Ode to Odell and Fredericton’s Botanic Garden
Want to hug a 400-year-old tree (you may need a friend or two to get all the way around!) Did you know that Odell Park is one of Canada’s best old growth forests?; but what does that mean exactly? It’s any forest or parkland that has attained a great age without a lot of disturbance, thereby providing it with some unique ecological features. Frederictonians are fortunate to have this gem smack dab in the city and we’re happy to share it with visitors!
Forest Bathe Among the Hemlocks
Odell features approximately 16 km of trails that meander through a varied forest. One very unique characteristic: some of the park’s hemlocks are more than 400 years old! Odell’s trails meander through a mixed forest, coupled with a shady canopy above truly makes for a sublime experience. The Japanese call this ”shinrin-yoku” or “forest bathing”
So much to do & so much space!
Odell Park is home to many activities. Running, hiking or biking on the well-established paths as well as Disc Golf (similar to traditional golf, except participants throw a frisbee into a basket), photo ops on what is affectionately called the “Monkey Trees”; in winter, visitors can slide down the hills and cross country ski on groomed trails. A perfect place for a picnic, with tables set in various locations and an area with a covered gazebo. Kids will love the duck pond and playground!
Have you ever wondered what edible plants and fungus grow in this space? Wonder no more! Wabanaki Tree Spirit Tours is offered by mother-son duo, Cecilia and Anthony Brooks, who share their vast knowledge of local flora and fauna including traditional indigenous cultural experiences.
Watch an artist at work!
The Artist-in-Residence program, in its third year, provides a unique opportunity to work on the natural surroundings of Odell Park and the Fredericton Botanic Garden. Look for them working on their latest creation in these spaces!
But wait, there’s more! Fredericton Botanic Garden
But why stop at Odell Park? There is so much more to explore, following the paths upwards towards the west end of Odell that will eventually lead you to the Fredericton Botanic Garden. The garden, established in 1990 has evolved into a mixed species garden with features such as a mixed perennial garden, rose garden, rhododendron and azalea garden, (pro tip: check out “Rhodo”; one of the city’s public art pieces, read more here) with plenty of areas to sit, relax and really take in your surroundings. In addition to providing interpretive talks and educational workshops, the Botanic Garden offers garden tours, educational talks with well-known local naturalists, plant sales and theatre! This year’s production of Bard in the Barracks will be held in the garden this year, featuring Shakespeare’s “The Tempest”.
Discover the beauty of nature so close to the city! Grab the fam and embark on your foray into the natural world! If you are looking for more ways to get out and enjoy Fredericton’s outdoor attractions, check out our 120 km of trails here.
