Wellness Walks in Wildlife - SRT

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

In February, our focus is Signs of Wildlife—tuning our awareness to the evidence animals leave behind. From tracks and trails to feeding marks and seasonal habitat shifts, we learn to read the landscape as a living record of who has passed through.

The South River Trail split that turns right from the GSU trailhead offers a distinctive setting. While similar in structure to the Michelle Obama Trail, this corridor runs alongside a middle school and a golf course—placing youth activity, recreation, and river ecology side by side. It is a powerful example of how wildlife adapts within layered human spaces.

As we follow the river in the opposite direction, participants will explore:

• Deer tracks crossing between wooded edges and open greenspace
• Bird activity responding to open fairways and forest canopy transitions
• Signs of small mammals using brush lines and drainage areas
• Reptile and amphibian presence near wetland pockets and riverbanks
• Seasonal browse patterns and habitat shifts along riparian corridors

Here, the river quietly anchors it all. Even with the nearby sounds of school bells or golf carts, wildlife continues its patterns—often unnoticed. This walk invites participants to recognize that nature does not disappear in developed spaces; it recalibrates.

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

Come ready to observe closely. The landscape is always speaking.

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

4th Wednesdays at South River Trail
Time: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Ongoing through December

South River Trail (SRT)
2901 Clifton Springs Rd, Decatur, GA 30034

Same trailhead as the Michelle Obama Trail — participants will take the right fork at the split

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 South River Trail is a paved multi-use path with mostly level terrain, gentle elevation changes, and long linear stretches along the river corridor typical of greenway routes.

DeKalb County Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs is committed to welcoming participants of all abilities. The paved surface of the South River Trail provides a generally accessible route for walkers, wheelchairs, and mobility aids. Trail shoulders, subtle grade changes, and occasional natural debris should be anticipated, particularly 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)

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