Lester Rowntree Native Plant Garden

Hidden in a residential neighborhood up the hill from the Carmel Mission are 35 acres of unspoiled native vegetation called Mission Trail Park, and part of that park is the Rowntree Garden. This is a peaceful native plant garden with a commanding view of the Pacific Ocean and Point Lobos to the south. The arboretum has a self-guided tour, supplemented by knowledgeable volunteer staff.

The entire project is dedicated to a remarkable woman who devoted much of her life to plants and the environment. She was also known as one of the early Women's Liberationists who shocked society by choosing to be called by her middle name, Lester, rather than Gertrude. Lester Rowntree's daughter-in-law, Connie Stroud, still gives spry walking tours of the garden at age 88. The main trail out of the Arboretum takes you on a beautiful, tree-lined walk down to the Carmel Mission.

The free Arboretum and park are located at 25800 Hatton Road in Carmel, and is open daily during daylight hours. Call (408) 624-5458 for more information.