Wellness Walks in Wildlife - CLP

Wellness Walks in Wildlife invites participants to slow down and experience the seasonal rhythms of South DeKalb’s interconnected green spaces. These guided walks combine gentle movement with mindful observation, offering space to notice how forests, waterways, and wildlife shift throughout the year.

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. Constitution Lakes Park provides an ideal setting to explore wetland-edge hardwoods and evergreen species while supporting physical well-being and environmental awareness.

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)
Talkin’ Birds Ambassador

1st Wednesdays at Constitution Lakes Park
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Ongoing through December

Constitution Lakes Park (CLP)
Meet at the semicircle rock seating wall near the main trailhead
1305 S River Industrial Blvd SE, Atlanta, GA 30315

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

There are no public restrooms within Constitution Lakes Park.

Through a supportive community partnership, Rush Trucking has graciously allowed limited restroom access when programs align with their business hours. This accommodation is available before the walk begins or after it concludes, as the restroom is located inside the building’s rear service-area break room.

We are grateful for Rush Trucking’s generosity in supporting this program. Participants are encouraged to plan accordingly, as access is time-limited and cannot be guaranteed during the walk.

• 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 2.5 hours at a relaxed, observant pace with frequent stops for discussion and seasonal observation. Terrain includes boardwalks and natural trails.

All South DeKalb Parks Naturalist programs are designed to be welcoming and supportive of participants with varying abilities and mobility levels.

At Constitution Lakes Park, the walk begins on compacted gravel and firm soil, transitioning to an elevated boardwalk system over wetland habitat. Boardwalks provide stable footing and railings but may become slick after rain. Beyond the boardwalk, trail sections may include uneven surfaces, exposed roots, soft ground, and seasonal mud.

Participants with mobility concerns may choose to remain on boardwalks and firmer entrance paths. Those using mobility aids or strollers should be aware that off-boardwalk conditions vary, particularly after wet weather.

Reasonable accommodations may be available upon request. To discuss access needs or alternate route options, 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)

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