2026 Guided Hikes: Atkins Acres Community Park
March 23 @ 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
$15
Register now to explore the picturesque property known as Atkins Acres Community Park on Monday, March 23 from 2:00pm – 5:00pm.
This conserved land has been donated to Chesterfield County for use as a future park while CRLC holds the conservation easement and is not available for public access except for this annual opportunity with Capital Region Land Conservancy and Chesterfield County Parks & Recreation.
ABOUT THE HIKE
The Atkins Acres hike is a 2-3 mile easy to moderate level walk through the property. In addition to learning the history of the 100 acres of woodlands, we’ll follow a stream through the property to discover a vernal pool, observe a cut bank that reveals an interesting geologic history, and observe some changes as we head to the uplands. Vernal pools are temporary bodies of water that are vital habitats for plants, wildlife, and amphibians. There are no trails so participants should be comfortable on uneven terrain of varying elevations. Participants should wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes or boots and be prepared to cross a slow-moving steam. Hiking poles are handy if you have them. Don’t forget to bring water, as well as a light snack if desired.
ABOUT THE SITE
Atkins Acres is a lovely rolling 109-acre parcel of land that was gifted in 2011 to Chesterfield County. Capital Region Land Conservancy worked with the landowner, Anna Atkins, and her family to fulfill her wishes that the property be conserved for a future public park. The land is primarily a mix of pine and hardwood forest with two sandy bottomed streams which flow through the property.
ABOUT THE GUIDES:
Mark Battista is a naturalist with extensive experience following tenure with the Chesterfield County Parks & Recreation and Virginia State Parks. He is currently semi-retired.
Ashley Moulton has 14 years of experience in ecological restoration and natural resource management in Virginia. She completed both her BS and MS in Biology at Virginia Commonwealth University with a focus on Plant Ecology and a minor in Urban and Regional Studies and Ecological Restoration from the University of Minnesota.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Registration: $15
- Advance registration is required.
- Space is limited to 20.
- Directions and waiver will be emailed to attendees upon registration.
REGISTER HERE!
Questions? Email Christina@capitalregionland.org or call 804.745.3110
