Want to see one of Summit's newest natural spaces up close? A free guided walk on Saturday, Aug. 8, will take residents from the Summit Parkline to the city's Tiny Forest, where they'll learn how a patch of densely planted trees is helping clean the air and support local wildlife.

The walk begins near 10 Overlook Road and follows the 1.2-mile Parkline to the Tiny Forest behind the Summit Community Center at 100 Morris Ave. The event is free, open to all ages, and no registration is required. A start time had not been announced as of July 21.

Along the way, participants will hear how the Tiny Forest helps capture fine air pollution, known as PM2.5, which comes from cars, construction and other sources. The topic comes just weeks after wildfire smoke from Canada triggered air quality alerts across New Jersey.

Planted in 2022, Summit's 11,000-square-foot Tiny Forest includes more than 700 native trees, shrubs and plants. Using the Miyawaki Method, the trees are planted close together so they grow faster and develop into a self-sustaining forest over time.

The project, led by Summit's Environmental Commission, has become a destination for visitors from across New Jersey and beyond who want to see how small urban forests can improve air quality, absorb stormwater and create wildlife habitat.

The tour also highlights the Summit Parkline, the former Rahway Valley Railroad corridor that has been transformed into a walking path with views of the Manhattan skyline and reminders of the city's railroad history.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the route includes both paved and unpaved sections. Residents can check the TAPinto Summit events calendar for the tour's start time as it becomes available.