Discover Our Story Trails Across Baltimore County

Reading, sunshine and family time—our story trails have it all. We’re proud to offer seven locations throughout Baltimore County where you 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.   

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. 

Holt Park 

This story trail is located at the 12-acre land of Holt Park and Center for the Arts in Overlea, which was dedicated to the county by Lillian Holt in 1976 for the community to enjoy. Wind through the newly paved paths as you enjoy books about various forms of art.  

Lake Roland 

Towson's Lake Roland has a story trail which starts just beyond the boardwalk entrance. The paved path winds past the Lake Roland Nature Center, Acorn Hill Playground and Paw Point Dog Park, offering fun and scenic stops for families as they experience the story. 

Northwest Regional Park 

Our most western 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 restrooms, giving families visiting the park for a walk or a day of sports an engaging activity while making their way across the fields.

Oregon Ridge 

Oregon Ridge Park, located in Cockeysville, is home to our very first story trail—where families can explore the beautiful natural world and animals onsite while following the book path.   

The Fields at Renaissance Park 

The trail is nestled in this expansive park in the heart of Essex. It begins by the playground, and families can enjoy the walking path that leads them around a small pond. There are plenty of benches for you to rest along the way.  

What’s Next  

Did you love the book you read along the trails? Browse the catalog to place a hold on the books so you can read them at home.