Thurmont, MD Visitor Guide

Visitors Guide

Thurmont M A RY L A N D

to the Mountains Gateway

thurmontmainstreet.com

I love this town.

I love this town.

Thanks, Thurmont.

I love being here to help in a community where people are making a difference every day.

Thank you for all you do.

Thanks, Thurmont.

Alex Uphold Ins Agcy Inc I love being here to help in a community where Alex Uphold, Agent people are making a difference every day.

31 Water St, Ste A Thurmont, MD 21788 Thank you for all you do.

Bus: 301-271-3113

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Alex Uphold Ins Agcy Inc Alex Uphold, Agent 2007005 31 Water St, Ste A Thurmont, MD 21788 Bus: 301-271-3113

State Farm, Bloomington, IL

2007005

State Farm, Bloomington, IL

ThurmontMainStreet.com

Thurmont Kountry Kitchen 17 Water Street • Thurmont, MD 301.271.4071 www.thurmontkountrykitchen.com

Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Hours: Sunday 7am - 7pm Monday - Friday 8am - 8pm • Saturday 7am - 8pm

Just like home, only we do the dishes!

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Welcome

to T H U R M O N T

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Dear Visitors, Hello, and welcome to Thurmont, Maryland also known as “Gateway To The Mountains”. Thurmont is located in Northern Frederick County where the beautiful Catoctin Mountains serve as a picturesque backdrop with panoramic views from several hiking trails. In addition to our mountains you will find rolling hills of scenic views and a countryside landscape rich with family farms that have been cultivated for generations.

While visiting Thurmont, you will definitely want to explore our state and national parks along with our Thurmont Trolley Trail on historic Main Street. On the pages ahead you will discover a variety of trails that showcase hiking, cycling, art, orchards, wine, craft beverages, covered bridges, attractions, cuisine, exotic animals, and yes, even a wedding trail!

We are confident that we have an exciting trail for everyone of all ages to experience and enjoy. In addition to all the great trails in Thurmont, we are also located in the Heart of The Civil War Heritage Area, and along the Journey Through Hallowed Ground National Scenic Highway.

Thurmont is conveniently located one hour from D.C. and Baltimore, and fifteen minutes south of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.

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PARKS & RECREATION

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DINING & LODGING

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COVERED BRIDGES

Find your trail...

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WEDDING DESTINATION

Happy Trails!

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EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS

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WINERIES & ORCHARDS

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THURMONT MAIN STREET

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ART ON MAIN

P.S. We’ve been social distancing for decades…

GETAWAY to the

Gateway

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Thurmont Office of Economic Development 11 Water Street, Thurmont, MD 21788 • thurmontmainstreet.com Thanks to Frederick County Tourism TRIPP grant funding to assist with the visitor guide production. www.visitfrederick.org

Town of Thurmont 615 East Main Street, Thurmont, MD 21788 • thurmont.com

Photo Credits Mindful Focus Photography, Katie Despeaux, John Kinnaird, Denise Wyant, C. Kurt Holter, visitfrederick.org, shutterstock.com, freepik.com, nps.gov, dnr.maryland.gov

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Fun Facts about

THURMONT

Thurmont was originally called Mechanicstown. The Western Maryland Railway asked that the name be

changed because of similar names on their route. In 1896 the name was changed to Thurmont, although that was not the first choice. The townspeople wanted Blue Ridge Mountain City, but the WMRW said that was too long.

Parks RECREATION &

CATOCTIN MOUNTAIN PARK 14707 Park Central Road Open daily from dawn until dusk

Thurmont is home to the Presidential Retreat Camp David and was originally named “Shangri-La” by

President Franklin Roosevelt in 1942 after a place in the James Hilton novel, The Lost Horizon. The name was changed in 1953 by President Eisenhower from Shangri-La to Camp David in honor of his grandson.

Thurmont is the birthplace of Admiral Russell Randolph Waesche, Sr., born on January 6, 1886. He served as the eighth Commandant of the United States Coast Guard from 1936 to 1946. Adm. Waesche oversaw the Coast Guard during World War II. He had ten years of service as the U.S. Coast Guard Commandant. He held the post longer than any other Commandant.

Thurmont resident Jacob Weller produced the first self striking matches in the U.S. in the 1820s. His Lucifer Matches were

manufactured at his blacksmith shop on West Main Street and although selfstriking matches would become extremely popular, Jacob never patented his product. He died virtually penniless in 1831.

With the arrival of the rail service in 1870, Mechanicstown (Thurmont) saw a growth in business and prosperity. Thurmont

became a destination town for rail travelers from Baltimore looking to escape the city heat. At least a dozen hotels and guest houses sprang up to accommodate this demand. Several of the original buildings still stand and serve today as apartments or family homes.

One of the first mechanical railroad crossing signals was invented and patented in 1896 by Thurmont resident Mr. Richard O’Toole. His American Electric Magnetic Crossing Signal

for protecting highway crossings of railroads enjoyed a short period of success. After his involvement with the crossing signals he returned to Thurmont and became an accomplished photographer.

Thurmont was the destination for the final run of one of the last interurban trolley systems on the East coast. On February 20, 1954 two trolley cars of the

Hagerstown & Frederick Railroad headed from Frederick to Thurmont. After a short ceremony at the Western Maryland Railway junction, the two cars headed back to Frederick ending a half century of cheap and reliable transportation between Thurmont and Frederick.

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Visitor Center: Start your adventure at the Visitor Center for an introduction to the Park and the many ways to explore it. Take a step back in time and enjoy new interpretive exhibits covering the rich history of the park, including the people and events that shaped it into a national park and a modern-day refuge for relaxation, recreation, and reconnection to nature. American Indians, farmers, iron makers, the WPA, CCC, Jobs Corps and so many others played a role in making Catoctin Mountain Park the special place it is today.

Hiking: The Park maintains 25 miles of hiking trails with difficulty ratings between easy for the beginner, and strenuous for the most experienced hiker.

Camping: Individual, family, and small-group camping for tents and small RVs located in Owens Creek Campground. (There are no hook-ups.)

Camp Misty Mount is a cabin rental facility for individuals, families, or small groups. The historic stone and wood cabins were built in 1936 as part of a federal Great Depression-era jobs plan to build recreational camps.

Each cabin has a fire pit and grill, and a swimming pool is available for all guests from June through August.

Picnicking: Catoctin Mountain Park offers many places for individuals to sit down and enjoy a meal under the forest canopy. Parking area at the Visitor Center, Thurmont Vista, and Hog Rock offer picnic tables for folks to enjoy a home brought snack. No grills or ground fires are allowed at these sites. Grills are available at the Chestnut Picnic Area and the Owens Creek Picnic Area.

While you may unplug from the world while visiting, you can also plug-in at one of the park’s EV charging stations!

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Parks & RECREATION

Parks & RECREATION CUNNINGHAM FALLS STATE PARK

COMMUNITY PARK

HOUCK AREA / LAKE & FALLS 14274 William Houck Drive

21 Frederick Road Open daily from dawn until dusk

MANOR AREA 6709 Cunningham Falls Park Road

Hiking

Camping & Cabins

Basketball

Horseshoes

Picnicking

Boating

Fitness Trail

Tennis

Swimming

Fishing & Hunting

Grills

Playgrounds

Cunningham Falls State Park is home to the highest cascading waterfall in the state of Maryland. You will not want to miss this iconic waterfall which also includes a handicap accessible entrance.

The Park offers a trail system to fit all hiking abilities.

The trail terrains vary from short, flat hikes to steep and rocky ascents that will challenge even the experienced hiker. You will explore seven hiking trails in the William Houck area and four trails in The Manor Area.

The picturesque lake in the William Houck Area is surrounded by sand just like at the ocean that is at the foothills of the beautiful Catoctin Mountain! Swimming is permitted Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend in three designated areas of Hunting Creek Lake.

Visit the historic Catoctin Iron Furnace. The Furnace was a site for iron-making for 127 years from 1776 to 1903. This landmark on the National Historic Register is a place where visitors can step back in time.

The Thurmont Community Park is the site of many large events throughout the year including Colorfest, Halloween in the Park, Main Street Farmers Market, the “Day in the Park” summer park program, and movie nights. Community Park is perfect for lots of activities including simply relaxing to enjoy nature by listening to the rippling of water from nearby Hunting Creek. Want to stretch your legs along your journey? Stop by and walk the paved fitness trail complete with exercise stations for all levels. Grab some takeout from one of our local restaurants and enjoy your lunch on one of the many picnic tables. Want to grill some hot dogs? Pull up to one of the many grills, fire it up, and grill your favorite picnic food. Planning a family reunion? Community Park has three beautiful pavilions to rent for an event. Contact the town of Thurmont to rent a pavilion at 301-271-7313.

EAST END PARK 800 East Main Street Open daily from dawn until dusk Dog Park

Playgrounds

Ball Fields

The East End Park Inclusive Playground is one of the first all-inclusive playgrounds in the area. The facility, constructed in 2018, provides opportunities for children of all abilities to play together.

The playground is designed to address the needs of children with limited physical abilities, children on the autism spectrum, and children with sight impairments.

This wonderful playground is truly built for everyone!

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Parks & RECREATION

Parks & RECREATION

Bird WATCHING

THURMONT TROLLEY TRAIL East Main Street and East Moser Road Open daily from dawn until 10pm Walking

Biking

Jogging

Nature Watching

Grab your binoculars and backpack and head to Thurmont for some serious bird watching!

A Piece of The Past Preserved for The Future You can’t visit Thurmont without taking a stroll on the Trolley Trail!

The Trolley Trail is built on an old trolley line that served Thurmont in the 1900’s. The trolley to Thurmont was the last to run and continued freight service until April 26, 1961. A local group was formed in the mid 1990’s to build a multi-use trail on the old line. In 2006, the Thurmont Lions Club refurbished and extended the trail. Recently, the H&F Trolley Trail Association (HFTTA) connected the trail to the library’s Nature Trail to create the “Library Loop”, extending the path to over 1 mile. The HFTTA organization has plans to continue extending the line in the coming years.

The trail starts on East Main Street at “Old #5”, a freight car that was restored and placed on display next to the old powerhouse that provided electric to the trolley line. The powerhouse features murals memorializing the town’s history. The trail passes Thurmont’s Memorial Park and meanders along until crossing Big Hunting Creek, a wild brown trout stream. The trail then crosses Moser Road to the “Library Loop”, a beautiful, wooded path that passes by the Thurmont Regional Library. Just past the library the trail turns into a boardwalk taking you out to Thurmont Blvd and the main trail.

Take a walk, run, or bike ride on the trail and enjoy this beautiful amenity while you’re in town.

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Are you a bird watcher and enjoy documenting different species of birds?

If the answer is YES, then you will want to take a trip to our state and federal park.

Baltimore Oriole in the Cato ctin Mounta ins

cker Red-bellied Woodpe tains un Mo in the Catoctin

wn Flutter do rail the birdy t

The National Park Service states, “Over 200 species are thought to occur in the park during different times of year, including the wild turkey, which started to reoccupy its old habitat in the 1960’s.” The National Park Service attributes hardwood forest and stream environment as an excellent habitat for many species of birds.

For the serious bird-watchers, ebird.org has documented sightings of 130 species of birds in the Catoctin Mountains including the Baltimore Oriole and the majestic bald eagle.

A study by The Maryland Ornithological Society reports that these two parks have breeding populations of Hooded, and Kentucky Warbler, American Redstart, Yellow-throated Vireo, and Baltimore Oriole. Most regularly seen is the woodpecker species and small woodland birds.

The bald eagle can be spotted quite often in the Catoctin Mountains too!

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Parks & RECREATION

Hit the Road Thurmont has been a cycling haven for decades!

Come explore our countryside roads that offer both flat terrain and rolling hills with an abundance of scenic views along the way. Cycling enthusiasts won’t want to miss our covered bridge bike trails!

Three bridges to discover while exploring the roads less traveled:

One bridge tour - 17 miles

Two bridge tour - 16 miles

Three bridge tour - 21 miles

Need a repair? You will find two bike fix-it stations along your journey. One is located at Community Park, 21 Frederick Road, and the second one is located at 123 East Main Street beside the Trolley car and Murals on Main.

For more information on our bridge tour cycling routes just go to thurmontmainstreet.com and download the “Tour Thurmont” brochure.

ANNUAL CIVIL WAR CENTURY RIDE Thurmont is also home to the Civil War Century Ride sponsored each year by the Baltimore Bicycling Club. The Civil War Century Ride attracts over 1,600 cyclists every September to enjoy famous historical sites and breathtaking scenery. The Civil War Century Ride is an event that includes five unique routes that are designed for different ability levels. It begins with the Covered Bridge Quarter Century at 25 miles and ends with the highest ability level featuring the iconic Civil War Century at 102 miles.

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COVERED

Bridges

Did you know that Thurmont is home to 3 of only 6 remaining covered bridges in Maryland?

LOY’S STATION COVERED BRIDGE

circa

1880

This original truss bridge is located on Old Frederick Road, south of MD 77, east of Thurmont. It is a barn-red, one-lane coveredbridge that spans Owens Creek. The bridge’s design utilizes multiple king post trusses covered with clapboard. It was rebuilt after an arsonist’s fire nearly destroyed it in 1991. The bridge is 90 feet in length and 12.2 feet high.

Loy’s Station Park is adjacent to the covered bridge. Park amenities include fishing, grills, picnic tables, picnic shelter, horseshoe pits and play equipment. Park open year-round 8am - sunset.

RODDY ROAD COVERED BRIDGE

built

1856

This single-span bridge over Owens Creek is found just east of US 15 where Roddy Creek Road intersects with Roddy Road. The smallest of the county’s covered bridges, it features a King Post design and measures 40 feet in length.

Relax with a picnic, go fishing or explore the natural beauty at this park and bridge. Park open 8am - sunset.

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COVERED

Bridges

UTICA MILLS

COVERED BRIDGE

circa

1850

This bridge is located on Utica Road off of Old Frederick Road over Fishing Creek. The bridge originally spanned the nearby Monocacy River but was washed away during a storm in 1889. Local citizens gathered the remains and reconstructed the 101-foot long Burr arch truss bridge at its present location crossing Fishing Creek.

Wineries ORCHARDS &

Discover our wine trail that features three unique vineyards! Enjoy their award-winning wines, hospitality, and scenic views.

CATOCTIN BREEZE VINEYARD

Bike the il bridge tra

15010 Roddy Road catoctinbreeze.com Catoctin Breeze Vineyard invites you to spend your day and relax while enjoying hand-crafted wines and breathtaking views, all in a setting that intentionally offers a quaint and intimate experience year-round!

From summer until late autumn, you can expect to find regular food truck service on the weekends as well as live music. During colder months, you can reserve fire-pits for two-hour time slots to keep your focus on the wine, and not the fact that you did not bring a blanket (no groups larger than six)! The warmly appointed tasting room is a cozy getaway year-round as well, equipped with a fireplace for when the weather takes a turn for the frigid!

Seating is first-come, first-serve.

OPEN DAILY

MAY - NOVEMBER

10 am - 6 pm

(Sundays until 5pm)

14343 Stottlemyer Road Smithsburg, MD 21783 240-734-2021

Fresh Produce Beef & Hay 14

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the w o l l o F ail cork tr

Located at the base of the Catoctin Mountains, you will have a unique opportunity to spend your day underneath the string lights gazing at nature’s bounty as the clouds float across the trees at the top of the ridgeline. All with a glass of award-winning wine in your hand.

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Wineries

Wineries

LINKS BRIDGE VINEYARDS

SPRINGFIELD MANOR

8830 Old Links Bridge Road linksbridgevineyards.com

11836 Auburn Road springfieldmanor.com

At Links Bridge Vineyards, their goal is to combine meticulous viticulture and skillful winemaking to create the best wines that can be made from grapes grown here on their farm in Thurmont. Links Bridge Vineyards hope is that with a little luck, the wines we produce will always be good, often very good, and sometimes even great. Links Bridge Vineyards is tucked away on the right bank of the Monocacy River, and just 20 minutes north of historic downtown Frederick, Maryland and 10 minutes from Main Street Thurmont.

Maryland’s Only Winery, Distillery & Brewery

Wine Tastings Links Bridge Vineyards would like you to try the wines on their tasting menu in a friendly, “sit down and compare them to one another” way. Links Bridge Vineyards are happy to talk about the wines you’re tasting and how they were grown and made.

For outdoor seating, no reservation is needed for parties of six or fewer. For larger parties, or if you prefer indoor seating, call in advance to check availability or make a reservation.

The Venue The renovated barn offers a hip and historic vibe.

Outdoor patio seating, indoor tasting bars, and event space host live music and popular events. A small plate food menu is always available.

The Winery Ten award winning varietals and blends are produced on-site. Tastings, glass and bottle sales, as well as Sangria and seasonal frozen Sangria are available for purchase.

The Distillery Licensed in 2011 - Farm to Bottle - Producing Maryland’s Award-Winning Fine Spirits. Rye Whiskey, Bourbon, Rum, Vodka, Grappa, Brandy and World Class Lavender Gin. Tours, tastings, cocktail samples and sales!

The Brewery 11 craft beers on tap and produced right on the farm.

Our craft beers include IPA’s, Ales, Porters, Sours and Seasonal Specials. The 7BBL Brewhaus, the finest ingredients and craft inspirations, produce praise worthy brews.

Fun Fact:

Thurmont is kn own as “Gateway to th e Mountains” and is also po ised in the ce nter of the Catoctin AVA (American Vineyard Are a), one of only three regions in Maryland designated fo r the growth of wine grapes .

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Orchards

Did you know that we consider Thurmont as the capital to home-grown goodness in the state of Maryland?

CATOCTIN MOUNTAIN ORCHARD 15036 North Franklinville Road catoctinmountainorchard.com Farm Market Fruits & Vegetables Pick-Your-Own Flowers & Plants Bakery

Since 1961, the Black family has been a proud steward of the gentle, rolling, fertile land of the Catoctin Mountains. They continuously deliver high quality, safe, and nutritious food products.

OPEN 9-5 DAILY / MAY 1 - JAN. 1

CHESTNUT HILL FARM & MARKET 14343 Stottlemyer Road facebook.com/CHFMarketLLC Farm Market Fruits & Vegetables Meats & Baked Items

A 6th generation family farm that produces fresh market vegetables, meats and bakery items.

Catoctin Mountain Orchard grows and sells high quality fruits, berries & vegetables in season.

Fresh baked pies, jams & preserves, apple cider and apple cider donuts.

PRYOR’S ORCHARD 13841B Pryor Road pryorsorchards.com Farm Market Fruits & Vegetables Pick-Your-Own

3 generation family operation since 1905.

The market still exists in the original barn built in 1940.

SCENIC VIEW ORCHARD 16225 Sabillasville Road scenicvieworchards.com Farm Market Fruits & Vegetables Baked Items

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Scenic View Orchards began their operation in the mid 1800’s. The farm has remained family owned and operated for the past seven generations.

15036 North Franklinville Road Thurmont, Maryland 301-271-2737 catoctinmountainorchard.com Getaway to the

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MAP OF THURMONT

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Meet me on Main Thurmont is one of the State of Maryland’s thirty-three prestigious designated Main Street Communities, and is also a Nationally Accredited Main Street under the National Trust for Historic Preservation. After a few years of an application process spearheaded by volunteers and a collaboration with town government, Thurmont earned the honor of a designated “Maryland Main Street Community” in 2005. The application process at that time included recognizing the need for historic preservation for the buildings in the Main Street area, planning and launching several success events, and an avenue for economic development by working with property owners to fill empty store fronts with services and retail.

Thurmont Main Street is unique because it is not only filled with great businesses, but is also an entrance to the Thurmont Trolley Trail that will take you to the Thurmont Regional Library and points beyond while enjoying nature and wildlife along the trail. Located across the street from the Trolley Trail you will find one of Frederick County’s largest public art displays, “Murals on Main”. These murals depict many of the attractions, events, and natural resources found in Thurmont.

The Main Street area has a very active façade grant program that assists commercial property owners for expenses to maintain the beauty of these historic buildings. Over the last several years Main Street has been renovated with a complete streetscape project along with new lamp posts that adorn the designated Main Street Area. We strive to keep our Main Street area aesthetically pleasing for all who visit, live, or work in Thurmont.

We hope you enjoy a walk along our charming Main Street and enjoy a bite of local cuisine along the way. Main Street is the heart of Thurmont, and every community no matter where you live!

Art Main on

Follow the color trail MAIN STREET CENTER 11 Water Street thurmontmainstreet.com At the Main Street Center you will find fifteen talented local artists and artisans along with locally made products.

The Center is situated in a historic building dating back to 1885. The building served as a Moravian Church, followed by a feed store with a dairy operation in the basement, and later in time, the building served as the Thurmont Public Library.

MURALS ON MAIN STREET East Main Street thurmontmainstreet.com/attractions Murals on Main represent a community project for the Thurmont Lions Club Annual “Make a Difference Day” that began in 2013. The project began with just a few murals on an empty building that once served as the sub-station for the Thurmont Trolley Car transportation system. The vision for additional murals kept growing, and in 2020 the building was completed with additional murals by local artist “Yemi”. These iconic murals depict Thurmont days gone by as well as modern day Thurmont and all the beauty, culture, and natural resources Thurmont has to offer.

This origination of the Thurmont Lions Club project quickly became a collaboration with the Town of Thurmont, the State of Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development, and the Maryland State Arts Council along with many partners and private donors for this awe-inspiring public art display.

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Events ATTRACTIONS

Art Main on

te

L

&

may 20 5-8pm

Stroll

ART & WINE STROLL thurmontmainstreet.com Spend an evening strolling Main Street and meeting sept. 9 5-8pm local artists, sampling wine from local vineyards, and enjoying musical entertainment throughout the evening. Check our website for upcoming dates.

Thurmont is home to a variety of great community events and attractions all year long!

PLEIN AIR

Carnivals THURMONT ANNUAL

thurmontmainstreet.com Join us every fall as we take the easels outside for a friendly competition with artists to paint some of Thurmont’s most iconic scenery!

Check our website for upcoming dates.

Gallery & Art Education: The Barnstone Method

Featuring..

"Walkabout Wednesdays" 2nd and 4th Wed. 9 - 11 AM Different Location Each Outing

202 A East Main Street Thurmont, MD 21788 301.788.6241 Gallery Open by Appointment Art Education Available Online

BarnstoneStudios.com

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Thurmont Ambulance Company Every Year the Week of Memorial Day Thurmont Event Complex, 13716 Strafford Drive For information visit thurmonteventcomplex.com

We have a trail for everyone

Internationally-acclaimed Myron Barnstone’s

Enjoy a morning of photography sharing tips, perspective, and being outdoors !

FREE! Sign up: Missy Grimes @Mindfulfocusphotography Mindfulfocusphotography@gmail.com

Fun for the whole family!

Guardian Hose Company Every Year in June Thurmont Carnival Grounds, 123 East Main Street For dates and information visit guardianhose.org

CATOCTIN COLORFEST Held the second full weekend, every October colorfest.org thurmontmainstreet.com

Not just an event, but an experience!

Catoctin Colorfest was established in 1963 in Thurmont Community Park and still remains the heart of the festival. Colorfest has evolved into one of the largest outdoor craft shows on the east coast showcasing amazing crafts, art, jewelry, clothing, and a variety of delicious food.

You will find all those treasures and goodies spread-out through the town and located at the American Legion grounds, the Guardian Hose Co. Carnival Grounds, Thurmont Community Park, and Criswell Chevrolet. Come and see why over 100,000 people flock to Colorfest the second full weekend every October.

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Events Thurmont Main Street

FARMERS MARKET Held every Saturday, June - September Community Park We’ve been bringing local freshness to Main Street since 2003.

Whether you are camping, cycling, hiking, or just passing through on your travels, you will not want to miss our Main Street Farmers Market! Here you will find a large variety of fresh produce, fruit, locally grown beef, eggs, cheese, butter, home baked goods, sauces, rubs, jelly, and much more.

The market is full of appetizing treats and food that tastes like it should ... FRESH! Since it is located in the Community Park at 21 Frederick Road, you can take a relaxing walk around our paved fitness trail after visiting all of our great vendors. The market is held every Saturday from 9am - Noon, June through September. (Dogs welcome, but must be leashed.)

CATOCTIN FURNACE 12610 Catoctin Furnace Road catoctinfurnace.org Museum of the Ironworker, African American Cemetery Interpretive Trail, Collier’s Log House, Forgeman’s House, Carty-Miller House, Isabella Iron Furnace: Catoctin Furnace illustrates the lifeways of hard-working laborers who produced the iron ore and finished products used throughout the late eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. Explore early 19th century historic buildings, see forensic facial reconstructions of enslaved workers, marvel at beautiful Catoctin Furnace cast iron stoves, and learn about the African American and European American families who lived in the village and worked at the furnace and related industries. Trail and ruins open daily, dawn to dusk. Museum open every weekend or by appointment. Guided tours available. Seasonal events with free children’s activities. 240-288-7396.

LAVENDER FESTIVAL

CATOCTIN WILDLIFE PRESERVE

Springfield Manor 11836 Auburn Road springfieldmanor.com/lavender-festival

13019 Catoctin Furnace Road catoctinwildlifepreserve.com

Visit Maryland’s Largest Lavender Field!

2600 plants of both French and English varieties produce a gardener’s masterpiece. Peak bloom is mid-June and a second bloom occurs in September. Blossoms are harvested at peak bloom to produce the international award-winning double gold Lavender Gin & Vodka. Visit the festival to walk the fields, capture amazing photos, enjoy educational demos and seminars, shop local vendors, and sample specialty foods! Advance tickets are required as event sells out.

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Amazing experiences and 1,000 exciting new exotic animal friends await you in this 50-acre park! Catoctin Wildlife Preserve welcomes you with natural ponds, lush landscaping, and wandering Ambass-zoo-dors, eager to indulge inquisitive guests. Get curious about everything from bears to boas, macaws to monkeys, panthers to pythons, and alligators to zebra. Don’t forget to climb aboard the narrated, ride-through Safari Truck!

Your one-hour adventure ride showcases exotic animals from six continents as you rumble through twenty-five wooded acres and four different paddocks. They’re all there for the fun, feeding and photographing!

Safari tickets are an additional fee.

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Attractions MAGNOLIA MEADOW FARMS 13001 Creagerstown Road

Coming Fall 2022

Come spend a day on a beautiful 247-acre, familyowned farm with something for everyone. Magnolia Meadow Farms is home to Maryland’s largest corn maze and over 20 fun activities for all ages. Pick-your-own sunflowers, cut flowers, and pumpkins from a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. You will also find delicious hot and cold food to satisfy your cravings. Don’t forget to stop at the Farm Market to shop for local products. A great place for birthday parties, family occasions, and company outings.

MAPLE RUN GOLF CLUB 13610 Moser Road maplerungolf.com This course features an 18-hole 72 par golf course.

The course shifts from open layouts with sloped greens to tighter wooded fairways with larger greens that offer a fun and diverse challenge. Maple Run Golf offers a variety of amenities for golfers at every level.

Come enjoy one of the best golfing experiences Maryland has to offer at Maple Run.

THURMONT SKATEPARK 800 East Main Street The Thurmont Skatepark, located in East End Park, meets the definition of a true community project. The Thurmont Skatepark Committee, a group of local students and young adults partnered with the Town of Thurmont to design, fund, and build the 4,000 square foot park. Thanks to generous community donations, along with a Maryland Program Open Space grant, the skatepark opened in November 2021, a mere 8 months after the project was first presented to the town’s elected officials. The parks offers activities and obstacles for all skaters, beginners to advanced.

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Attractions THURMONT HISTORICAL SOCIETY 11 North Church Street thurmonthistoricalsociety.org The Thurmont Historical Society promotes an interest in the history of Thurmont. We collect and display photographs, artifacts, and documents that tell stories about the town’s past. Our principal asset is a historic house-museum called the Creeger House at 11 North Church Street.

The museum features a research library filled with books on genealogy, Western Maryland, the Civil War, and other aspects of Thurmont history.

Public hours are most Sundays between 11am and 3pm, but also by appointment; email to friends@thurmonthistoricalsociety.org.

THURMONT REGIONAL LIBRARY 76 East Moser Road fcpl.org 301.600.7200 Hike the Thurmont Trolley Trail to the Library Loop, and find yourself at Thurmont Regional Library. This library is often named the most beautiful library in Maryland. Discover a family Story Path along the Nature Trail adjacent to the library—you may just spot an owl or deer napping in the woods. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy on the covered deck, check your email on one of the computers or free public Wi-Fi, or bask in the lovely architecture while reading the latest bestseller— you’re always welcome at the library! For more information, visit www.fcpl.org.

Wedding DESTINATION These wedding venues will not only capture all of the beauty in your wedding photos, but they will also deliver a seamless experience for your perfect day.

Thurmont has become a popular wedding destination over the years not only because of the picturesque surroundings, but also because of the elegant and rustic venues available to hold the perfect reception and ceremony.

MATHWIG WEDDING BARN 13702 Graceham Road

Coming Summer 2 022

This stunning 108-acre estate located in Frederick County is a picturesque location for weddings and private events. The rustic, country barn has been carefully restored with wood floors, beaming, and soft light and can comfortably fit 150 guests.

The beautiful grounds are nestled at the base of the Catoctin Mountains and surrounded by farmland, making it the perfect backdrop for memorable photos that will last a lifetime.

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Wedding DESTINATION

Wedding DESTINATION

MOUNTAIN MEMORIES at ThorpeWood

THURMONT EVENT COMPLEX

12805-A Mink Farm Road mountainmemoriestw.com

13716 Strafford Drive thurmonteventcomplex.com

The ThorpeWood lodge and grounds are located 1500 feet up in the Catoctin Mountains and is richly endowed with 165 acres, nestled within more than 18,000 acres of public parks and private preserves.

A venue that is one of Frederick County’s largest and newest wedding destinations. The Thurmont Event Complex accommodates the smallest of ceremonies to largest of ceremonies and receptions.

This spacious wedding ballroom can accommodate up to 850 guests. Gorgeous chandeliers hang to create a romantic ambience for your special day along with many options for seating and dancing.

All events at ThorpeWood are booked and managed by Mountain Memories at ThorpeWood, LLC, owned by Julie Castleman and Lexi Hartner. Both Julie and Lexi enjoy shepherding brides and grooms, making arrangements for corporate groups and assisting with details of many other types of events held at ThorpeWood. Together they have successfully guided more than 800 couples through one of the most important moments in their lives—making their dreams a reality at ThorpeWood.

Thurmont Lions Club

Serving our community for over 90 years

SPRINGFIELD MANOR 11836 Auburn Road springfieldmanor.com A 100 acre country estate setting that will be remembered by you and your guests for years.

Spacious and picturesque bridal lounge, cigar lounge and overnight suites are perfect to capture all the pre-wedding moments. An experienced caterer designs menus to suit your palate and budget and a professional staff ensures a flawless event. The sophisticated barn and romantic rustic barn offer large dance floors, climate control, and flow onto large outdoor terraces with gorgeous mountain views. Indoor event seating for 300 guests. Voted Frederick’s best !

THURMONT EVENT COMPLEX 13716 Strafford Drive • Thurmont, Maryland

FRIDAY NIGHT

SEE OUR FULL EVENT SCHEDULE

ThurmontEventComplex.com

JOIN THE CLUB! Make a difference! for more information please visit

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Dining LODGING

g n i n n i Award W ooked Slow-C

&

t

iske r B & BQ

B

smoked

on site

Locally Owned Bollinger’s Family Restaurant 210 N. Church Street • 301.271.3500

H LARGE VARIETY OF SAUCED & FLAVORED WINGS H HOMEMADE BBQ SAUCES H BEER, WINE & LIQUOR

210 North Church Street 301.271.3500 bollingersrestaurant.com Celebrating over 60 years of serving fresh, homemade meals

Serving

BREAKFAST • LUNCH • DINNER

Fratelli’s 140 Frederick Road • 301.271.0272

Furnace Grill & Crabhouse 12841 Catoctin Furnace Road • 240.288.8942

Los Amigos 205 Frederick Road • 301.271.8888

Mountain Gate Family Restaurant 133 Frederick Road • 301.271.4373

New Win Hing 211 Tippin Drive • 301.271.3688

Peking Palace 224 N. Church Street, Ste. D • 301.271.7280

Rocky’s Pizza 209 Tippin Drive • 301.271.7181

Simply Asia 120 Frederick Road • 301.271.2857

The Farmhouse Exchange 14802 North Franklinville Road • 301-271-2322

Thurmont Bar & Grill 10 E. Main Street • 301.271.7422

Thurmont Kountry Kitchen 17 Water Street • 301.271.4071

Chains Burger King 427 N. Church Street • 301.271.1041

Dunkin’ Donuts 130 Frederick Road • 240.288.8746

McDonalds 200 Frederick Road • 301.271.3003

Roy Rogers 203 Frederick Road • 301.271.3252

Subway 224 N. Church Street, Ste. K • 301.271.4239

Taco Bell / KFC 1 Thurmont Boulevard • 301.271.5067 34

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Dining & LODGING OLE MINK FARM Recreation Resort 12086 Mink Farm Road oleminkfarm.com In the Catoctin Mountains, Ole Mink Farm Recreation Resort offers Luxury Log Cabins, Camping Cabins and Seasonal Campsites. Minutes from 2 local State/National Parks, skiing, antique and outlet shopping as well as Thurmont Main Street, Gettysburg and Frederick. Perfect for a day trip to Washington DC or Baltimore!

Camping Cabins

Luxury Log Cabins feature fireplaces, fully equipped kitchens, private bathrooms/bedrooms - all the comforts of home! Seasonal Campsites offer vacation getaways with on-site winter storage. Amenities include swimming pool, hiking trails, game room, fishing pond, pet playground, bathhouse, gift shop and family-fun summer weekend activities. Make lasting memories, one campfire at a time!

THE INN at Springfield Manor 11836 Auburn Road springfieldmanor.com The Inn at Springfield Manor is the perfect romantic getaway, weekend excursion, or outdoor adventure. Enjoy the intimate charm and awesome grandeur of a large country estate.

Springfield Manor offers guests eight sumptuous suites in a country estate setting. Wander in the lavender field or the vineyard, explore the mountains and trails, enjoy star gazing by a romantic fire pit. Just minutes from Main Street Thurmont, state and a national park, hiking, and cycling.

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Make lasting memories one campfire at a time...

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Voted Frederick’s Best Wedding Venue Voted Frederick’s Best Wedding Venue Voted Frederick’s Best Wedding Venue Voted Frederick’s Best Wedding Venue

VISIT MARYLAND’S ONLY

WINERY, DISTILLERY & BREWERY Live Music - Food - Special Events - Accommodations Weddings & Event Venue for 300 Seated Guests

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Four Generations Of A Local Family Farm Proudly Serving our community since 1939

Fresh & Smoked Turkey Fresh & Smoked Chicken Cheese • Lunch Meat Snack Stix (Salads, Soups, Pot-Pie, BBQ and Prepared Foods much more!)

Visit our website for Weekly Specials & Pre-Order Today!

301.271.2728 • www.hillsideturkey.com

30 Elm St., Thurmont, MD 21788

Store Hours: Thu 8am-7pm, Fri 8am-3pm, and Sat 8am-12pm We accept Visa, Mastercard and Cash for payment.

Stop By and See For Yourself

Get Perky, Eat More Turkey