Overton Park’s Old Forest is one of Memphis’ finest treasures.  An ecosystem dating back more than 10,000 years, it is a rare peek into what the city would have looked like before humans arrived and brought development along with them.  Some trees in the forest are hundreds of years old, and the extremely diverse plant community supports a wide range of wildlife.

Originally a 200-acre tract when Overton Park was founded in 1901, the Old Forest now comprises 142 acres following losses to development over the years.  In June 2011, 126 acres of the Old Forest were designated as a State Natural Area, permanently protecting it from future development and preserving its ecosystem.  Overton Park Conservancy manages the Old Forest State Natural Area under the supervision of the Tennessee Department of Conservation (TDEC) Division of Natural Areas.

The Old Forest contains four miles of unpaved walking trails, as well over a mile of paved trails.  It is free and open to the public during Overton Park hours (dawn to dusk).