“Spirits Of The Furnace” Are Prepared To Rise Again-
Friends of Cunningham Falls and Gambrill State Parks present 3rd annual historic night hike
THURMONT — As the air turns colder and the leaves begin to change the “Spirits of the Furnace” are prepared to rise again. The Friends of Cunningham Falls and Gambrill State Parks, Inc. are pleased to announce the 3rd annual “Spirits of the Furnace” night hike will be held Friday, Oct. 15 and Saturday, Oct. 16. Visitors will be treated to a family atmosphere as they venture into the 125-year history of the Catoctin Iron Furnace. During the Ľ-mile hike, they will meet figures from the past that share their stories of factual events and local lore.
Groups will depart from the Manor Area Visitor Center to the historic Catoctin Iron Furnace beginning at 7 p.m. and leaving every 15 minutes. The last group will leave at 10 p.m. A shuttle van will return hikers to the Visitor Center. Hikes are arranged through prepaid reservation only; the park will begin taking reservations Sept. 8.
The service charges are $5 for ages 16 and over, $3 for ages 6-15, children age 5 and under are free. To make reservations, please call 301-271-7574 between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. Monday through Friday or e-mail mspurrier@dnr.state.md.us. It is strongly advised that visitors come prepared for the weather, have sturdy footwear and arrive at least 10 minutes prior to their hike departure time.
While waiting for their tours, people can visit the Scales and Tales Aviary and see the non-releasable birds of prey and reptiles native to Maryland. The Manor Visitor Center is located off of Rt. 15 just south of Thurmont. Light refreshments will be available.
The Friends of Cunningham Falls and Gambrill State Parks, Inc. is a non-profit group that provides volunteers and monetary support for park activities.