search
search
add New trip
Rock formation with mountains in the background

Catoctin Mountain Park

calendar_monthSep–Novbest time schedule2 daysplan for child_careYeswith kids confirmation_numberFreeentry
Catoctin Mountain ParkYour own route Plan a trip here →

Catoctin Mountain Park is a natural area in Maryland known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities. Visitors come to explore its 25 miles of hiking trails, which range from easy walks to challenging hikes, and to enjoy fishing in Big Hunting Creek.

Read more

The park is particularly popular in the fall when the foliage transforms into a palette of colors. While it offers a peaceful retreat, travelers should be prepared for varying weather conditions and the possibility of crowded trails during peak seasons.

In pictures

A stone and wood building with plants and flowers in front
A stone and wood building with plants and flowers in front

Things to do

8-Mile Loop Trail
4-6 Hours · Spring/Summer

Covering the majority of the sites on the east side of the park, the 8-Mile Loop Trail provides hikers with a...

Cabin Camping
Spring/Summer

Lodging in the park can facilitate groups both large and small.

Fishing at Lewis Pond
1-2 Hours · Winter/Spring

The Lewis Pond offers a quiet and peaceful opportunity to go freshwater fishing.

Fly Fishing
Winter/Spring

Big Hunting Creek is a catch-and-return, fly fishing stream.

Rock Climbing
Spring/Summer

Wolf Rock is the only location on site open to technical rock climbing.

Deerfield Nature Trail
40-60 Minutes · Winter/Spring

This 1.3 mile loop trail travels along Owens Creek, exploring the historical and ecological importance of the...

Brown's Farm Trail
30-45 Minutes · Winter/Spring

The Brown's Farm Trail is a mostly flat, half-mile loop trail that passes through several different forest eco...

Picnic Areas
Spring/Summer

Catoctin Mountain Park offers many places for individuals to sit down and enjoy a meal under the forest canopy...

Park Museum
Winter/Spring

Step inside the visitor center to walk through the park museum exhibits.

Catoctin Junior Ranger Program
40-120 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Come explore Catoctin Mountain Park with our Junior Ranger Book!

Orienteering
Winter/Spring

If you would like to practice your orienteering skills, the park maintains courses that are available for publ...

Cross-Country Skiing
Winter

Generally, the best skiing is along certain sections of park roads which are closed to vehicular traffic.

Practical

At a glance

Established
1936
Open
Daily Sunrise to Sunset
Accessibility
some trails are wheelchair accessible
Address
14707 Park Central Road, Thurmont, MD 21788
Opening hours
Daily Sunrise to Sunset
Phone
3016639388
Price
Free
Website
www.nps.gov

Things to know

Parking can fill up quickly on weekends, arrive early.
No admission fee is required to enter the park.
Dress in layers, as temperatures can change throughout the day.
Bring water and snacks, as amenities are limited.

Photo: NPS Photo/Peggie Gaul