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Discover a hidden gem in one of Atlanta’s oldest neighborhoods. This guided tour takes you through a true urban forest—an old-growth beech woodland nestled in the heart of the Morningside neighborhood.

We’ll explore the rich biodiversity of this unique ecosystem and uncover the history that makes Morningside special, including its role in preserving Atlanta’s green legacy. Along the way, you’ll meet some majestic Champion Trees and learn how these giants sustain a thriving urban canopy. This forest has existed since the Woodland period between 1000 BC to 1000 AD, making it an archaeological site as well.

We’ll also share ways you can help protect, steward, and even expand this living history. Thanks to the efforts of Trees Atlanta, Friends of Herbert Taylor Park, and local communities for making this forest accessible. Come walk through time with us and experience the magic beneath the canopy of this city certified forest!

This park is also a certified member of the national Old Growth Forest Network and Trees Atlanta’s City Forest Certification program.

About the Docent: Priya Sarathy is a Trees Atlanta Docent and loves and appreciates the urban forests and trails. She has been a resident of the neighborhood near Herbert Taylor Park and has seen forests evolve over the years. She sees the need for building awareness and educating Atlantans on the rich oasis of flora that challenges the forces of climate change, and the urban development that led to soil erosion. She volunteers with Trees Atlanta as a docent and tree pruner to help promote a healthy city tree canopy.

Additional Information

• Getting There: We will meet at Herbert Taylor Park (1343 Pasadena Ave. NE) at the kiosk. Street parking is available. A bike rack is at this entrance. Marta Bus #36 has a bus stop at E Rock Springs at Beech Valley Way and Marta Bus #816 has a bus stop at Johnson Road and Pasadena Ave.
• What to Bring and Wear: Reusable water bottle, comfortable shoes (that can get muddy), sunscreen, layers of clothing, hats/sunglasses.
• Terrain, Incline, and Length: We will be walking a 1-2 mile unpaved trail. Trail topography includes level ground to moderate inclines. There is a small stream crossing on rocks.
• Registration required. This is a free tour. Please consider making a donation when registering.
• Safety, Inclement Weather, and Cancellation Policy: Learn more about our safety protocols here.
• Questions: If you have any questions or comments regarding this event, please email education@treesatlanta.org.

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