Magic of Maples family trail at Westonbirt Arboretum

Step into a world of fiery reds, glowing oranges and golden yellows on our brand-new family trail through dog friendly Silk Wood. Follow the Magic of Maples trail and uncover the secrets, stories and surprising science behind some of Westonbirt's most spectacular autumn trees. Inspired by the National Collection of Maples, this self-led adventure is packed with hands-on activities, fascinating discoveries and imaginative challenges for curious minds of all ages. 

What will you discover?

As you journey through Silk Wood, you'll meet nine remarkable maple trees from around the world, each with its own story to tell. Along the way you can:

• Search for every shade in autumn's rainbow
• Learn the sweet science behind maple syrup
• Create a magical maple wand
• Discover how trees help tackle climate change

Each stop combines fun family activities with fascinating facts about nature, science and culture.

Collect all nine stamps

Don't forget to pick up your trail leaflet and pencil from the Welcome Building before you set off.

Find the stamp at each trail stop to complete your maple collection and see if you can answer all the trail questions along the way.

Quiz answers

A trail where science meets imagination

Created by science communicator Emma Tapp, the Magic of Maples trail combines outdoor exploration, creative storytelling and real tree science to help families see the natural world in a new way. From the traditions of Japanese maple viewing to stories about maple syrup and the incredible power of trees to store carbon, there's something to inspire every explorer.