Depression Overcome: Hike/Walk at Hermann Park

Join us for a scenic group walk on the Marvin Taylor Exercise Trail in Hermann Park, a beautiful nature trail that feels peaceful and refreshing even though it’s right in the heart of Houston. This event is great for anyone who wants to support their mental well-being through movement, nature, and connection at a relaxed pace.

Research shows that walking and spending time in natural environments can help reduce stress and lift mood by releasing feel-good neurotransmitters and calming the mind. They also offer a chance for friendly social connection, all backed by multiple studies on physical activity, mood, and outdoor exposure. [1] [2]

The trail:
The Marvin Taylor Exercise Trail is a 2-mile long loop. It's a light, flat path with gravel and dirt surfaces plus shaded areas that make it enjoyable even on warm days. It’s suitable for most fitness levels and we’ll keep the pace easy so everyone can enjoy the experience together. Trail information: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/texas/marvin-taylor-exercise-trail

Where to meet:
Meet at the Miller Outdoor Theatre (ticketing area) at 1:00 PM. We'll head off from there around 1:10 PM.

Parking:
You’ll find free parking in several areas around Hermann Park. I recommend parking in Lot E or Lot F as they are close to the meetup point. Parking map here: https://hermannpark.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/hpc_commons_digital_map.pdf

References:
[1] Antonelli, M., Barbieri, G., & Donelli, D. (2023). The effects of forest bathing on psychological well-being: Systematic review and meta-analysis. International Journal of Mental Health Nursing.
[2] Navarro-González, D. et al. (2023). Forest bathing and hiking benefits for mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic in Mediterranean regions. [Journal]