Catoctin Mountain Park, Thurmont

The 10-15 min hike uphill was a little rough for people with varying abilities, stop saying it’s easy when you’re only considering yourself and ego. I likely wouldn’t have hiked up if I had know there was an easier path to the small waterfall base after recently injuring my knee, ankle and toes. Once up trail you’re basically there at the waterfall area. It’s not as clean as it should be and it’s unclear why individuals choose to pollute other than selfish habits passed on by selfish parents. I noticed a deck off of the hikers path and followed it out to where there’s a small parking area for wheelchair accessibility and that’s excellent! It’s a nice wide deck for easy maneuvering and it leads straight to the fall. If you’re physically abled then I do suggest climbing to the top of the waterfall as that’s where the real view is. Nothing super fancy or crowded, but just some rock climbing fun with steeper areas than others. It does get slippery so be mindful and take your time. Kids should be kept close during the climb as there are sharp, slippery and steep ridges. If you go off the regular path you’ll find some nice flora including poison ivy and oak so look up what they look like before your hike so you know what to avoid. And remember, don’t feed wildlife with chemically human food. Bring a small trash bag with you, pick up after yourself and if it’s easy enough to pick up what others left, then just do it. Do better, be kinder and these lands will flourish with you.

I'm from Southeastern VA. We don't have mountains there. Or hills...even. This place was radically different from what I am used to seeing. Love the rocky terrain, the mountains, the trees. Wish I had the chance to see the waterfalls but that just means I need to come back! Great photo oppurtunies everywhere. Clean park. Would love to come back soon!