Did you know that there are over 100 species of trees in the Fairmount Park system? Let’s take a hike and meet a few! Join arborist Robert Heiskell for a tree huggers hike through the Trolley Trail in West Park (7/11) and the natural areas of FDR Park (8/21).

On these hikes, we’ll learn to identify trees usually found in Philly’s urban forest from the leaves, the bark. We’ll take time to observe the body language of trees – why they grow the way they grow, and what we can learn about the life of the forest. And we’ll pepper our conversation with tree trivia related to history, culture, economy and uses. The first step towards stewardship is learning the name of what you care for. You’ll finish the tour a bit more empowered to care about Philly’s trees.

Pay what you can – $15, $20, or $25 

[ Not sure what to pay? Please refer to this Sliding Scale Pricing FAQ for additional info. ]

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:

– Please dress according to weather conditions.
– Please wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking
– Bring water and a snack
– Bring bug spray and sunscreen 
-There are nearby bathrooms (port-a-potties)
-Appropriate for adults & mature adolescents (minors must be ticketed and accompanied by a guardian)

PARKING: there is plenty of free parking in the park. As always, NEVER leave valuables in your car! 

COVID-19 PROTOCOLS: By registering for this event you are agreeing to follow ALL of these protocols:

-This event has limited capacity. Please only register if you fully intend to attend and let us know if you need to cancel ASAP.
-Participants must maintain 6 feet of distance from one another during the event.
-Please bring a mask. We encourage you to wear it if you’re in proximity to others.
-If you or anyone in your household are exhibiting COVID-19 systems, please stay home.

POSTPONEMENT / CANCELLATION POLICY: Light rain or shine. Rescheduled in the case of severe weather

PRESENTER(S) BIO: Rob feels at home among trees. And he’s been lucky enough for trees to be his workplace as well! A certified arborist for the last ten years, Rob’s professional life has taken him to the tip top of an elm outside Independence Hall to the wild Paw Paw groves near Conowingo Dam. Once upon a time, Rob climbed trees everyday. These days, he mostly looks at them and uses his knowledge of tree biology and structure to assess whether or not a tree is hazardous. He finds joy in appreciating trees with other people, sharing his knowledge (a work-in-progress), and uncovering the common patterns and unique diversity in every individual tree.