Discover Story Trails Across Baltimore County

Summer is here and families are often looking for outdoor activities that are fun and educational. That’s where our story trails come in. We have four trails located throughout Baltimore County where families can read a picture book while walking along a path. Story trails are a great way to promote both early learning skills, by encouraging families to read together, and health literacy, by encouraging families to get outside and walk trails together.

How It Works 

Start by visiting one of the parks where our story trails are located! Enjoy the sights, sounds and fun available at those parks. Then, head to the first signpost of the story trail located at that park and follow the trail to read the next page of the book at each marker along the way. Even better, our staff changes the story roughly once per season, so you can visit year-round. 

Find a Story Trail Near You  

We have partnered with Baltimore County Recreation and Parks to place trails in a variety of park locations in the County.  

Oregon Ridge

Our first location is Oregon Ridge Park, located in Cockeysville, where families can explore the beautiful natural world and animals onsite while following the book path.  

Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum

At Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum, located in Catonsville, the story trail weaves through the trees between the museum and gardens, giving families the opportunity to experience elements of Benjamin Banneker’s accomplished life while enjoying the book.

Then, stop by the museum to learn even more about the mathematician.

Franklin Woodland Trail

Families can visit the Franklin Woodland Trail, accessible from the parking lot of our Reisterstown Branch! This story trail follows a delightful and whimsical path of engaging play amongst the trees.

At the end of the trail, families can walk right into the Reisterstown Branch to browse the collections or attend a program.

Northwest Regional Park

Our newest story trail is at the Northwest Regional Park, located in Owings Mills, starting at the Play Like a Raven playground.

This trail follows the path past the athletic fields and up to the additional playground and bathrooms, giving families visiting the park for a walk or a day of sports an engaging activity while making their way across the fields.  

What’s Next 

Keep an eye out for additional trails in the future! Baltimore County Public Library and the Baltimore County Department of Recreation and Parks are working on selecting additional locations to install a story trail.