Wellness Walks in Wildlife - MOT

Wellness Walks in Wildlife invites you to slow down and experience the natural rhythms of South DeKalb’s greenway network. These guided walks blend gentle movement with seasonal observation, encouraging fresh perspectives on forests, waterways, wildlife, and trails that connect our communities.

In January, our focus is Winter Tree Identification—learning to recognize trees by bark texture, branching patterns, buds, and overall form when leaves are absent. The Michelle Obama Trail offers a scenic, paved greenway along the South River where participants can explore winter tree characteristics, diverse plant communities, and river-edge habitats while engaging in meaningful movement and community connection.

Walks rotate weekly among Constitution Lakes Park, Glen Emerald Park, the Michelle Obama–South River Trail, and the Gresham Park Recreation Center side, highlighting the ecological diversity of this stewardship cluster.

Tasha L. J. Messer
Park Naturalist, DeKalb County Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs (RPCA)

3rd Wednesdays at Michelle Obama Trail
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Ongoing through December

This program will be held rain, snow, or shine unless conditions are deemed unsafe by DeKalb County Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs (RPCA).

Please note that there are no restrooms available on site. Participants are encouraged to plan accordingly prior to arrival.

• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Supportive walking shoes with good tread
• Refillable water bottle
• Trekking poles or walking sticks (optional; helpful on muddy or root-exposed areas)
• Binoculars (optional; tree and wildlife observation support)

All ages are welcome. Youth under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Approximately 2–2.5 hours at a relaxed, observant pace with frequent stops. The Michelle Obama Trail is a paved multi-use path that runs roughly 3–4 miles alongside the South River, with mostly level terrain and gentle changes in elevation typical of greenway routes.

DeKalb County Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs is committed to welcoming participants of all abilities. The paved surface of the Michelle Obama Trail provides a generally accessible route for walkers, wheelchairs, and mobility aids. Trail shoulders, occasional grade changes, and natural debris should be anticipated in places, and caution is advised after wet weather.

Reasonable accommodations may be available upon request. To discuss access needs or alternate route modifications, please contact the program leader at least 48 hours in advance.

Programs proceed in light weather and are adjusted only when conditions are unsafe. Participants should dress appropriately for the day’s conditions and bring any personal assistive devices or supports needed.

By registering for or attending this program, participants acknowledge that outdoor activities involve inherent risks, including but not limited to uneven terrain, weather conditions, and physical exertion. Participation is voluntary, and attendees assume full responsibility for their own safety and well-being.

Participants agree to release, indemnify, and hold harmless DeKalb County Government, the Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs (RPCA), its officers, employees, agents, volunteers, and affiliated partners from any claims, injuries, losses, or liabilities arising from participation, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct.

By attending, participants grant permission for DeKalb County RPCA and Park Naturalist–led programs to photograph or record them for educational, promotional, reporting, and documentation purposes across print and digital platforms. Individual image requests cannot be accommodated.

Registration and attendance indicate agreement with the Park Naturalist Program Volunteer Waiver, Food & Beverage Disclaimer, and Media Release on file with DeKalb County RPCA.

~ Naturalist Tasha L. J. Messer
Park Naturalist | DeKalb County Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs
[email protected]
404-927-4227 (Work Cell)

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Michelle Obama Trail, 2901 Clifton Springs Road, Decatur, United States

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

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