catoctin furnace

RachelB178

A nice history lesson. There is a trail (more of a light hike) at top that takes you thru all the history of the furnace and how it operated. It goes over Route 15 as well.

johnpS4312GB

We were disappointed by the lack of information at this site. Expected a lot more but the area did have other interesting sites to make the trip worthwhile.

johngP8854KG

Walked from Cunningham Falls State Park visitors' center on the Catoctin Furnace Trail to furnace and no signage directed us to the furnace. Missed it and ended up driving around to see it after discovering where it was located. Poorly maintained trail. Little information posted at site of furnace.

350vinceb

Fun picnic for a few times, Has been recently modernized. Places to grill picnic tables, Kids will love the little nature center.

strack83

The trail to this site is perfect for families, leading through the woods, near the creek, and over the highway. Signs tell the history all the way along. This is a must do, must see.

Lowtech

The charcoal industry was an important part of the culture in the Catoctin mountains and this furnace is related to that industry. It is well maintained and attractive. An interesting side-trip for a day spent exploring the vicinity.

TiffanyS2

We loved it here, very nice place to look around and spend some time..even have a picnic! Would recommend this as part of a day trip!

2005-travel-lover

Relatively undeveloped historic site. Takes about 10 min to see it. I've been there about 4 times over the years and it has been the same most times. It is one part of a multi-stop tour that you can take of historic sites in the area.

lifeartist59

We found the self tour very interesting and enjoy the area around this park very much. It is worth a visit.

KenH286

I camp at Cunningham Falls State Park from there you can bicycle to many historic areas near by. Great get away and for me just a half hour drive.

maumaljay

Great outdoor spot - fun for children to learn about the area and they can get out in the country. Easy to get to - right off of the highway and not far from Frederick

Dave51372

A barn fields and crows is all I saw. nothing to do no where to go. You'll wanna be sedated. grass doesnt even grow in january.

vangie1

Nice place to visit. Hike over to Catoctin Park (trail head is above the parking lot - easy walk) and visit the hawk sancuatry and the playground completely made of recycled tires.

LisaC812

We stopped here on our way home from the Cunningham Falls State Park. It is not well kept. Lots of weeds and trees growing over brick buildings.

OBX717

Self guided tour of furnace. Elevated walkway at house ruins associated with furnace is blocked off, fence around top of stonework missing railing. I agree in the fall it must be pretty, but it appears the grounds are not being adequately maintained. Maybe just too early in the year. Bugs were thick when we visited on 4/14/12.