understand the canyon and collection layout.
- Compare regions
- Look for convergent dryland adaptations.
- Listen for birds
- Creek and canopy concentrate wildlife.
- Watch terrain
- Save steep side trails for cool conditions.
Good to know
Summer schedules can be shortened and temperatures exceed those implied by tree shade. Dogs are allowed under specific rules but hot surfaces and wildlife make timing essential.
Notice these
- Picketpost Mountain
- Cactus Garden
- Eucalyptus forest