Greenheart TreeWalk Virtual Tour
Improved mood, reduced stress, boosted cognitive functioning – these are some of the well-known benefits provided by being out in nature. However, as we practice social distancing and have limited access to the outdoors, many of us might be feeling deprived of these benefits.
There is research that suggests exposure to nature even through technology can be beneficial when the real thing isn’t readily available.
In this spirit, The Sustainable Communities Field School at UBC Botanical Garden presents a 360° Greenheart TreeWalk Rainforest Experience. The Greenheart TreeWalk is a canopy walkway, an aerial trail system that allows people to journey through the upper parts of the rainforest in the David C. Lam Asian Garden at UBC Botanical Garden. Its structure offers an elevated experience to visitors to explore the flora and fauna that thrive in this lofty environment.
This virtual tour is available on YouTube and can be viewed using 3D-compatible devices.
In addition, here are some wonderful virtual tours from around the world where you can explore gardens, parks and forested spaces!
AirPano Tours
View nature from the sky with AirPano, a virtual reality project focused on aerial 360° photographs and 360° video. Enjoy this aerial view of the breathtaking Kronotsky Nature Reserve in Kamchatka, Russia.
Virtual Yosemite
Visiting natural spaces isn’t just about the scenery – it’s about the sounds, too. Enjoy the sweet twittering of birds, the rush of powerful waterfalls, and even the chatter of tourists and visitors in this virtual tour of Yosemite National Park in California, USA.
United States Botanic Garden
Dive back into the botanical world with a virtual tour of United States Botanic Garden.
Google Earth – Great Hikes Around the World
Admire hiking trails from Wales to New Zealand with Google Earth. You can even “hike” some of the trails using the arrow pads!
Virtual Tour Best Practices
How to view 360: Use your mouse to “drag” through the scenery or use the arrow pads if provided.
Use desktop for best immersion or tablet for easy navigation.
Longwood Gardens Open Online Course – Everything About Orchids
If you miss the collaborative and educational aspects of visiting the Garden, consider taking open online courses on plants and gardening. The Longwood Gardens is offering a free online course on orchids featured in their own collection and those you can enjoy at home.
