PATC Hikes & Events

Cunningham Falls State Park: Cat Rock and Bob's Hill, A Moderate/Strenuous 8.4 Mile Hike

SEE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON REGISTRATION UNDER "NOTES."

A hike up Catoctin Mountain to the summit of Cat Rock (elev. 1,560 feet) yields the reward of an unforgettable view of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Frederick Valley. Although no one knows for sure, Cat Rock got its name either from its resemblance to a cat or from the fact that bobcats have been seen there.

At Cat Rock's peak, the quartzite outcrop is extensive and spectacular, featuring jagged cliffs with a jumble of giant boulders below, forming an intricate network of caves and deep crevices. The dry, exposed rocks support little vegetation, but do feature a variety of colorful lichens and mosses. The expansive forests surrounding these geologic wonders are maturing second growth. Historically, the trees were cut to support charcoal production at the Catoctin Furnace between 1776 to 1903.

(Portions of narrative information provided on this page are provided with permission granted from the Maryland Department of Natural Resources).

Bring a lunch or snack to enjoy at the summit.

Time to Meet: Please meet at 9:45 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 10:00

Directions to Trailhead:
The GPS Coordinates are 39.588855, -77.435561
The Street address to the park entrance is 12917 Catoctin Furnace Road, Thurmont, MD 21788. This address is for Mikes Auto Body, which is across the street from the park’s parking lot.

Contact Information:
Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike Leaders are Christa; 410-610-6254, and Tim; 202-744-0289. Call or text as needed.

Details
Rating: Moderate/Strenuous
Distance: 8.4 Miles
Elevation Gain: Approximately 1640 ft
Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour
Facilities: Toilet at trailhead.
Fees: Maryland Pass or $3 for MD residents and $5 for out of State

Cancellation:
In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting.

Schaeffer Farm Trails, Germantown, MD: A Moderate 6-Mile Hike

SEE IMPORTANT INFORMATION ON REGISTRATION UNDER "NOTES."

Seneca Creek State Park spans over 6,300 acres, following the course of Seneca Creek as it winds toward the Potomac River. The park is renowned for its recreational opportunities—boating on Clopper Lake, picnicking, and over 50 miles of hiking and biking trails. Schaeffer Farm, situated on the park’s northern edge near Germantown, is a network of interconnected trails that trace their origins to former farmland, now reclaimed by nature and transformed for outdoor recreation.

The 6-mile hike begins and ends at the parking area off Schaeffer Road. The trail is well-marked, with various color-coded segments—White, Red, Yellow, Blue, and Orange. Schaeffer Farm enjoys diversity. The hike wanders through mature hardwood forests, past wildflower-strewn meadows, along the edges of open fields, and over wooden bridges that cross gentle creeks. We will also hike on a trail thorough the middle of a corn field.

Dogs are allowed on the Schaeffer Farm Trail, but they must be on a leash at all times.

Time to Meet: Please meet at 9:45 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 10:00

Directions to Trailhead:
It is suggested to use the GPS coordinates (see below). But if you need a physical address, going west on Schaffer Road, go just past 14920 Schaeffer Road, Germantown, MD 20874 and turn left, then stay left on the next intersection and travel up the road about 100 yards to the parking lot.

The GPS Coordinates are 39.14274, -77.31009.

Contact Information:
Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike Leader is Tim; 202-744-0289. Call or text as needed.

Details
Rating: Moderate
Distance: 6 miles
Elevation Gain: Approximately 460 feet
Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour
Facilities: Toilets can be found near the trailhead
Fees: No entrance fees

Cancellation:
In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting.

The Ricketts Glen waterfall hike, 7-mile Falls Trail loop, is a breathtaking, rugged journey through a National Natural Landmark featuring over 22 stunning waterfalls, including the 94-foot Ganoga Falls. It is often described as one of the best waterfall hikes in the eastern U.S., characterized by steep, narrow rocky paths, old-growth forests, and lush, dramatic scenery.

Key Details of the Hike:

• The Waterfall Experience: The trail system follows Kitchen Creek through deep gorges, offering views of 21-22 named waterfalls, ranging from 9 to 94 feet.
• Difficulty: This is a challenging hike. It is steep, often muddy, and narrow with many steps and exposed roots.
• Loop Options: The full loop is about 6.3–7 miles, to see the main attractions.
• Scenery: The area is characterized by ancient, old-growth timber and narrow rocky ravines.

Important Tips for Hikers:

• Prepare for Conditions: The trail can be slippery and wet; sturdy footwear is essential.
• Timing: The trail is popular, so it can get crowded. It is highly recommended to visit after recent rain for the best, most "raging" waterfall views.
• Other Advice: While beautiful, the steep, rocky terrain may be difficult for those with bad knees.

We have a 10 am start to accommodate people coming from VA. Please arrive 10 to 15 minutes before our start time.
I would recommend staying at a local hotel in Buckhorn or Lightstreet, PA
Meeting location Rt 118 Trailhead parking lot: 41.30030657190196, -76.27232964596247

Notes: