School Field Trip Transportation Grants sponsored by the Friends of Oregon RidgeCLICK HERE ►
Register for our Naturalist-Led Hikes – Me and My Pup on the Ridge or Senior StrollCLICK HERE ►
Learn about Volunteer Opportunities – Stewardship Work DaysCLICK HERE ►
Trailblazer Newsletter
The Friends of Oregon Ridge publishes a quarterly newsletter – Trailblazer.
Beginning with the Winter 2026 edition,Trailblazer will transition to a digital-only publication.
This change represents more than a new way of delivering our newsletter—it reflects our continued commitment to the mission and vision of the Friends of Oregon Ridge. As outlined in our Five-Year Strategic Plan (see our About Us page), we are committed to protecting and stewarding Oregon Ridge, educating and engaging our community, and helping ensure that this special place is preserved for generations to come.
Moving The Trailblazer to a digital format is one small but meaningful way we can put those values into practice. By reducing the paper, printing, and resources associated with producing and mailing printed newsletters, we can support a more eco-friendly and sustainable approach while continuing to strengthen how we communicate with our members and the broader community.
What will not change is our commitment to quality.
You can continue to expect the same engaging Trailblazer you know—featuring park news and updates, educational articles, volunteer and stewardship opportunities, upcoming events, beautiful photography, community stories, and information about the important work taking place throughout Oregon Ridge.
Going digital also gives us new opportunities to enhance The Trailblazer over time with timely information, convenient links to additional resources, and easier access wherever you are.
Together, we can continue to protect, educate, engage, and steward the natural treasure that is Oregon Ridge while making choices that reflect the future we are working to create.
The Healing Power of the Park
How many of you know that forest air has healing powers? There is growing evidence that spending time in a forest, like Oregon Ridge Park’s hundreds of acres of woodland, can benefit physical and mental health. It’s one of many terrific gifts at Oregon Ridge Park.
Saving 200 acres of Woods, Ridge and Trout Stream Valley for Oregon Ridge Park
While the Baltimore County Master Plan for Oregon Ridge is being developed, it is timely to remember an earlier milestone in the Park’s history. Thirty-five years ago, a group of committed citizens worked tirelessly to find a way to purchase the nearly 200-acre...
Park User Survey Results
In September 2022, the Oregon Ridge Nature Center Council invited park users to share their experiences and opinions about Oregon Ridge Park and its future. The following is a summary of what the 224 users told us: Oregon Ridge Park has been part of Baltimore County...
Oregon Ridge Park’s network of trails take you through forest, field and stream habitats
Oregon Ridge Park has always been a popular destination for hikers. Many of today’s existing trails are old logging roads dating back to the early 20th century, and many of these trails are showing their age. The Master Plan process is an opportunity to make our network of trails safer and sustainable…
Children’s Education At Oregon Ridge Park
Baltimore County is in the process of developing its Oregon Ridge Master Plan. Members of the Nature Council Board and others want to tell you about the many special outdoor activities and habitats Oregon Ridge Park has to offer. You can help encourage Baltimore...
Oregon Ridge Park User Survey 2022
This is an important time for Oregon Ridge! A master planning process has been underway and we need your input to share with Baltimore County and the consultants to ensure the future quality of the park and programs. Take a few minutes to complete the survey by...
Oregon Ridge Master Plan
Baltimore County is holding two public input meetings for the Oregon Ridge Master Plan in October. The original in person meeting has been rescheduled for October 8th from 1 PM to 3 PM at the Oregon Ridge Lodge. The other meeting (virtual) will be held October 6th at...
It’s All About the Birds (and the bees, trees, insects, flora and fauna, reptiles, aquatic life…)
While the Oregon Ridge Master Plan is being developed, members of the Baltimore Bird Club and others want to tell you about why the Park and its 900-acre forest is so important to us and the activities happening there so you can encourage Baltimore County...
Environmental Research & Science at Oregon Ridge
Baltimore County is in the process of developing its Oregon Ridge Master Plan. Members of The Oregon Ridge Nature Council Board and others want to tell you about the many special outdoor activities and habitats Oregon Ridge Park has to offer. You can help encourage...