Red Butte Garden and Arboretum

Red Butte Garden and Arboretum is a premier botanical institution and public garden located in the foothills of the Wasatch Range near the campus of the University of Utah in Salt Lake City. As the state's official botanical garden, it encompasses over 100 acres of developed gardens and natural area, serving as a living museum for plant collections, a center for horticultural research, and a major cultural destination for the Intermountain West region. The garden is renowned for its thematic display gardens, extensive conservation efforts, and a robust schedule of educational programs and outdoor concerts.

History

The origins of the institution trace back to 1961 when the University of Utah designated a tract of land for an arboretum to support academic study. Initial development was guided by university faculty, including prominent botanists from the Department of Biology. In 1983, a significant gift from the George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Foundation provided the catalyst for transforming the site into a public garden, which officially opened in 1985. Subsequent expansions have been supported by partnerships with entities like the U.S. Forest Service and donations from local philanthropists such as the R. Harold Burton family. Major milestones include the opening of the Visitor Center in 2002 and the Richard K. Hemingway Orangerie, which solidified its status as a year-round destination.

Collections and Gardens

The garden's living collections include over 21,000 plants in cultivated displays and natural landscapes. Thematic areas include the Water Conservation Garden, showcasing drought-tolerant species from global arid regions, and the Four Seasons Garden, designed for year-round interest. The Children's Garden features interactive elements, while the Fragrance Garden is designed for sensory engagement. The arboretum component features a documented collection of mature trees adapted to the Rocky Mountains climate, including significant specimens of Gambel oak and ponderosa pine. Seasonal highlights include a renowned display of over 500,000 naturalized tulip bulbs in spring and the vibrant colors of the McCarty Family Rose Garden in summer.

Research and Conservation

As part of the University of Utah, the garden maintains an active research program focused on plant conservation, ecology, and sustainable horticulture. Staff collaborate with organizations like the Center for Plant Conservation and participate in national seed banking initiatives. A key conservation effort is the propagation and reintroduction of rare native Utah species, such as those from the threatened Colorado Plateau flora. Research extends to pollinator studies, xeriscape plant trials, and documenting the phenology of plants in the Great Basin to monitor climate change impacts. These scientific activities inform both collection management and public education on biodiversity.

Education and Public Programs

The institution offers a wide array of educational programs for all ages, aligning with the outreach mission of the University of Utah. The School Field Trip program serves thousands of students annually from districts like the Salt Lake City School District. Adult education includes workshops on topics like botanical illustration, native plant gardening, and landscape design. A signature public program is the popular Outdoor Concert Series, which has featured performances by artists such as Brandi Carlile, The Avett Brothers, and John Prine. Additional community events include seasonal festivals, guided nature walks, and horticultural therapy sessions in partnership with local health organizations.

Visitor Information

The garden is located at the eastern edge of the University of Utah campus, with access from Wakara Way. It is open year-round, though hours vary seasonally. Admission fees support the garden's operations, with discounts offered to members, students, and seniors. Amenities include the aforementioned Visitor Center, which houses a gift shop and classroom space, and the Garden Cafe. The site is accessible via the Utah Transit Authority bus system and offers ample parking. Notable nearby attractions include the Natural History Museum of Utah, Fort Douglas military museum, and the hiking trails of Red Butte Canyon Research Natural Area.

Category:University of Utah Category:Arboreta in Utah Category:Botanical gardens in Utah Category:Salt Lake City Category:Tourist attractions in Salt Lake City