Cat Rock / Chimney Rock Parking Area — Local services in Thurmont

Pretty good hike UP to the Chimney Rock and Wolf Rock areas. Good balance is a must for walking, hopping around on the cliff areas. Dangerous and deep crevices abound on both named rock formations. It wouldn't hurt to pack some bug spray and spray your head. Bugs were only around certain parts of the trail, interestingly enough.

Parking can be a little tricky if you get there at the 'wrong' time but I did see some folks get creative. Everyone on the trail seemed cordial enough to greet passersby. It's a short hike up to Chimney Rock but the views are very nice. Not such great views on the Wolf Rock, though....

Parking fills up fast, so get there early. We got there at 8:30am before the Visitor Center opened and used the portapotty in the overflow lot, which you can see from the building). You can also park at the HQ lot, which you will see first. Both lots connect to the same trail. No fee, but there's a donation box inside the Visitor Center, which opens at 9am. It has a small shop, bathrooms, and the national park...

They finally paved this lot!! Great parking spot to avoid the rush at the visitor center. Convenient trailhead right off the parking lot and right across the street. I always park here to hike...