Gateway Trail Connects Thurmont to National Park

The Town of Thurmont is partnering with the Catoctin Mountain Park on the Gateway Trail project. The Gateway Trail links the Thurmont Memorial Park, the Trolley Trail, and the Thurmont Community Park to the trailhead located at the Lewis Area on West Main Street. Until further acquisition can be obtained by the Town of Thurmont, the current Gateway Trail alignment starts at the Trolley Trail to the east and the Community Park to the south. From those two points, the alignment turns north onto South Altamont Avenue and then turns west on West Main Street, eventually linking to the Lewis Area of Catoctin Mountain Park, just west of Route 15. The trail from the Lewis Area then connects hikers to scenic Chimney Rock. Thurmont Public Works crews installed Gateway Trail signs identifying this route. This project creates a wonderful connection between the park and Thurmont. Thanks to Main Street Manager Vickie Grinder, former Catoctin Mountain Park Superintendent Mel Poole, and current Park Superintendent Rick Slade for spearheading this project.