Viles Arboretum — Attraction in Augusta

Unfortunately, I would not recommend Viles Arboretum for a wedding. The deposit was $3,000. We signed a contract stating that we would lose the $3,000 if we had to cancel within 6 months of the date. I understand contracts and how they work but was still hopeful we could make something work to get all or even half of the deposit back. However, of our 50 guests, 10 were only able to make it because of the distance. Most of our guests are elderly. We tried to cancel and get all or at least half of the money back. Bethany took an exceptionally long time to get back to us (her email says she will get back to you at a time that works for her. Warning number one, there). She gave us a no, so I asked for the directo's information. David was quite rude and laughed at me. He informed me that we should have communicated with our guests better. David, I don't think I can tell my elderly guests to age in reverse and feel comfortable driving 4+ hours one way. Long end short of it, we got $500 back. I asked if someone else books it if we will get the $2500 back and he said maybe but that it's unlikely. I asked why, and he said that they have to pay for the services used there that weekend. That would make sense if we were using it that weekend, but we had to cancel, so that makes zero sense. That is a double profit for them. Oh but don't worry, I was told it's a nonprofit. So excuse me, it's double dipping. I know I won't see that $2500 again. I was shocked at David's unwillingness to understand, and that he laughed at the situation. It was completely unbecoming and unprofessional. I am sure the property is nice to visit, but I absolutely would not recommend it for a wedding venue. Take the time to look elsewhere, as you may find something priced similarly and with better offerings. I'm...

It was my first visit at Viles Alboretum. I visited on Saturday, December 16 2023. I arrived at about 12:30, it was about 38 to 40 degrees f The trails were a bit slippery and muddy along the way. We just had 8" of snow fall on us a week before, and then the outside temperature would rise during the daytime and freeze during the evenings. It was 40*f on Satuday, and the sun was shining as you will witness in the photos that I have provided of the property.

There are 3 trails that you can hike at Viles Alboretum, The longest being 1.25 miles and 2 others that are approximately .5 miles in length. They are all relatively easy to stroll along and are pet friendly as long as you keep your pet on a leash and dispose your dogs waste products in the proper dispensaries. There are also some common sense rules in place not to disturb the wildlife or forage on the many acres of property. Please don't litter.

The staff that I met along one of the trails was very friendly as well as informative. The scenery and wildlife at this Sanctuary are beautiful!

The conversations that I had with others on he Crossroads and trails at Viles Alboretum were priceless! I will be sure to visit again! Donation boxes are present for those who would like to donate to the...

Scenic and vast trail system, surprisingly right in the heart of Augusta. There's a parking lot with ample spots to which in Summer, during vacation season, it was nice to be able to drive straight into the Arboretum and not have to search for parking. Leading up to the forested trails were interesting stone sculptures, which is a nice touch, and there was even a cute little bee farm! The only major criticism I would have is that the trails aren't as well managed, not completely neglected, but there were points along the paths where me and my husband had to trudge through fallen tree needles and small twigs which made it a chore to walk. All in all, it's a good way to get out and explore nature without having to drive out of the way and with a walk which isn't rigorous. We will be going again sometime in the fall as I expect the trees and crops...