Catoctin Mountain Park, Thurmont MD

I'm back, after a long break. I wanted to share this awesome park with you. Catoctin Mountain Park in Thurmont, Maryland. Located right off of Route 15 this park is just down the Highway from Gettysburg and is worth the trip! The park offers hiking for various skill levels and is free admission. The kids had a lovely time creek walking along the Blue Blazes Whiskey Still trail, which is accessible from the visitor center parking lot. They were all able to become junior rangers as well. The visitor center has a history and nature display. I've never seen a beaver that close, even if it was stuffed, it was cool! 
Catoctin Mountain park borders Cunningham falls state park. Cunningham falls state park charges a small fee for parking, but has great hiking,- yes to a waterfall- a playground/picnic area by the lake; it is really lovely. 
Before I end this post, I must share a picture book recommendation. 
We enjoyed The Wild Woods, by Simon James this week. This story is about a girl walking with her grandfather. She learns to enjoy nature and then leave it alone for others to enjoy, or for next time. I thought this book provided a teaching moment for us before going to the national park.

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