Explore the World’s Longest Linear Arboretum

If you want to visit the world’s longest linear arboretum, you may be surprised to find it’s as close as Atlanta.  Atlanta Beltline Arboretum recently claimed the distinction, at 12.44 miles long. It’s not stopping there, either. As of this summer, the beltline will expand to 16.7 miles, and to 22 miles by 2030. All the while, the beltline repurposes freight rail corridors, creating green space for the public, while connecting to an expansive network of other parks and greenways in the process.

© Atlanta Beltline

“This designation affirms that the Beltline is more than a trail; it’s an ecological system,” said Clyde Higgs, president and CEO, Atlanta Beltline, Inc. “As Atlanta prepares to welcome people from around the world for the FIFA World Cup in 2026, the arboretum demonstrates how cities can pair large-scale redevelopment with biodiversity, climate adaptation and meaningful public space. We’re connecting more than 45 neighborhoods not just with infrastructure, but with nature.”

The arboretum features more than 600 tree and shrub species. Trees Atlanta has overseen the arboretum’s progress over two decades, planting more than 700,000 native plants in the process.

© Atlanta Beltline

During your next visit to Atlanta, take a free, guided walking tour of the arboretum, courtesy of Trees Atlanta.