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 Reporter |
Summary: Catoctin National Park boasts some excellent hiking trails with multiple interconnects allowing a lot of flexibility. This particular circuit gives you a taste for the geology of the area and treats you with some spectacular views. I shared this hike with my 8 year old son. He was able to manage most of the terrain, save for Wolf Rock. As you begin your ascent you will soon come to your first of several intersections. If, like us, you like to save the restful scenic overlooks for the end of your hike head south towards the Park Headquarters. During this portion of the trail note the abundant greenrock. You will eventually wind back North where you will come upon a sign directing you towards Chimney Rock. This quartzite rock formation is breathtaking! Next is a relaxing stroll to Wolf Rock. Also quartzite and marked with many deep crevices. Exercise *extreme* caution, particularly with the younger hikers! Another short ascent and then downhill! Trailhead: The trailhead is located in the Catoctin Mountain National Park. To reach the trailhead take route 15 towards Thurmont where you will pick up 77 West. You will see the entrance for the park approximately 2.5 miles on the right. Proceed into the park about .5 miles where you will see the trail parking area. (Lat:39.63975 Lon:-77.44537) Trail Guides for Chimney Rock and Wolf Rock Circuit: Cunningham Falls State Park Trail Guide by MD DNR (MD DNR) Hikes in Western Maryland by Golightly (Golightly) Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: National Park Service, Catoctin Mountain Park. Visitor Info: 301-663-9388. Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Brian Talbert, who has posted 20 other hikes on this site. To visit this reporters web site, click here. Trail Reviews Page 1 of 2 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by rwb on 9/20/2009 A nice day hike for famililes, even the little ones can huck this. use caution in Spring and fall as weather can turn quickly, exposure is moderate. great views from the summit and plenty of scrambling for the kids.
Reviewed by Rich G on 6/27/2009 Great hike, We had a large group of hikers and had a wonderful time. We had a few 8year old girls with us and they did fine. We even got to see a Rattlesnake at Wolf rock. 
Reviewed by sabrina on 6/2/2008 really buietful place to vist with a family
Reviewed by DMW on 11/23/2007 This was a very nice hike. Was able to take "GREAT PHOTOS", and would definitely hike again*** ***GREAT COUPLES OR GROUP HIKE***
Reviewed by Mark on 5/23/2007 I climb here. It always amazes to see the kids, unattended running across the top of the crevasses. Though that act in itself leads to some serious accident potential, very few know of the real unseen danger at Wolf Rock. Rattlesnakes. They are beutiful, green and black, and they lay very very camoflouged, in the weeds atop all those crevasses. I have actually had to point them out to families who have kids running blindly about. So look where you step and enjoy.
Reviewed by H on 10/20/2006 Coming from a Person who has been hiking all of his short 15 years of life, this is my personal favorite. Highly recommend doing the circuit and exploring below Chimney Rock, where more crevaces can be found. Don't hesitate to go off the trail!
Reviewed by lkm on 10/9/2006 I have been hiking almost as long as I've been walking. East of the Mississippi, this is my favorite.
Reviewed by Kevin on 1/20/2006 This is my favorite hike. I use it as often as I can as a personal retreat from life. It's not difficult once you pass the original steep uphill hike with switchbacks, and hiking on Wolf Rock is dangerous but that's what makes it so exciting. Highly recommended. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Maryland Hiking, Maryland Trails, Maryland Hikes, Frederick County Hiking, Frederick County Trails, Frederick County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||