Tight Grove

A Green Glimpse into History

Located on the University of New Mexico campus in Albuquerque sits Tight Grove, a small but charming park with roots reaching back to 1905. It was William George Tight, the university president from 1901 to 1909, who first envisioned this green sanctuary.

What started as a student-president planting project has grown into a living museum of sorts. Tight and his students placed both pine and deciduous trees throughout the area, and remarkably, some of these century-old originals still stand tall today, joined by younger trees added through the decades.

Natural Design with Character

Take a moment to appreciate the grove's sloping landscape and clustered trees that create an atmosphere reminiscent of English Romantic design. Whether this style was deliberately planned or simply a happy accident remains a mystery.

You can find the grove conveniently positioned west of Hodgin Hall, one of UNM's most historic buildings. This thoughtful early landscaping effort helped set the tone for the university's ongoing commitment to beautiful campus design.

A Tranquil Campus Retreat

Though modest in size, Tight Grove offers something increasingly precious: a peaceful green escape in the heart of university life. The mature trees cast cool shadows across the grounds, providing a natural haven for students, faculty, and visitors alike.

More than just a pretty spot, this little grove is a living connection to UNM's early days - a leafy time capsule that continues to enhance campus life over a century later.