Tours and Explorations

FOR ADULTS 18+ Listen, watch, and discover the birds of Tyler Arboretum. Explore Tyler’s forests and meadows with birders Sara Boucas Neto, Chuck Root, and Dave Eberly. Hear the calls, spot the birds, and experience this Audubon-recognized Important Bird Area firsthand. Gates open at 7:45 am. The group leaves promptly from the parking lot at 8:10 am. Please arrive on time. Check in with your guide in the parking lot. Restrooms will be open. What to expect: All levels of birding experience welcome. We will be walking at a slow, birders’ pace. Walking surfaces that include pavement, grass, gravel, and uneven trails. Changes in grade,

FOR ADULTS 18+ Start your Friday on the right foot with an invigorating one-hour hike through Tyler’s gardens and into the wilder natural areas beyond the deer exclusion fence. Designed as a moderate cardio workout, we’ll cover about 2½ to 3 miles at a fast pace—but don’t worry, we’ll also take time to pause for those unexpected moments nature has in store. Gates open at 7:45 am The group leaves promptly from the parking lot at 8:10 am. Please arrive on time. Check in with your experienced guide in the parking lot. Restrooms will be open. What to expect on

FOR ADULTS & TEENS AGES 10-17 Discover the birds of Tyler Arboretum on a guided walk through forests and meadows with the Valley Forge Audubon Society. Listen for songs and calls, watch for movement in the trees, and experience the wonders of this Audubon-recognized Important Bird Area up close. All levels of birding experience welcome. Gates open at 7:45 am. Check in with your guide on the Visitor Center patio. Group leaves from the parking lot at 8:00 am; please arrive on time. Restrooms will be open. What to expect: We will be walking at a slow, birders’ pace. Walking

FOR ALL AGES Life at the pond is always changing. From the deck of Tyler’s pond, spot frogs, turtles, and tadpoles drifting among the vegetation. Watch water striders skate across the surface and dragonflies zoom through the air. Use a magnifying glass to explore water samples and discover tiny creatures hiding in the pond. If conditions are favorable, observe some water samples under a microscope for an even closer look! About your guide: Sue Fredrick is a long-time Tyler volunteer and naturalist. She is an experienced Tyler docent and a certified PA Master Naturalist. PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED  What to expect: This program is

For Adults (18+) and Teens ages 12-17  Explore the Arboretum with wildflower expert Dick Cloud. Slow down and look closely at what’s growing along meadows, wooded paths, and occasional streamside spots. Enjoy the simple pleasure of seeing the landscape in detail and notice the Arboretum with fresh eyes. In July and August, discover the Arboretum’s vibrant summer wildflowers. All levels of experience are welcome. Check in at the Visitor Center and then meet your guide. Group departs from the Visitor Center at 11 am, please be on time All youth must be accompanied by an adult. What to expect: Moderate, 2–3

FOR ADULTS AND TEENS AGES 12-17 A leisurely-paced tour with collection highlights, gardens, and a bit of Tyler history.  Discover the beauty of Tyler’s northern collections as you travel from Magnolia Field, through the Native Woodland walk, stop at Lucille’s Garden, and end your journey at the Pollinator Preserve. Along the way, you’ll learn how climate, water management, and the plants themselves all play a role in the collections and the broader ecosystem. About your guide: Since retiring from Penn Dental Medicine, Dr. Woody Kotch reignited his passion for the natural world. Through training at Tyler, the PA Master Naturalist program, the Xerces

FOR ADULTS 18+ Listen, watch, and discover the birds of Tyler Arboretum. Explore Tyler’s forests and meadows with birders Sara Boucas Neto, Chuck Root, and Dave Eberly. Hear the calls, spot the birds, and experience this Audubon-recognized Important Bird Area firsthand. Gates open at 7:45 am. The group leaves promptly from the parking lot at 8:10 am. Please arrive on time. Check in with your guide in the parking lot. Restrooms will be open. What to expect: All levels of birding experience welcome. We will be walking at a slow, birders’ pace. Walking surfaces that include pavement, grass, gravel, and uneven trails. Changes in grade,

FOR ADULTS 18+ Start your Friday on the right foot with an invigorating one-hour hike through Tyler’s gardens and into the wilder natural areas beyond the deer exclusion fence. Designed as a moderate cardio workout, we’ll cover about 2½ to 3 miles at a fast pace—but don’t worry, we’ll also take time to pause for those unexpected moments nature has in store. Gates open at 7:45 am The group leaves promptly from the parking lot at 8:10 am. Please arrive on time. Check in with your experienced guide in the parking lot. Restrooms will be open. What to expect on

For Adults (18+) and Teens ages 15 – 17 Discover Pink Hill: a globally rare serpentine barrens! Join us for a guided hike to Delaware County’s last remaining serpentine barren. Explore its unique geology, rare plants, and fascinating history—from continental collisions to early human activity. In mid-July, we hope to see Philadelphia Wood Lilies in bloom, a bright reddish-orange flower not often seen in our area. The program begins promptly at 9:30 am. Please arrive on time. Park at Tyler’s Serpentine Barrens on Barren Road—NOT at the Visitor Center. Gates open at 9:15 am Driving directions to the Barrens from Tyler’s

FOR ALL AGES Learn to navigate Tyler’s trail system. Walk along easy trails on this leisurely hike that’s perfect for the whole family, giving you plenty of time to pause, observe, and ask questions. The woods are full of surprises, with plenty to see, hear, and talk about as you explore. What to expect: Check in at the Visitor Center, and then meet your guide. Leisurely-paced 1-2 mile trail hike Learn how to navigate Tyler’s trail system Seasonal observations and nature discovery Changes in grade and walking surfaces, including pavement, grass, gravel, and rocky trails, and possible stream crossings Group departs

For Adults (18+) and Teens ages 12-17  Explore the Arboretum with wildflower expert Dick Cloud. Slow down and look closely at what’s growing along meadows, wooded paths, and occasional streamside spots. Enjoy the simple pleasure of seeing the landscape in detail and notice the Arboretum with fresh eyes. In July and August, discover the Arboretum’s vibrant summer wildflowers. All levels of experience are welcome. Check in at the Visitor Center and then meet your guide. Group departs from the Visitor Center at 1 pm, please be on time All youth must be accompanied by an adult. What to expect: Moderate, 2–3

FOR ALL AGES Some of Tyler’s most iconic trees date back to the 1850s, towering over the landscape and providing vital habitat. Learn about their ecological importance, hear their fascinating stories, and experience their majesty up close. What to expect: Canceled 48 hours in advance if inclement weather, all registrants will be contacted Max one-mile hike on mostly even surfaces Check in at the Visitor Center, where you’ll meet your guide What to bring: Dress for the weather Shoes suitable for walking Carriers are recommended, as strollers may not be suitable for this tour PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED  Pricing: Free for Members, Free

FOR ALL AGES Discover the hidden world of Tyler’s bluebird families. Tag along with our knowledgeable guides as they check the bluebird boxes in Tyler’s succession field for signs of activity. Peek into active nesting boxes to observe nature in action—from carefully tended eggs to fuzzy nestlings waiting for their next meal. Along the way, learn about cavity-nesting birds, the important role volunteers play in their protection, and simple ways you can help these feathered friends thrive at home. This family-friendly outing invites curious kids and nature-loving adults alike. Arrive curious, leave inspired. What to expect: Family-friendly tour for curious kids

FOR ADULTS 18+ Listen, watch, and discover the birds of Tyler Arboretum. Explore Tyler’s forests and meadows with birders Sara Boucas Neto, Chuck Root, and Dave Eberly. Hear the calls, spot the birds, and experience this Audubon-recognized Important Bird Area firsthand. Gates open at 7:45 am. The group leaves promptly from the parking lot at 8:10 am. Please arrive on time. Check in with your guide in the parking lot. Restrooms will be open. What to expect: All levels of birding experience welcome. We will be walking at a slow, birders’ pace. Walking surfaces that include pavement, grass, gravel, and uneven trails. Changes in grade,

FOR ADULTS 18+ Lace up your boots and hit the trail with the Chester County Trail Club for a morning of exploration and challenge. Hike 5- to 7 miles through open meadows, quiet forests, and along rocky streams. Climb and descend the varied terrain, and gain a sense of the Arboretum’s natural beauty and the lay of the land, one step at a time. Please be on time, as the group will start promptly at 9:30 am. What to expect: Rain or shine Check in at the Visitor Center, then meet your guide in front of  the Barn Experienced guide 5-7 mile, moderately-paced hike

FOR ADULTS 18+ Start your Friday on the right foot with an invigorating one-hour hike through Tyler’s gardens and into the wilder natural areas beyond the deer exclusion fence. Designed as a moderate cardio workout, we’ll cover about 2½ to 3 miles at a fast pace—but don’t worry, we’ll also take time to pause for those unexpected moments nature has in store. Gates open at 7:45 am The group leaves promptly from the parking lot at 8:10 am. Please arrive on time. Check in with your experienced guide in the parking lot. Restrooms will be open. What to expect on

For Adults (18+) and Teens ages 12-17  Explore the Arboretum with wildflower expert Dick Cloud. Slow down and look closely at what’s growing along meadows, wooded paths, and occasional streamside spots. Enjoy the simple pleasure of seeing the landscape in detail and notice the Arboretum with fresh eyes. In July and August, discover the Arboretum’s vibrant summer wildflowers. All levels of experience are welcome. Check in at the Visitor Center and then meet your guide. Group departs from the Visitor Center at 11 am, please be on time All youth must be accompanied by an adult. What to expect: Moderate, 2–3

FOR ADULTS AND TEENS AGES 12-17 Discover the hidden world of fungi on Tyler’s trails. Spot mushrooms, bracket fungi, and other fascinating species as they emerge from leaf litter, logs, and soil. Your guides are enthusiastic amateurs, eager to share observations and learn alongside you, focusing on curiosity and exploration rather than expert identification. Check in with your guides on the Visitor Center patio by 9:30 am. What to expect: Guided exploration of fungi in their natural habitats Use of field guides and iNaturalist for fungi identification Moderate, 2–3 mile walk on uneven trails through woods and meadows Close-up observation

For Adults (18+) and Teens ages 12-17  Explore the Arboretum with wildflower expert Dick Cloud. Slow down and look closely at what’s growing along meadows, wooded paths, and occasional streamside spots. Enjoy the simple pleasure of seeing the landscape in detail and notice the Arboretum with fresh eyes. In July and August, discover the Arboretum’s vibrant summer wildflowers. All levels of experience are welcome. Check in at the Visitor Center and then meet your guide. Group departs from the Visitor Center at 11 am, please be on time All youth must be accompanied by an adult. What to expect: Moderate, 2–3

FOR ALL AGES Discover something new while exploring Tyler’s major collections, walking through history, and seeing Tyler through the eyes of one of our experienced guides. What to expect: Canceled 48 hours in advance if inclement weather, all registrants will be contacted Max 1 mile hike on mostly even ground, some uphill Check in at the Visitor Center, where you’ll meet your guide. What to bring: Dress for the weather Shoes suitable for walking Pricing: PRE-REGISTRATION RECOMMENDED   MEMBERS (don’t forget to sign in for your discount!): FREE NON-MEMBERS:  $18 per adult; $10 per child ages 3-17; children ages two and under are

FOR ADULTS 18+ Listen, watch, and discover the birds of Tyler Arboretum. Explore Tyler’s forests and meadows with birders Sara Boucas Neto, Chuck Root, and Dave Eberly. Hear the calls, spot the birds, and experience this Audubon-recognized Important Bird Area firsthand. Gates open at 7:45 am. The group leaves promptly from the parking lot at 8:10 am. Please arrive on time. Check in with your guide in the parking lot. Restrooms will be open. What to expect: All levels of birding experience welcome. We will be walking at a slow, birders’ pace. Walking surfaces that include pavement, grass, gravel, and uneven trails. Changes in grade,

FOR ADULTS 18+ Start your Friday on the right foot with an invigorating one-hour hike through Tyler’s gardens and into the wilder natural areas beyond the deer exclusion fence. Designed as a moderate cardio workout, we’ll cover about 2½ to 3 miles at a fast pace—but don’t worry, we’ll also take time to pause for those unexpected moments nature has in store. Gates open at 7:45 am The group leaves promptly from the parking lot at 8:10 am. Please arrive on time. Check in with your experienced guide in the parking lot. Restrooms will be open. What to expect on

FOR ALL AGES Life at the pond is always changing. From the deck of Tyler’s pond, spot frogs, turtles, and tadpoles drifting among the vegetation. Watch water striders skate across the surface and dragonflies zoom through the air. Use a magnifying glass to explore water samples and discover tiny creatures hiding in the pond. If conditions are favorable, observe some water samples under a microscope for an even closer look! About your guide: Sue Fredrick is a long-time Tyler volunteer and naturalist. She is an experienced Tyler docent and a certified PA Master Naturalist. PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED  What to expect: This program is

For Adults (18+) and Teens ages 12-17  Explore the Arboretum with wildflower expert Dick Cloud. Slow down and look closely at what’s growing along meadows, wooded paths, and occasional streamside spots. Enjoy the simple pleasure of seeing the landscape in detail and notice the Arboretum with fresh eyes. In July and August, discover the Arboretum’s vibrant summer wildflowers. All levels of experience are welcome. Check in at the Visitor Center and then meet your guide. Group departs from the Visitor Center at 11 am, please be on time All youth must be accompanied by an adult. What to expect: Moderate, 2–3

FOR ADULTS AND TEENS AGES 12-17 As you walk through Tyler’s diverse habitats, you’ll uncover how nature and history intersect in an era of climate change. Gain insight into the past, present, and future of our local ecosystems, and deepen your understanding of the forces shaping the environment around us. About your guide: Since retiring from Penn Dental Medicine, Dr. Woody Kotch has reignited his passion for the natural world. Through training at Tyler, the PA Master Naturalist program, the Xerces Society Ambassador Training, and his own research, he developed new tours for Tyler, blending environmental science and history. Woody is dedicated to

FOR ADULTS 18+ Listen, watch, and discover the birds of Tyler Arboretum. Explore Tyler’s forests and meadows with birders Sara Boucas Neto, Chuck Root, and Dave Eberly. Hear the calls, spot the birds, and experience this Audubon-recognized Important Bird Area firsthand. Gates open at 7:45 am. The group leaves promptly from the parking lot at 8:10 am. Please arrive on time. Check in with your guide in the parking lot. Restrooms will be open. What to expect: All levels of birding experience welcome. We will be walking at a slow, birders’ pace. Walking surfaces that include pavement, grass, gravel, and uneven trails. Changes in grade,

FOR ADULTS 18+ Start your Friday on the right foot with an invigorating one-hour hike through Tyler’s gardens and into the wilder natural areas beyond the deer exclusion fence. Designed as a moderate cardio workout, we’ll cover about 2½ to 3 miles at a fast pace—but don’t worry, we’ll also take time to pause for those unexpected moments nature has in store. Gates open at 7:45 am The group leaves promptly from the parking lot at 8:10 am. Please arrive on time. Check in with your experienced guide in the parking lot. Restrooms will be open. What to expect on

FOR ADULTS 18+ AND TEENS AGES 13-17 Step into the nighttime world and discover what’s flying after dark! Explore moths and other nocturnal insects during an evening of mothing. Gather around light stations that attract these often-overlooked pollinators, and observe their surprising colors, patterns, and behaviors up close. A local mothing expert will be on-site to help identify species and share tips you can use at home. Learn a few common species, discover why moths matter, and pick up simple ways to support them in your own backyard. This relaxed, eye-opening program is perfect for curious adults, teens, and anyone