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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 2 of 2 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by Jeff W. on 2/18/2005 Although I like the trails leading to Cunningham Falls, this is my favorite hike in the area. I've been on this one three times, first as a ten year old and last at 25. The trail itself is nice enough, particularly in the fall, but Wolf Rock is awesome! It is a terrific place for rock-scrambling, with lots of crevices for exploring and seeing where you end up. There were a few vultures keeping an eye on things on my last visit, but fortunately they remained hungry.
Reviewed by Anne S. on 11/10/2004 This is one of my favorite hikes in the park and if you do it in reverse, it is a great workout! 
Reviewed by Jacob K. on 10/25/2004 Wolf Rock was fun to hike, but the rock was fun too, but the crevices were scary. We did not hike over the whole thing, but it was exciting. It was tiring, but it was fun. But the rock was very slippery (it was a rainy day!). Signed, a 6 year old Cub Scout (with help from Dad). PS, Dad says the trip to Wolf Rock and Back took a bit over a leisurely 2 hours... 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 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||