Field trips to Boyce Thompson Arboretum are unique, fun, hands-on learning experiences that connect students to the natural world.
Arboretum Adventures
Field Trips to Boyce Thompson Arboretum are fun, hands-on, immersive experiences. Learners’ adventures on the trails are full of discovery and connection.
Each field trip helps learners improve their science inquiry skills and is tied to Arizona State Science Standards.
For more information and to request a booking, please see below.
Guided Field Trips
Learners discover the 4 components of habitat: food, water, shelter, and space. By conducting a
field investigation, learners will learn how local plants and wildlife use natural resources to meet
their survival needs.
Arizona Science Standards: 1.L2U2.7, 2.L2U1.9
Learners explore the structural adaptations of desert plants that help them survive. Looking closely, they will compare and contrast plants to determine similarities and differences in adaptations of seeds, stems, and leaf structures.
Arizona Science Standards: 3.L1U1.5, 3.L2U1.6, 4.L4U1.11, 5.L4U3.11
Learners explore the concepts of food webs as they observe and investigate the plants and animals in the Arboretum. Gathering evidence from skulls and owl pellets, they uncover what local wildlife is eating for dinner.
Arizona Science Standards: 3.E1U1.4, 3.L2U1.7, 3.L2U1.8, 6.L2U1.14, 6.L2U1.13
Enjoy a guided walking tour of the Arboretum to learn about our 100-year history and the fascinating plants within it. Not recommended for younger learners.
Self Guided Field Trips
Experience the Arboretum at your own pace. Bring your own materials or take advantage of one of ours! (BTA materials are available upon request).
Use pictures and simple words to look high and low for everything on the list!
Explore the Arboretum through the lens of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math concepts. Each garden has a corresponding booklet activity for learners to engage with.
See more of the Arboretum with the guided hike add-on. Take a deeper look at our expansive plant collection with one of our knowledgeable field trip guides.
Join us for an Arboretum Adventure.
Sponsors
Field Trip Pricing
K-12 School (Public, private, charter, etc.
Guided
Learner: $9
Teachers and school staff: $0
Chaperones 1:5 ratio: $0
Extra chaperones: $10
Self-guided
Learner: $7
Teachers and school staff: $0
Chaperones 1:5 ratio: $0
Extra chaperones: $10
*Title One schools may be eligible to receive a discount.
Homeschool/Youth Organization
Scout Groups
Guided
Learner: $9
Chaperones: $10
Self Guided
Learner: $7
Chaperones: $10
Booking Information
- Field trips are available October-April, Tuesdays through Fridays.
- The minimum group size for all field trips is 15 learners. Guided trips can accommodate up to 80 learners. Self-guided trips have a maximum of 150 learners.
- Field trips must be booked at least three weeks in advance.
- Cancellations, rescheduling, and/or changes to your final headcount can be made up to 14 days before your scheduled field trip date. No refunds or rainchecks will be given after the 14-day window.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What should we bring with us?
Each learner should bring a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, a hat, and closed-toe shoes. Groups may also bring sack lunches to eat in our picnic area.
Where do we park?
Buses park in the bus parking area on the north side of the parking lot near the exit gate. All other vehicles park in the main parking lot.
Who will we meet in the parking lot?
You will be greeted by an education staff member when you arrive.
What if we are running late?
If you are running late, please call (520)689-4700 to notify the staff. We reserve the right to adjust your field trip to best fit the scheduled timeline.
How many students are in a group?
Depending on the number of learners attending, you will be divided into groups of 10-15
learners.
Can we go into the gift shop?
Yes! We ask that you send small groups of 3-6 students at a time.
How do we pay for our field trip?
We accept day-of payment or payment by invoice. For day-of payments, we accept cash and card. For payment by invoice, we accept cash, card, or check. Please inform our education staff of your preferred payment type. Payments must be received all in one transaction.
Can extra chaperones pay on the day of the field trip?
No. All extra chaperones must prepay the school prior to the field trip. Otherwise, they will be charged full admission at the admissions booth.
Is the $25 deposit refundable?
No, the deposit is not refundable regardless of when you cancel the field trip. Schools may send a purchase order in lieu of the $25 deposit.
What if it rains during my field trip?
Boyce Thompson Arboretum field trips are rain or shine, but you can cancel if you feel your learners are unequipped for the rain. While we will try our best to reschedule your trip, we cannot guarantee another date will be available.
I am a Title I school. Do you offer scholarships?
Yes! Title I schools are eligible for reduced admission as well as transportation reimbursement. Please contact education staff for more information.
Can I bring my dog on the field trip?
In order to support a conducive learning environment, please leave pets at home. Service animals are always welcome.
Do you have a space to eat lunch?
Yes. You are welcome to eat sack lunches in our picnic area, which seats a maximum of 120 individuals.
I use a wheelchair. What kind of trail conditions can I expect?
Our trails consist of unpaved and uneven dirt paths. Many of these paths are navigable by most mobility devices, though some trails may be challenging to access. Please contact our education staff at [email protected] when booking your visit so we can provide detailed information about trail accessibility and assist with any necessary accommodations.
What happens if I bring less than 15 learners?
You will be charged the minimum of $107 for self-guided trips and $135 for guided trips.
How soon should I book?
We require a minimum of 3 weeks’ notice to book a field trip
What is your cancellation policy?
You can cancel or reschedule your trip up to 14 days before your field trip
Questions? Send us a message.
#1Arb
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The Eucalyptus caesia is a true showstopper in bloom! Native to Western Australia, this small and graceful tree enchants with its silvery, powdery bark, and cascading pink or red flowers. These blossoms aren’t just a feast for the eyes—they’re also essential to pollinators like bees and birds, playing a vital role in their ecosystem.
#gilbert #mesa #desertbeauty #visitarizona #queencreek #exploreaz #aznature #chandleraz #tempeaz #santanvalley #arizonatrails #visitphoenix #arizonahiking #arizonahikes #explorenature #ExploreAZ #sonorandesert #thingstodoAZ #visitmesa
See What Everyone’s Talking About! The Wallace Desert Garden at Boyce Thompson Arboretum is a 13-acre masterpiece featuring over 5,000 plants from the world’s most arid regions.
Visitors say it’s “breathtaking” and “a must-see for nature lovers.” Walk among towering saguaros, vibrant succulents, and rare, endangered plants carefully curated to showcase the beauty and resilience of desert life.
Did You Know? This garden preserves plants that are vital to global desert ecosystems and offers a glimpse into sustainable landscaping for the future.
Don’t just wonder what it’s like, plan your visit today, and experience why this garden is one of the most talked-about attractions in the region.
Start your journey at btarboretum.org
#desertbeauty #visitarizona #arizona #mesa #queencreek #gilbert
The hedgehog cactus, particularly species like Echinocereus fasciculatus var. boyce-thompsonii, holds a rich legacy deeply intertwined with the history of Boyce Thompson Arboretum. This cactus was among the first planted at the arboretum in the 1920s and remains a symbol of our dedication to the preservation and appreciation of desert plants. Native to arid regions, these cacti are renowned for their stunning blooms and unique adaptations to survive harsh environments.
At the Arboretum, we take pride in conserving these iconic plants. Many species of hedgehog cactus, such as Echinocereus triglochidiatus var. arizonicus, are listed as endangered due to habitat loss and illegal harvesting. Our propagated plant sales program serves as a crucial initiative to combat this issue, providing sustainably grown cacti for the public while protecting wild populations. Additionally, cacti salvaged from construction sites are nurtured and given a new lease on life within our collections.
By supporting ethical propagation, research, and education, we aim to prevent further exploitation of these desert treasures. However, the challenges of conservation require a collective effort.
You can play a vital role in protecting the hedgehog cactus and other desert plants:
1. Avoid purchasing plants taken from the wild. Support organizations like ours that offer sustainably propagated specimens.
2. Contribute your time or resources to help our conservation programs thrive.
3. Educate others about the importance of desert plant conservation and the threats posed by habitat destruction and illegal harvesting.
Let’s ensure the beauty and resilience of the hedgehog cactus continue to inspire generations to come. Visit Boyce Thompson Arboretum to experience these marvels firsthand and join us in safeguarding our desert`s biodiversity!
Explore More & Get Involved Today at btarboretum.org
Boyce Thompson Arboretum is a sanctuary for birds. Recognized as one of Arizona’s top Audubon Important Bird Areas. On #nationalbirdday, celebrate the incredible biodiversity we protect every day.
Together, we’re making a difference.
Photos by Tim Lee
Did you know our resident coatis LOVE the myrtle tunnel in the canyon? These skilled foragers might take over the tunnel for a short feast because, hey, even wildlife deserves a lunch break!
If you see them snacking, please be patient and enjoy the show from a safe distance. The trail under the tunnel may be briefly closed, but the sight of these adorable creatures in action is totally worth it!
🎉 Happy New Year! 🎉
We’re open today, 8 AM–5 PM (last admission 4 PM).
Start 2025 surrounded by nature. Don’t miss out!
#desertbeauty #arizonatrails #exploreaz #aznature #queencreek #santanvalley #gilbert #chandleraz #tempeaz #mesa
A world of hiking and discovery is waiting. Plan your visit at btarboretum.org today!
Photos by Tim Lee
#birdingphotography #azbirding #birdinghotspot #naturelovers #ThingsToDoAZ #hikingarizona
Why do lizards do push-ups?