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Hike Chimney Rock at Catoctin Mountain Park

Thurmont, Maryland

4.2/5
based on 5 reviews

Details

Distance

5 miles

Elevation Gain

600 ft

Route Type

Loop

Description

Added by Brad Duncan

Easy access and parking at Catoctin Mountain make this an easy to locate day trip. Parking throughout the park offers visitors the option to piece together their hikes based on ability, landmarks, and distance.

Chimney Rock is the quintessential breathtaking view that makes a hike worthwhile. By parking at the most northeast parking lot on the trail map you are able to include the sweeping views of Thurmont Vista, and Wolf Rock on your way to Chimney Rock. Highly recommend visiting in the fall, and on weekdays if possible, as the park is popular and can become very crowded.

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Food Nearby
Forest
Groups
Picnic Area
Scenic
Wildflowers
Wildlife

Hike Chimney Rock at Catoctin Mountain Park Reviews

This was super pleasant during the winter. It wasn't too cold (although pretty windy up top, so layer up) and I'd done the hike (as a run) earlier in the year so I knew what to expect.

Close proximity to D.C. and fantastic views! The last section on the way back to the visitors center is probably the most tiring part in my opinion due the the continuous small ups and downs. Overall a very nice local hike!

Fun looped trail, all of the way around to see all vistas and waterfall is about 8 miles total. Some area are available now for bouldering so bring your mat! Park at hog rock parking lot t and easily access some rocks to scale.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hike Catoctin Mountain

Hike the Catoctin Mountain Extended Loop Trail

Cat Rock via Old Misery Trail

Hike to Cunningham Falls

Camp at the Adirondack Shelters in Catoctin Mountain Park

Hike to Devil's Racecourse on the Appalachian Trail