Charcoal Exhibit Trail

Collier huts and charcoal hearths once dotted the mountainside.

NPS Photo/John Zuke

Towards the end of the 18th century and throughout the 19th century, the mountain was lit up by the fires of charcoal hearths. A thriving charcoal industry once existed on the mountain with colliers all across the mountainside tending to charcoal hearths in order to provide fuel for the iron furnace at the base of the mountain. With life-size exhibits and wayside panels, the Charcoal Exhibit Trail provides a glimpse into the lives of those who worked in the charcoal industry.

Details

Duration

20-30 Minutes

0.5 miles

Activity

Self-Guided Tours - Walking

This one-half mile loop trail will take you along several exhibits and displays that will tell the story of the once thriving charcoal making industry on the mountain. 

Pets Allowed

Yes

If you hike with your pet in Catoctin Mountain Park, it must be on a leash 6 feet or less. This is to protect you, your dog and the wildlife and plants in the park. To be safe, you need to walk, not run, because there are tree roots and rocks on the trails and someone could get hurt if he/she goes too quickly.

Activity Fee

No

Admission to the park is FREE, but for those who qualify, Senior Passes, Military Passes, Access Passes, and Every Kid in a Park passes are available at the visitor center.

Location

Charcoal Exhibit Trail

The trail is readily accessible from the Thurmont Vista Parking Area. The Charcoal Exhibit Trail can also be accessed from the nearby Thurmont Vista Trail (Blazed Pink/Purple Rectangle) or from the Hog Rock Loop Trail (Blazed Yellow Rectangle.)

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

The Thurmont Vista Parking Lot is closed during the winter. 

Time of Day

Day

The park is open daily from dawn until dusk.

Accessibility Information

The charcoal trail is not wheelchair accessible.