Judith and Maynard H. Murch IV Canopy Walk — Attraction in Kirtland

The Judith and Maynard H. Murch IV Canopy Walk at Holden Arboretum is a stunning example of how architecture can harmonize with nature to create something truly magical. This elevated walkway, suspended among the trees, offers a unique perspective on the forest, bringing visitors closer to the leafy canopy and the wildlife that thrives there.

Spanning 500 feet, the canopy walk is not just a path; it’s an immersive experience. As you stroll along, you’re enveloped by the sounds of rustling leaves and bird calls, with occasional glimpses of squirrels and other forest creatures going about their daily routines. The walkway’s design is careful to blend with the environment, minimizing impact while maximizing the visitor’s experience of unspoiled nature.

Here’s a tip: For the best experience, visit during the early morning or late afternoon when the light filters through the trees in a soft, ethereal glow, and the forest is most active with its animal inhabitants.

So, if you’re a nature enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful escape into the woods, the Judith and Maynard H. Murch IV Canopy Walk is a must-visit. It’s an opportunity to float above the forest floor, see the woods as the birds do, and experience the quieter, slower pace of life among the treetops. Just be ready to leave with a renewed sense of awe for the...

My body said, vertigo activated NOW !!!! The sounds of the wood cracking, moving as we walked made me ask myself, when was the last time this canopy was certified as safe to use? You know how the mind does. I have to admit, the canopy is SAFE !!! It barely moved. Another factor for me to keep walking and even though I was scared was the fact that it was only my husband and me walking, no other visitors. That helped to put my mind at ease. Knowing that no one was going to be bouncing the canopy. It is gorgeous up there. The smell of the trees and flowers is amazing. We did the walk as soon as they opened at 10am during a Saturday. Would I do it again? Maybe not because of my fear of walking on moving surfaces BUT I did it. It is like one of those goals on your bucket list that you don't even know you had to have on your list. Well, it is now crossed out of my list. I will be back just for the beauty of it, to admire it from a distance. Take my family from out of state so they can experience it. After I was on a steady surface, of course I told my husband that I loved it. I'm grateful for all my...

Located inside the arboretum, just a few minutes hike from the parking lot. You're going to enjoy the journey as much as the experience.

Beautiful place, we visited in early spring, May. Flowers were blooming, and grounds were spectacular ✨️ leading to the tree walk.

The walkways are suspended via heavy cables, so expect swinging bridge feel as you cross them. It is a triangle design, 🔺️ with three primary anchor points. The walkways are composite decking, sides are woven wire mesh from top to bottom, making it more kid safe. You can rest at the anchor points, think 10x10 deck high in tree canopy, there are two of these areas.

Note, it can be breezy in mid-air, so dress wisely and ensure secure attachment of hats, and other articles that might get blown in the breeze.

Views are not spectacular, but the experience is worth the opportunity to walk to the area, and it's part of admission which is $20 for each adult visiting the arboretum.

Highly recommended if...