WWiW-MOT: Forest Blooms

Wellness Walks in Wildlife invites participants to move in rhythm with the group—adjusting our pace as needed—pausing with intention to savor what the landscape reveals. These weekly notice-and-wonder sessions unfold across South DeKalb’s interconnected green spaces, where movement and observation meet. Whether the walk leans gentle or more invigorating, each experience is layered with guided stops that deepen awareness of the forests, waterways, and landscapes that shape our community.

In June, our focus turns to Forest Blooms. The season has shifted from spring's first awakenings into a landscape rich with lush greenery and plant growth. Along the trail, participants will notice full tree canopies, layered vegetation, flowering plants, wetland growth, creekside greenery, and the many textures and shades of green that define early summer. This is a time to slow down and appreciate the fullness of the growing season through the plants and landscapes surrounding us.

This week's location—the Michelle Obama Trail—offers a unique opportunity to experience this seasonal abundance from a fully accessible paved pathway that moves through a diverse South DeKalb landscape. As we travel the cemented path and cross boardwalk bridges, we will pass near Georgia State University, Gourmet Foods International, wetlands, creeks, views of the South River, and woodland edges. Together, we will observe how lush plant growth softens, connects, and brings life to the spaces woven throughout this trail corridor.

Walks rotate weekly among Constitution Lakes Park, Glen Emerald Park, and the Michelle Obama—South River Trails, highlighting the ecological diversity of this interconnected stewardship cluster.

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

3rd Wednesdays at Michelle Obama Trail
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.
Ongoing through December

Michelle Obama Trail (MOT)

After parking in the GSU Panthersville Rd. parking lot, walk to the trailhead marked by the bronze Michelle Obama Trail “Let’s Move” sign. The group will gather at the metal bench in front of the sign.

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.

There are no public restrooms available at this site. Participants are encouraged to plan ahead before arriving.

• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
• 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, reflection, and nature observation. Terrain includes a paved trail, boardwalk bridges, and mostly firm surfaces.

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

At the Michelle Obama Trail, the walk follows a paved pathway with boardwalk bridge sections that move through wetland, creek, river, and woodland-adjacent areas. The route is generally accessible and supportive for participants using mobility aids or strollers. Surfaces may become wet or slick after rain, and some areas may include slight grade changes, leaf litter, puddling, or seasonal debris.

Participants are encouraged to move at a comfortable pace and communicate any access needs before or during the walk. 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.

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)