Arboretum Main-Taunus

Arboretum Main-Taunus covers about 76 hectares and holds more than 600 species of trees and shrubs organized into 38 different forest communities. Wide main pathways run through the site with smaller trails branching off to provide access to the various forest sections.

The site operated as a Luftwaffe airfield from 1937 to 1945 and remained under American control before being transformed into an arboretum in 1981. This conversion of former military land into an educational forest marked a significant shift in how the space would serve the region.

Four forest sections represent different regions of the Northern Hemisphere, each with its own plant communities and tree species. Walking through them shows how forests look and feel different depending on their origin and climate.

The site has wide main paths suitable for comfortable walking and smaller trails for exploring the forest sections more closely. Plenty of time should be allowed for exploration, and comfortable footwear is recommended as visitors can wander freely through the large grounds.

A Chilean pine stands as the only tree from the Southern Hemisphere in the collection, creating a striking contrast with North American redwoods and long-living bristlecone pines. This geographic exception shows how specific trees from distant regions were intentionally brought together here.