Wellness Walks in Wildlife - MOT

Michelle Obama Trail (MOT)
Wednesday, April 15, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

April moves differently along the Michelle Obama Trail.

Here, migration is not just something to observe—it is something you walk alongside. The South River corridor becomes a living pathway, guiding birds as they travel, pause, and press forward through the Piedmont landscape.

As spring migration unfolds, this paved greenway reveals itself as more than a trail—it is a connector. Water, woodland edges, and open sky come together to create a corridor that birds use for navigation, rest, and renewal.

During this experience, we will take time to acknowledge this migration window and what it reveals about movement through space—how birds follow waterways, how habitat edges shape their journey, and how even urban-aligned trails like this one serve as critical lifelines.

Together, we will explore how the Michelle Obama Trail functions as a riparian corridor—where the presence of the South River influences everything. From the birds that travel above it to those that settle briefly within its edges, this space holds a quiet but constant flow of life.

This walk is an invitation to notice and wonder in motion.

Participants will be guided to slow down—not by stopping completely, but by becoming more aware while moving. We will tune into the sounds that travel along the corridor, observe how birds use linear landscapes differently than enclosed forests, and begin to recognize patterns in flight, behavior, and habitat use.

Rather than focusing solely on identification, we will explore how to observe within a moving system—what to look for along edges, what to listen for near water, and how to interpret the subtle cues that reveal presence.

Whether you are new to birding or have years of experience, this walk meets you where you are. We will share approachable entry points for beginners while offering deeper layers of awareness for those ready to expand their understanding of migration and habitat.

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

3rd Wednesdays at Michelle Obama Trail
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. (times adjusted seasonally)
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.

• Supportive walking shoes with good tread
• Refillable water bottle
• Binoculars (optional but encouraged)
• Curiosity and a willingness to slow down

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)

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher South DeKalb Parks Naturalist