Explore the Serenity of Cat Rock & Bobs Hill Natural Area
Discover the captivating beauty of Cat Rock & Bobs Hill Natural Area, a nature preserve in Maryland perfect for hiking, wildlife watching, and outdoor adventure.
Nestled in the picturesque Catoctin Mountains, Cat Rock & Bobs Hill Natural Area offers a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. This tranquil preserve invites tourists to explore its lush landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and scenic trails, making it an ideal spot for hiking, picnicking, and immersing oneself in the beauty of Maryland's natural wonders.
A brief summary to Cat Rock & Bobs Hill Natural Area
- Catoctin Hollow Rd, Thurmont, Maryland, 21788, US
- +1301-271-7574
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best wildlife sightings and peaceful hiking conditions.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities within the preserve.
- Wear sturdy footwear as some trails can be steep and rocky.
- Check the weather before your visit, as trails can become slippery after rain.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning views along the trails.
Getting There
-
Car
From any location within Cunningham Falls State Park, head towards Catoctin Hollow Road. If you are near the visitor center, take the main park road and follow the signs towards the Catoctin Hollow Road exit. Drive on Catoctin Hollow Road for approximately 2 miles. Look for the entrance to Cat Rock & Bobs Hill Natural Area on your right. There is no specific parking lot, but you can park along the roadside where it's safe to do so.
-
Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, the closest major public transit option is the Frederick County Transit. You will need to take a bus to Thurmont. From the Thurmont bus station, you can either take a taxi or rideshare service to Catoctin Hollow Road. Inform the driver to drop you off at the Cat Rock & Bobs Hill Natural Area. Please note that public transportation may have limited schedules, so check the latest timetables.
-
Hiking
If you are already hiking in Cunningham Falls State Park, you can access Cat Rock by taking the Cat Rock Trail. Start from the park's main trails, and follow the Cat Rock Trail signs. This trail will lead you directly to Cat Rock & Bobs Hill Natural Area. Be prepared for a moderate hike, and ensure you have adequate footwear and water for the journey.
Discover more about Cat Rock & Bobs Hill Natural Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cunningham FALLS STATE Park Office
2.9 km
Explore the natural beauty of Cunningham Falls State Park with breathtaking trails, stunning waterfalls, and abundant wildlife in Maryland's Catoctin Mountains.
Cunningham Fall State Park Handicap Parking
3.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Cunningham Falls State Park, a tranquil oasis in Maryland perfect for hiking, picnicking, and experiencing nature's splendor.
Camp Misty Mount Historic District
4.4 km
Experience the historical charm and natural beauty of Camp Misty Mount Historic District, a captivating landmark in Maryland's scenic Catoctin Mountain Park.
Little Owens Lookout
8.8 km
Explore Little Owens Lookout: A breathtaking historical landmark in Thurmont, MD, perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Mason Dixon Line
13.3 km
Discover the Mason-Dixon Line, a historic landmark showcasing America's rich past with stunning views and stories waiting to be explored.
Emmitsburg Historic District
15.9 km
Explore Emmitsburg Historic District, a charming area filled with rich history, stunning architecture, and picturesque streets in Maryland.
South Mountain State Battlefield
18.1 km
Explore the historical significance and natural beauty of South Mountain State Battlefield, a must-visit destination for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Washington Monument
18.1 km
Discover the Washington Monument in Boonsboro, Maryland—a historical landmark offering stunning views and access to the Appalachian Trail's natural beauty.
Washington Monument State Park
18.2 km
Discover the charm of Washington Monument State Park, a stunning blend of history and nature in the heart of Maryland's hills.
Antietam Hall
19.2 km
Explore Antietam Hall, a historical landmark in Hagerstown, MD, and uncover the stories that shaped America’s history.
The Beatty-Cramer House
19.2 km
Discover the historic Beatty-Cramer House in Frederick, MD, where architecture meets timeless elegance in a stunning setting.
Rose Hill Manor Park & Museums
19.4 km
Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Frederick at Rose Hill Manor Park & Museums, a fun-filled destination for families and history lovers alike.
Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park Headquarters Building
19.4 km
Discover the rich history and natural beauty of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park Headquarters in Hagerstown, Maryland.
Cool Hollow House
20.0 km
Explore Cool Hollow House in Hagerstown, a stunning historical landmark showcasing Maryland's rich heritage and architectural beauty.
Schifferstadt Architectural Museum
20.4 km
Explore the historical richness and architectural beauty of the Schifferstadt Architectural Museum in Frederick, Maryland, where history comes alive.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cunningham Falls State Park
1.4 km
Explore the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures at Cunningham Falls State Park, a premier state park in Maryland featuring waterfalls, hiking trails, and wildlife.
Cunningham Falls State Park - William Houck Area
1.6 km
Explore the stunning Cunningham Falls State Park in Maryland, where waterfalls, hiking trails, and serene lakes await your discovery.
Camping Office - Cunningham Falls State Park
2.0 km
Explore the natural beauty of Cunningham Falls State Park in Maryland, a perfect getaway for hiking, camping, and enjoying stunning waterfalls.
Cunningham Falls lake beach
2.5 km
Discover the beauty of Cunningham Falls Lake Beach, a perfect natural retreat for swimming, picnicking, and hiking in Maryland's stunning landscape.
Manor Area - Cunningham Falls State Park
2.9 km
Explore the beauty of Cunningham Falls State Park in Maryland, featuring stunning waterfalls, diverse trails, and serene camping experiences for nature lovers.
Cunningham Falls State Park - Manor Area Playground
3.0 km
Explore the beauty of nature at Cunningham Falls State Park, where adventure and family fun await in Maryland's stunning landscape.
Manor Area Visitor Center
3.0 km
Discover the natural beauty and rich history of the Catoctin Mountains at the Manor Area Visitor Center, your gateway to outdoor adventures.
Catoctin Wildlife Preserve
3.0 km
Discover exotic animals and immerse yourself in wildlife conservation at Catoctin Wildlife Preserve in Thurmont, Maryland.
Cunningham Falls
3.0 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Cunningham Falls, Maryland's largest waterfall, surrounded by nature trails and scenic landscapes.
Catoctin Mountain Park Visitor Center
3.4 km
Discover the natural beauty and rich history of Catoctin Mountain Park at the Visitor Center, your gateway to adventure in Maryland's great outdoors.
Catoctin Furnace
3.5 km
Explore the historical Catoctin Furnace in Thurmont, MD, a fascinating glimpse into America's industrial past amidst beautiful natural landscapes.
Chimney Rock
3.6 km
Explore Chimney Rock in Thurmont, MD—a scenic gem in Catoctin Mountain Park, offering stunning views and hiking trails for all levels.
Catoctin Furnace Historical Society, Inc.
3.7 km
Explore the fascinating history of iron production at Catoctin Furnace Historical Society, a hidden gem in Maryland's scenic landscapes.
Catoctin Mountain Park
4.2 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and rich wildlife of Catoctin Mountain Park in Maryland, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Thurmont Community Park
4.6 km
Discover Thurmont Community Park, a serene escape in Maryland, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking to embrace nature's beauty.
Essential places to dine
Parking Spot At Cunningham Falls
2.4 km
Explore stunning waterfalls and scenic trails at Cunningham Falls - a natural paradise in Maryland perfect for outdoor adventures.
The Furnace Grill and Crab House
3.2 km
Discover delicious seafood and grilled favorites at The Furnace Grill and Crab House in Thurmont - A must-visit for every foodie!
Rocky's Pizza
3.7 km
Savor authentic Italian flavors at Rocky's Pizza in Thurmont - where every bite feels like home.
Roy Rogers
3.7 km
Discover classic American flavors at Roy Rogers in Thurmont - where hearty meals meet warm hospitality.
McDonald's
3.8 km
Discover McDonald's in Thurmont: A family-friendly fast food destination offering delicious meals anytime.
Mountain Gate Family Restaurant
4.0 km
Experience the charm of family dining at Mountain Gate Family Restaurant in Thurmont - where hearty meals meet warm hospitality.
Simply Asia
4.1 km
Discover the rich flavors of Asian cuisine at Simply Asia in Thurmont, MD - where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
Thurmont Kountry Kitchen
4.7 km
Thurmont Kountry Kitchen: A family-friendly haven for American cuisine lovers in the heart of Maryland.
Subway
5.1 km
Discover deliciously fresh sandwiches at Subway in Thurmont - perfect for tourists seeking quick and healthy meals on their adventures.
Command Post Pub
15.2 km
Experience local charm at Command Post Pub in Emmitsburg: great drinks, warm atmosphere & friendly faces await you.
Distilled
18.4 km
Experience Frederick's culinary scene at Distilled, where locally sourced ingredients meet innovative dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Hummus Mediterranean Grill
18.5 km
Experience authentic Lebanese cuisine at Hummus Mediterranean Grill in Hagerstown – where every dish celebrates fresh flavors and tradition.
Schula's Grill & Crab House
18.5 km
Discover Hagerstown's premier seafood destination at Schula's Grill & Crab House - where fresh flavors meet great ambiance.
Madrones
18.5 km
Experience the flavors of America at Madrones in Frederick - where every meal is a celebration of taste and hospitality.
Old South Mountain Inn
19.1 km
Experience historic charm and delectable American cuisine at Old South Mountain Inn in scenic Boonsboro, Maryland.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Camp Store - Cunningham Falls State Park
2.4 km
Discover the Camp Store at Cunningham Falls State Park, your one-stop shop for outdoor essentials and local flavors amidst Maryland's natural beauty.
Cunningham Falls Camp Store
2.4 km
Discover the beauty of nature at Cunningham Falls Camp Store, a top campground in Maryland featuring breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Camp Misty Mount
4.3 km
Experience the beauty of nature at Camp Misty Mount, a historic campground in Maryland offering a perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts and families.
Hog Rock Parking Area
4.7 km
Explore the beautiful trails of Maryland from Hog Rock Parking Area, your gateway to adventure and tranquility in nature.
Dirt Cheap
7.3 km
Explore Dirt Cheap in Thurmont, MD for unbeatable deals on everything from trendy apparel to home essentials, perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
Catoctin Mountain Orchard
7.5 km
Discover the charm of Catoctin Mountain Orchard, where fresh produce, delicious baked goods, and beautiful scenery come together for an unforgettable experience.
Emmitsburg Antique Mall
15.9 km
Explore Emmitsburg Antique Mall, a treasure trove of vintage finds and timeless collectibles in the heart of Maryland.
The Little Flower
16.6 km
Discover the beauty of nature at The Little Flower in Emmitsburg, where stunning floral arrangements meet exceptional service.
Beaver Creek Antique Market
17.6 km
Explore the enchanting Beaver Creek Antique Market for unique vintage treasures and collectibles in Hagerstown, Maryland.
A&J Antiques
17.6 km
Explore A&J Antiques in Hagerstown, MD, for a treasure trove of vintage collectibles and unique decor items that tell a story.
Antique Crossroads
17.7 km
Explore Antique Crossroads in Hagerstown, MD, a treasure trove of vintage finds and unique antiques that cater to collectors and casual shoppers alike.
The Shops at Monocacy
18.7 km
Discover a shopping haven at The Shops at Monocacy in Frederick, MD, featuring diverse stores, delicious dining, and vibrant events for all.
At Home
18.8 km
Explore At Home in Frederick, Maryland, for an extensive selection of unique home goods, furniture, and decor to elevate your living spaces.
Camillions
18.8 km
Explore Camillions in Frederick, MD for unique gifts, handmade jewelry, and fashionable accessories in a charming boutique setting.
Boonsboro Antiques
19.5 km
Explore the charm of vintage collectibles and unique antiques at Boonsboro Antiques, a treasure trove in Maryland's scenic town.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Sauced Savage BBQ
3.4 km
Experience mouthwatering slow-smoked meats and unique sauces at The Sauced Savage BBQ in Thurmont, MD - a barbecue lover's paradise.
Los Amigos Mexican Restaurant
3.6 km
Discover the vibrant taste of Mexico at Los Amigos Mexican Restaurant in Thurmont, where authentic flavors meet a warm atmosphere.
10Tavern
4.8 km
Savor the flavors of America at 10Tavern, a cozy restaurant in Thurmont, MD, known for its inviting atmosphere and delicious dishes.
Bollinger's Restaurant and Uncle Dirtys Brew Works
5.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Bollinger's Restaurant and Uncle Dirty's Brew Works in Thurmont, where hearty meals meet exceptional craft beers.
The Farmhouse Exchange
6.5 km
Experience the heart of Thurmont at The Farmhouse Exchange, where fresh bakery delights meet hearty deli favorites in a welcoming atmosphere.
Main Street Cafe
6.8 km
Discover the warm ambiance and authentic flavors of Ireland at Main Street Cafe, a delightful Irish pub in Thurmont, Maryland.
Wolfe's Den
11.0 km
Discover Wolfe's Den: A lively bar in Smithsburg, MD, offering great drinks, entertainment, and a taste of local culture.
Cactus Flats
11.5 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Cactus Flats, a top grill and bar in Frederick, Maryland, where every meal is a delightful experience.
Top Secret Tap Room
11.7 km
Experience the best of local craft brews and a cozy atmosphere at Top Secret Tap Room in Fort Ritchie, Maryland.
Chocolate Park Tavern
12.3 km
Experience the cozy charm of Chocolate Park Tavern in Highfield-Cascade, Maryland, where drinks and community come together.
Unique Bar & Grill
13.4 km
Discover Unique Bar & Grill in Blue Ridge Summit, where great food meets live music in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
The Lodge
14.4 km
Discover the inviting atmosphere of The Lodge in Boonsboro, Maryland, where great drinks and friendly vibes come together for an unforgettable experience.
The Lodge Show + Dance Club & Summer Patio
14.4 km
Experience an unforgettable night at The Lodge Show + Dance Club in Boonsboro, MD, where vibrant dance floors meet a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Schroyer's Tavern at Maryland National Golf Club
15.1 km
Discover Schroyer's Tavern at Maryland National Golf Club, where delicious American cuisine meets stunning golf course views for an unforgettable dining experience.
Monterey Pass Pub & Eatery
15.6 km
Discover Monterey Pass Pub & Eatery: A Cozy American Bar & Grill in Waynesboro, Offering Delicious Steaks and Craft Beers.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Havana Hagerstown
21.0 km
Unleash your inner dancer at Havana Hagerstown, where vibrant nightlife and electrifying music create unforgettable memories.
Lifestyle Lounging
22.3 km
Discover Hagerstown's vibrant nightlife at Lifestyle Lounging, the ultimate destination for music, dancing, and unforgettable moments.
One Night Entertainment
24.0 km
Experience the electrifying nightlife at One Night Entertainment in Frederick, Maryland, where top DJs spin unforgettable tracks for every occasion.
Monkey Lala
25.1 km
Discover the delicious offerings at Monkey Lala, Frederick's favorite grill, where mouthwatering dishes meet an inviting atmosphere.
Below Deck Bar & Grill LLC
25.1 km
Experience the local flavor at Below Deck Bar & Grill, where great food and a relaxed atmosphere await in Frederick, MD.
MLS Entertainments
25.3 km
Discover the nightlife at MLS Entertainments in Frederick, where music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences await every visitor.
Reliance Mine Saloon
30.8 km
Discover the unique blend of history and hospitality at Reliance Mine Saloon, a cozy bar and cocktail destination in Gettysburg, PA.
Fourscore Beer Co.
31.1 km
Discover Fourscore Beer Co., Gettysburg's top brewpub, offering unique craft beers and delicious food in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Dobbin House Tavern
31.1 km
Discover the historic Dobbin House Tavern in Gettysburg, where American cuisine meets colonial charm and rich heritage.
Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park
31.2 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich history at Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, a true gem for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
O'Rorke's Family Eatery
31.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of American and Irish flavors at O'Rorke's Family Eatery in Gettysburg, PA, where great food meets lively entertainment.
The Livery
31.4 km
Discover The Livery in Gettysburg: Where history meets delicious grill favorites in a cozy pub atmosphere.
Garryowen Irish Pub
31.7 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of Ireland at Garryowen Irish Pub in Gettysburg, where hearty meals and live music create an unforgettable experience.
Blue & Gray Bar & Grill
31.9 km
Experience the best of American comfort food at Blue & Gray Bar & Grill, a must-visit in Gettysburg for tourists seeking flavor and relaxation.
The Pub & Restaurant
31.9 km
Discover The Pub & Restaurant in Gettysburg, where delicious local cuisine meets a warm and inviting atmosphere for families and friends.
