Medford is setting the stage for a new outdoor adventure designed for kids, with the introduction of its first TRACK Trail at Prescott Park. This initiative, approved back in March, is slated to open by the end of June, offering young explorers and their families a chance to engage with the natural world in a fun, educational way.
The half-mile paved trail, developed in partnership with Oregon Parks Forever and Kids in Parks, aims to transform a simple hike into an interactive experience. The trail is equipped with signage and brochures and offers an opportunity for children in grades 1 through 6 to delve into activities that foster a sense of discovery, according to a recent article by the City of Medford.
The TRACK Trail network, which already boasts 313 trails nationwide, including 19 in Oregon, is no stranger to the Pacific Northwest. Oregon Parks Forever disclosed that new trails are also in the works for Lithia Park in Ashland and McGregor Park north of Shady Cove, set to be inaugurated this spring.
Prescott Park's upcoming trail has secured financing through Oregon Parks Forever, ensuring the installation of requisite infrastructure, such as a 36-by-24-inch trailhead sign to guide the inquisitive minds at the beginning of their journey. The Medford Parks and Recreation Commission's March 25 meeting saw the proposal get the green light with a 5-2 vote, signaling a new chapter for community engagement with the natural landscape surrounding Medford.
