Choose a tree instead
of a tombstone
Spread ashes around
your own Memorial Tree
in a protected forest.
A natural alternative to cemeteries
Double Your Environmental Impact
This Earth Month we are planting double the number of saplings in your honor when you purchase your Memorial Tree. Saplings are planted by our nonprofit partner the Arbor Day Foundation to reforest areas affected by wildfire and drought. Together we can leave the earth better.
Double Your Environmental Impact
This Earth Month we are planting double the number of saplings in your honor when you purchase your Memorial Tree. Saplings are planted by our nonprofit partner the Arbor Day Foundation to reforest areas affected by wildfire and drought. Together we can leave the earth better.
Why people choose Better Place Forests
Forever a part of the forest
Elements from your ashes become a part of your Memorial Tree and the wider forest ecosystem.
A memorial for nature lovers
By choosing a Memorial Tree, you help protect these forests for future generations to visit and enjoy.
A healing experience
Forest Memorials are intimate gatherings where ashes are mixed with soil and placed at the base of your tree.
Why having a place matters
Google Reviews
Explore our forests from coast to coast
Return to nature with a Forest Memorial
Real stories from our Forests
The process of selecting a tree was deeply spiritual . I am a tree-hugging conservationist and Better Place Forests is exactly what I had in mind for my ashes.
Patricia D. Point Arena Forest, CaliforniaThis is a thoughtful, environmentally smart approach to end-of-life. I appreciate that my children will have a place other than a cemetery to visit.
Francine S. Santa Cruz Forest, CaliforniaBetter Place Forests is the perfect place for us. The idea of being out in nature under our tree gives us such a feeling of peace.
Joy B. Yosemite Gateway Forest, CaliforniaI think having a tree, having a place out in nature is so different. Instead of showing my son a plot in a cemetery I can show him a tree. It’s a chance to teach him about renewal and that life carries on.
Sarah B. Flagstaff Forest, ArizonaMother Teresa said, "Peace begins with a smile." My wild black cherry tree in the Rock River Forest brings a smile and a sense of peace, instead of angst.
Judith L. Rock River Forest, IllinoisPicking out a tree, a symbol of family and strength, felt right. My parent's tree is more than a place to visit, it’s a symbolic reminder of our connection.
Michelle C. St. Croix Valley Forest, MinnesotaI have spent many days walking in the forest. When you listen to the birds, the wind, the rustling of leaves… it’s a monumental, picturesque experience.
Dwight and Renate B. Berkshires Forest, MassachusettsThere’s something very magical about picking out your tree and knowing that you’ll become a part of that ecosystem. In a way, you’ll live on in the future.
Susan K, Litchfield Hills Forest, ConnecticutExplore available
trees with a Guide
Find the tree that speaks to you by exploring trees online or in-forest.
What came as a wonderful surprise is the reverence the staff added to our Forest Memorial. They guided us through returning our loved one to the earth .
Chris B. Lake Arrowhead Forest, California