FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 30, 2025
Upcoming Tree Walks and Guided Hikes
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA – The Charlottesville Department of Parks and Recreation invites the public to an educational walk focusing on upcoming tree maintenance on the Downtown Mall trees. Discussion will focus on the overall health of the Downtown Mall trees as well as management phases for future tree work on the Mall.
Educational Walk/Discussion Meeting Details:
- Thursday, October 16 from 5:30 - 7:00 PM
- Wednesday, October 22 from 5:30 – 7:00 PM
- Location: Parks and Recreation Administration Building (on the Downtown Mall, next to the Parking Garage) at 501 East Main Street
Likewise, Parks & Recreation will also be hosting guided hikes through the Heyward Community Forest to provide the community with an introduction to new trails on the Heyward Forest property adjacent to Ragged Mountain Natural Area. Learn about the natural history of this relatively new addition to the park system while learning to identify vegetation and wildlife habitat. The hike takes place on natural surface trails and will cover about two miles with some hills.
Guided Hike Details:
- Wednesday, October 1 at 5:00 PM
- Wednesday, November 5 at 5:00 PM
- Location: 1730 Reservoir Road – the parking area has red city sign reading “Heyward Community Forest” in a gravel parking lot on the right-hand side of the road. If you find yourself on top of a big gravel Hill overlooking the reservoir, you missed the turn to the parking lot.
Questions can be directed to Steve Gaines, Urban Forester, at 434-970-3587 or gainess@charlottesville.gov.
Media Contact:
Steve Gaines
Urban Forester
Charlottesville Parks & Recreation
434-989-9110
gainess@charlottesville.gov