THURMONT
Cunningham Falls State Park has
Enjoy Kayaking on the lake at Cunningham Falls State Park.
SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE! By Edison Hatter Cunningham Falls State Park is located just a stone’s throw away from the Thurmont Town Square in the heart of the beautiful Catoctin Mountains. The Park is divided into two unique areas: the William Houck Area is located on Route 77 and contains the lake, falls, and camping area, while the Manor Area is located off of Route 15 and includes the Scales and Tales Aviary, further camping areas, and the Catoctin Iron Furnace. The Park is open year-round- from 8 a.m. to sunset from April to October and 10 a.m. to sunset from November to March. The Park is picturesque to visit regardless of the time of year; the sparkling snowfall coats the park into a winter wonderland during winter months, the reemergence of life and the blooming of flowers makes for an amazing spring backdrop, the falls provide a great swimming location to cool off during the hot summer, and the foliage in the fall makes for a colorful background. There are so many activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy at Cunningham Falls State Park. The obvious highlight of the park is the Cunningham Falls, which checks in as the highest waterfall in the state of Maryland with an approximate height of 78 feet! Hiking is one of the most popular activities in the park and there are many different hiking trails to explore. Some are short, like the half-mile Lower Trail that is easy to traverse and ends 10
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Cunningham Falls State Park is home to the highest cascading waterfall in the state of Maryland. right at the Falls, while others are much longer and tougher, like the challenging 7.5 mile Cat Rock Hike. Swimming is another popular activity at the park and a great way to cool off after completing
a hike. Swimming is permitted at designated locations around the lake area between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Lifeguards are generally on duty daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., but visitors this summer should be aware that
