Thurmont MarylandATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Thurmont, Maryland.
1. Catoctin Mountain Park
PRESIDENTIAL PARK RETREAT
Catoctin Mountain Park offers 25 miles of scenic hiking trails and numerous outdoor activities including camping, fishing, and picnicking. Visitors can explore the natural beauty while enjoying the fresh mountain air and wildlife viewing opportunities. Though Camp David (the Presidential retreat) is located within the park boundaries, it remains off-limits to the public for security reasons.
2. Cunningham Falls State Park
MARYLAND'S LARGEST WATERFALL
Cunningham Falls State Park features a spectacular 78-foot cascading waterfall, the largest in Maryland, alongside a 43-acre man-made lake. The park spans 5,000 acres with two developed areas: the William Houck Area with lake access and trail to the falls, and the Manor Area featuring the historic Catoctin Furnace and Scales and Tales Aviary. Visitors can enjoy camping, hiking, swimming, picnicking, boating, and fishing in this natural paradise.
3. Catoctin Wildlife Preserve
INTERACTIVE ANIMAL EXPERIENCE
Catoctin Wildlife Preserve offers an interactive wildlife experience with engaging safari rides, animal feeding, and petting opportunities. The preserve features a variety of healthy animals and educational children's areas designed to foster appreciation for wildlife. Visitors can get up close with numerous species while learning about conservation efforts and natural habitats.
4. Springfield Manor Winery Brewery and Distillery
TRIPLE CRAFT BEVERAGE EXPERIENCE
Springfield Manor Winery Brewery and Distillery provides a unique triple-threat craft beverage experience in the beautiful Catoctin Mountains. The venue produces and serves its own wines, craft beers, and distilled spirits in a picturesque setting. Visitors can tour the facilities, sample the products, and enjoy the scenic countryside views.
5. Catoctin Mountain Orchard
FRESH FRUIT PARADISE
Catoctin Mountain Orchard offers visitors the chance to pick their own seasonal fruits and vegetables or purchase freshly harvested produce from their market. The family-owned orchard produces a wide variety of fruits including apples, peaches, cherries, and berries throughout the growing season. Their bakery also serves delicious homemade treats using fruits grown on-site, making it a perfect destination for food lovers.
6. Loy's Station Covered Bridge
HISTORIC WOODEN BRIDGE
Loy's Station Covered Bridge is a beautifully preserved historic wooden bridge dating back to the 19th century. The picturesque structure spans Owens Creek and features the distinctive covered design that once protected travelers from the elements. Visitors can walk through the bridge and enjoy the adjacent Loy's Station Park with its playground and picnic facilities.
7. Catoctin Breeze Vineyard & Winery
BOUTIQUE MOUNTAIN WINERY
Catoctin Breeze Vineyard & Winery is a boutique winery nestled in the scenic foothills of the Catoctin Mountains. The winery specializes in crafting small-batch wines using sustainable practices and locally-sourced grapes. Visitors can enjoy tastings on the patio overlooking the vineyard or participate in special events that showcase wine paired with local foods.
8. Lawyer's Winterbrook Farm
FAMILY FARM ADVENTURE
Lawyer's Winterbrook Farm offers seasonal family entertainment including a massive corn maze, pumpkin patches, and hayrides during the fall months. The working farm provides hands-on agricultural experiences and farm-themed activities for visitors of all ages. During winter months, the farm transforms to offer different seasonal attractions that continue to draw visitors throughout the year.
9. Thurmont Trolley Trail
HISTORIC RAIL PATH
The Thurmont Trolley Trail follows the path of the former trolley system that connected Frederick to Thurmont until 1954. Restored by the Thurmont Lions Club, this once-abandoned track has been transformed into a popular hiking and biking path that showcases the area's transportation history. The trail provides a scenic route through town, offering exercise opportunities for locals and visitors alike.
10. Catoctin Furnace
18TH CENTURY IRON WORKS
Catoctin Furnace is a historic iron furnace dating from the 1770s that showcases early American industry and settlement in the region. Located at the base of Cunningham Falls State Park, the site provides insights into the iron-making process that was vital to colonial development. Visitors can explore the restored structures and learn about the technology and labor that powered this important industrial site.
11. Blue Blazes Whiskey Still
PROHIBITION-ERA MOONSHINE SITE
The Blue Blazes Whiskey Still in Catoctin Mountain Park preserves the history of illegal moonshine production during Prohibition. This reconstructed still sits at the original location where bootleggers once crafted illicit spirits using mountain spring water. Visitors can learn about the cat-and-mouse game between moonshiners and revenuers that characterized this colorful chapter in American history.
12. Gateway Market
LOCAL CULINARY TREASURES
Gateway Market offers a selection of locally-produced foods, crafts, and specialty items reflecting the agricultural bounty of the Catoctin Mountain region. The market serves as a hub for regional farmers and artisans to showcase their handcrafted goods and fresh produce. Visitors can sample and purchase unique food items and gifts while supporting the local economy.
13. Scenic Byways-Journey Through Hallowed Ground
HISTORIC DRIVING TOUR
The Journey Through Hallowed Ground Scenic Byway passes through Thurmont, offering a driving tour of historically significant sites related to American history. This designated route showcases Civil War battlefields, pristine natural areas, and landmarks considered sacred to the nation's heritage. Travelers along the byway can explore numerous historic locations while enjoying the scenic countryside and modern amenities.
14. Big Hunting Creek
PREMIER TROUT FISHING STREAM
Big Hunting Creek flows through Cunningham Falls State Park and is renowned as one of Maryland's premier trout fishing destinations. The clear mountain stream features varied terrain including pools, riffles, and runs that provide ideal habitat for native and stocked trout species. Anglers from throughout the region visit this scenic waterway to test their skills against the creek's wily fish.
15. Rambler Inn
HISTORIC MOUNTAIN LODGING
The Rambler Inn provides comfortable accommodations for travelers exploring the Catoctin Mountain region and its numerous attractions. Located conveniently in Thurmont, the inn serves as a base camp for outdoor adventures, winery tours, and historical explorations. Guests can enjoy local hospitality while staying within easy reach of parks, trails, and scenic drives.