By Alice Soewito

Welcome back to Cornell!  During Homecoming Weekend, on October 5, 2019, and October 6, 2019, Cornell Botanic Gardens is offering a series of special tours for alumni and their families.See below for the full schedule and details.

You can also take a self-guided tour of the gardens or arboretum by calling a number found on signs throughout the gardens, or use your smart phone to tour by downloading the “PocketSights” app and follow a Google-driven map that provides images and information at points of interest along the route (available from the iTunes Store or Google Play).

SCHEDULE OF TOURS:

Saturday, October 5, 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Cascadilla Gorge Hike

Join us for this guided hike to learn about the cultural and natural history of the Cascadilla Gorge Trail, the iconic greenway connecting campus with downtown Ithaca. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. The round-trip one mile hike is moderately strenuous and involves some steep stair climbing.  Meet at the College Avenue entrance to the trail, located at the northeast corner of the  Schwartz Performing Arts Center.

Saturday, October 5, 2:00 – 3:30 p.m.

Autumn Tree Walk

Enjoy an autumn walk through the F.R. Newman Arboretum —  Cornell’s premiere collection of trees and shrubs. The arboretum’s diverse collections, including nut trees, crabapples, oaks, maples, shrubs, and urban trees, comprise a 100-acre pastoral setting with two large ponds, numerous foot paths, and scenic overlooks. Our arborist will introduce you to some outstanding specimens of native trees as well as species imported from similar climate zones around the world. Walk will be held rain or shine.  Meet by the Sculpture Garden, in the central portion of the Arboretum.

Sunday, October 6, 10:00 – 11:00 a.m.

Botanic Gardens Tour

Relax with a guided tour through the botanic gardens and discover the beauty and diversity of our numerous themed plant collections. This one-hour tour will highlight the Robison Herb Garden, Young Flower Garden, Bioswale Garden, Groundcover Collection, Mullestein Winter Garden, and more. Afterwards, you can browse the Gift Shop and exhibits in the Nevin Welcome Center.  Meet at the Nevin Welcome Center.