Discovery Station: Trees of Mount Vernon

Have You Walked the Forest Trail?

You can walk the forest trail through one of the small woodlands on the estate.

The forest trail begins near the 16-sided treading barn at the Farm. Cross the road, keeping the Slave Cabin on your right, and you’ll see the “Entry to Forest Trail” sign. 

The forest trail includes several steep inclines and is not recommended for all visitors, though it can provide a cool respite on a hot day. It takes about 15 minutes to walk the trail.

How Many Trees Grew Here?

Only about 3,200 acres of the estate were cultivated during Washington's time. He purposely left most of his land wooded because the forest helped sustain the estate, providing wood for fuel and building.