TennGreen Land Conservancy acquired this unique property in 2015 and has since established it as a certified arboretum.
Across two forested ridges from the West Meade Waterfall, the four-acre Belle Forest Cave & Arboretum is located behind the Belle Forest Condominiums in Bellevue. This property was purchased by TennGreen Land Conservancy in 2015, and it features an old springhouse leading to a small cave where bats have been sighted. The varied topography, soil types, and three small streams support a broad diversity of tree and shrub species, ranging from lowland hardwoods to dry ridge and acidic soil species.
In Fall 2018, the property was established as a certified arboretum through the collaborative efforts of a dedicated TennGreen Land Conservancy volunteer, TennGreen Land Conservancy staff, and the Tennessee Urban Forestry Council (TUFC). Trails throughout the property guide visitors along a tour of 38 labeled trees, ranging from farkleberry to the 2016 Davidson County Big Old Beech Tree winner. Visitors can also note the extensive invasive species removal that is ongoing.
Since 2016, TennGreen and students from Belmont University have partnered to conduct scientific research at the property. This research includes studying the impacts of invasive species on the creation of leaf litter and soil production.
The Belle Forest Cave & Arboretum is only open by appointment through TennGreen Land Conservancy. If you are interested in visiting the Arboretum, please contact our conservancy staff at (615) 329-4441.