Catoctin Mountain (Rating: A)

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "I accept" to be permitted on the hike.

Let’s get out and enjoy Catoctin Mountain Park, one of the most popular hiking areas in Maryland. With great overlooks, including Chimney Rock, Wolf Rock, Thurmont Vista, and the Blue Ridge Summit Overlook, plus a side trip to Cunningham Falls, the total length of the hike will be about 9.5 miles and 1800 feet elevation gain.

Leaving the parking lot at the Visitors Center we will hike to Chimney Rock using the long approach that adds distance and elevation. Next we’ll visit Wolf Rock before heading on to Thurmont Vista, where we’ll have lunch. We will then continue along to the Blue Ridge Summit Overlook before heading to Cunningham Falls. After checking out the falls, we’ll head back to the parking lot. The pace will be 2.0-2.5 mph. The ascent to Chimney Rock is steep and not for beginners, but will make the necessary stops to keep everyone rested and make the the trip fun.

We’ll meet at the right-side parking lot in front of the Catoctin Mountain Visitors Center at 6602 Foxville Rd (MD77), Thurmont, MD 21788 (39.63446231078995, -77.44999780415685). Note that this is not the Park Headquarters, which you will pass on your way to the Visitors Center. The Visitors Center is about a mile beyond the entrance to the Park Headquarters.

The hike will start at 9:15 AM after introductions and a brief chat about the hike. Please arrive 15 minutes in advance so you can get all your gear sorted out and we can get hiking on time. Please bring 2 liters of water, snacks/lunch, and respect the need for water. Dress appropriately for the weather and wear hiking shoes or other rugged footwear. While there are no stream crossings, poles are always a good idea. The hike will be weather dependent – no rain. Dogs are permitted on this hike in accordance with the NVHC Dog Policy. https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy

Neither the Club nor the hike leaders are responsible for coordinating transportation to/from the trailhead. Carpooling is organized by the participants and they participate at their own risk. Note that there are bathrooms at the Visitors Center.

Map for hike: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/maryland/catoctin-mountain-extended-loop-trail

You must be experienced in hikes of this distance and elevation gain. This hike is suitable for experienced, fit hikers who have done similar ones in past few months. Though the total distance is single digit, this hike can be challenging with steep climbs up and down. If you have ANY question about your ability to complete this hike, please contact me.

Leader: Scott H (703-431-3010)