Welcome to LSU Hilltop Arboretum! These fourteen extraordinarily beautiful acres in Baton Rouge showcase an extensive collection of Louisiana native trees and shrubs. The property known as Hilltop is located on Highland Road south of LSU.

You are invited to cross the old footbridge overlooking a twenty-foot deep ravine and wander into the tranquil "cathedral," where tree canopies form a green protective room. Discover the bamboo grove where you can sit and listen to the wind in the trees. In the meadow, tall grasses and colorful autumn wildflowers shimmer in the bright Louisiana sunlight. The visitor to LSU Hilltop Arboretum will find not only a place of learning, but a quiet place, far removed from the pressures of life; a place of solace and contemplation.

Hours: The Arboretum is open to the public free of charge during daylight hours seven days a week.
Tours: Self-guided tour maps are located on the grounds of the Arboretum. To schedule Group Tours, contact the Hilltop Office at (225) 767-6916 Tuesday-Friday between the hours of 9 AM - 3 PM.

The Hilltop property was purchased in 1929 by Emory Smith and his wife, Annette, as a country retreat. In 1981, because of his love of the natural world, he chose to preserve Hilltop by donating the property to LSU. His fascination with the native plants of Louisiana is evident as you stroll along winding woodland paths skirting ravines. Many of the species found at the Arboretum were collected and planted by Mr. Smith. Among the most unusual is the "Emory Smith" magnolia, collected by Mr. Smith and cultivated at Hilltop.