Welcome to the Trailhead Store, a cozy coffee shop nestled amidst the beauty of nature just around the corner from the Visitor Pavilion at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. While the store is owned and operated by DSBG, you do not need to pay admission to the Garden to access it.

Providing convenient access to all of the picturesque, free access trails on DSBG property, The Trailhead Store offers a delightful array of refreshments, snacks, and provisions on top of coffee to fuel your outdoor escapades. Grab a quick bite or pick-me-up with our assortment of fresh to-go snacks (including vegan and meat options), ensuring you stay energized throughout your outdoor activities. Quench your thirst with our selection of coffee drinks, beer, and wine, perfect for both on-site enjoyment and to-go adventures.

Whether you’re embarking on a hike along our scenic trails or seeking a serene spot to unwind, the Trailhead Store has everything you need for a memorable experience in the great outdoors.

We’re proud to brew NightSwim Coffee. 

Back for 2025: Pickin’ on the Porch!

We’re excited to announce the return of our Pickin’ on the Porch music series at The Trailhead Store. With the theme “Beat the Winter Blues”, this series offers a chance to get out and enjoy a free afternoon of music and fun to liven up your January afternoons. All performances run from 2-4 p.m. on The Trailhead Store porch. Bundle up and join us for a talented rotation of musical artists, s’mores, warm beverages, bonfires, winter crafts for kids, and cozy vibes through the coldest season!

Winter Line Up: 

Trailhead Store and Trail Hours

The Trailhead Store is open from 7 a.m.-Noon on Friday, January 10 and will be closed the rest of the day through Saturday due to inclement weather. The Trailhead Store will re-open as usual on Sunday, January 12. 

Daily: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m.

No entry fee is required to access the Store.

Trailhead Store Features

Kick back and relax on our rustic wood chairs and benches on the lawn or screened-in patio, taking in the gorgeous view of our Pond Loop Trails.

Our delightfully kitschy, cozy upstairs “Sasquatch Attic” provides a tranquil environment for studying, reading, writing, working remotely, or hosting book clubs.

DSBG’s fenced-in dog park is located directly behind The Trailhead Store, its forest setting providing a whimsical, peaceful place for dogs to play off-leash.

On-leash, dogs are allowed in all outdoor seating areas outside The Trailhead Store, on all areas of the patio, and on all trails.

The inside of The Trailhead Store and Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden implement the following Pet Policy:

“Dogs are not allowed in the Garden areas where the only access point is through the Visitor Pavilion, with exception of trained service animals that perform life functions for individuals with disabilities.

Leashed dogs are permitted within our grounds, trails, and the Trailhead Store patio and outdoor seating areas. Unleashed dogs are only permitted within our dog park.”

Embark on a journey through nature right from the Trailhead Store! Our 6+ miles of trails begin just outside the Trailhead Store and wind through woodlands, meadows, and peaceful water features, offering a variety of walking and hiking experiences for all levels.

Easily navigate the picturesque landscapes via AllTrails and enjoy views of the botanical gardens and native wildlife along the way.

Weather permitting, we host a weekly free music series called “Pickin’ on the Porch” from 2-4 p.m. on Saturday afternoons! It’s a great time to relax outdoors, bring your lawn chair, let the kids run, and listen to some great regional musicians! Winter 2025 lineup coming soon! 

FAQ

Yes! We are owned by and located on the grounds of the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. Proceeds from The Trailhead Store support the mission of the Garden.

No; The Trailhead Store is open to the public with no admission required.

Yes – our hours are expanded and we are open seven days a week. Please see here for current Garden hours.

Tickets are available at the Visitor Pavilion, located approximately 0.25 miles down the road.

Absolutely! Members enjoy a 15% discount on all purchases, excluding alcohol.

You’re welcome to use either our main entrance gate or the historical Garden entrance closest to the Trailhead Store! Both entrances are open for your convenience.

We recommend using the main gates or the original Garden gate for entry.

Our trails are accessible and free to explore just outside our door! Start by exploring the Pond Loop trails, which lead to the Persimmon Trail, Seven Oaks Preserve Trail, and Carolina Thread Trail. Browse DSBG trails here. 

Beer and wine may be purchased from The Trailhead Store. Plastic cups are provided for trail adventures, while glass is permitted on the porch. Open containers must stay on DSBG property. Please be sure to throw away your trash in the provided receptacles and help us keep our land clean for all to enjoy! Carry-in alcohol is prohibited. 

Weather permitting, we host a weekly free music series called “Pickin’ on the Porch” from 2-4 p.m. on Saturday afternoons! It’s a great time to relax outdoors, bring your lawn chair, let the kids run, and listen to some great regional musicians! We are currently on a winter break from Pickin’ on the Porch, but stay tuned for upcoming lineup announcements! 

DSBG’s fenced-in dog park is located directly behind The Trailhead Store, its forest setting providing a whimsical, peaceful place for dogs to play off-leash. Please note that the dog park is currently closed for repairs. 

On-leash, dogs are allowed in all outdoor seating areas outside The Trailhead Store, on all areas of the patio, and on all trails.

The inside of The Trailhead Store and Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden implement the following Pet Policy:

“Leashed dogs are welcome on the property in areas outside of the Garden and the Trailhead Store. Only trained service animals that perform life functions for individuals with disabilities are permitted in the Trailhead Store or inside the Garden. Dogs are only admitted in the Garden for specially posted days on our Events Calendar.”

Yes, we have restroom facilities on-site for your convenience.