Viles Arboretum, Augusta, Maine Viles Arboretum is an easy hike that covers 1.1 mi, making it ideal for families and all fitness levels. The arboretum features over six miles of trails that wind through gardens, forests, wetlands, and meadows, offering multiple route options with varying lengths. The trail system includesthe 0.9-mile Inner Trail Loop to admire the hosta gardenandthe 1.6-mile Outer Loop Trail winds through forest and open wetland with boardwalks and showcases an amazing collection of trees. The trails are a mix of forest floor, crushed stone, rock and boardwalks, winding through 150 acres of fields and 74 acres of forest. Historic features include a 19th-century well, the remains of a granite rock quarry and the foundation of an old “piggery”. Visitors can relax on the marble bench at the edge of Viles Pond and reach the rhododendron grove that flowers in May and June. The observatory deck is perfect for bird-watchers, andthe diverse habitats provide excellent wildlife watching opportunities. The arboretum is open every day from sunrise to sunset with free admission, making it accessible year-round for hiking, walking, biking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.