Originally published on SaportaReport.
Atlantans know that we’ve had a tough few weeks – with the impact of Hurricane Helene and, right on its heels, a BioLab chemical fire in Conyers – and going outside hasn’t been exactly ideal. But with that fading in the rearview mirror, let’s all take a moment to re-establish our connection to the outdoors by welcoming the highly anticipated fall season!
Between the cooler temperatures and the leaves beginning to change color, this is a time when our city’s parks and greenspaces really shine in a kaleidoscope of rich reds, deep oranges and brilliant yellows!
With over 500,000 residents living within city limits and more than five million in the 11-county Atlanta region overall, it’s hard to believe that this area is also home to wooded trails, giant trees, grassy coves and babbling brooks. We’re not called the City in the Forest for nothing.
These natural spaces give us a chance to relax, connect with each other and enjoy the outdoors while also offering a much-needed respite from the city’s bustle. We’re lucky to live in a city where nature and urban life are so closely tied, and, without this union, Atlanta wouldn’t be Atlanta.
“Atlanta is a tree lover’s paradise, and Atlanta’s parks are a great place to see the changing of the seasons in full display,” said Michael Halicki, President & CEO of Park Pride.
If you want to further explore the city’s greenspaces but don’t know where to start, we recommend checking out Hiking Intown Atlanta’s Hidden Forests by Jonah McDonald and Zana Pouncey. In this guidebook, the two outdoor leaders highlight 61 hikes within the I-285 perimeter. The hikes range from one to six miles, and feature historical ruins, urban art, old-growth forests, champion trees and more. Each includes a map, the trailhead location, complete hiking directions, a list of amenities (including bathrooms!) and public transit access information.
Park Pride also hosts a monthly event to help folks discover Atlanta’s hidden gems – our Second Friday Walk in the Park! Each second Friday, joined by the Friends of the Park group, we take a one-hour walk around a different park in the City of Atlanta and DeKalb County. On Friday, November 8 at 9 a.m., we’ll visit Chastain Park to explore the new Northwood Trails. No registration, no fee – just show up. You’ll be glad you did!
Fall is also a season of service, and on Saturday, October 19, Park Pride is leading a Greener Good Volunteer Day at Empire Park, a nearly 12-acre park in South Atlanta. Hosted by Delta Air Lines, volunteers will join Park Pride and the Friends group to clear underbrush, paint benches and pick up litter. If you’re interested in putting in a little elbow grease for a good cause, click here to sign up to volunteer.
We hope to see you around – on a hike, at a park or (if you’re brave) at Doll’s Head Trail in Constitution Lakes, Atlanta’s spookiest walking path. Happy fall, y’all!
P.S. Not to get ahead of myself but fall transitions to winter and before you know it, we will be welcoming spring. Spring is the brilliant backdrop of the Parks & Greenspace Conference at the Atlanta Botanical Garden. Be sure to mark your calendar for Monday, March 24, 2025.