Park Quest 2019

Funnel weaver, photo by Richard SchuergerCunningham Falls State Park Quest
“Dream Weavers” A closer look at spiders, the original Web Designers

Introduction to Quest

For centuries, native americans have marveled at the beauty of spiders and the webs that they make. Several nations have stories about the power of the webs to trap dreams and ward off evil thoughts. This quest will challenge you to learn more about Maryland spiders and their webs.

Orb Weaver photo by Ranger Elena GilroyQuest Information

Your Park Quest adventure at Cunningham Falls State Park will begin at the Manor Area visitor center. Prior to arriving print out you Quest packet with your trail map and questions for your hike. Once you leave the visitor center you will journey into the world of spiders. Along the way, you will see interactive stations that will help you answer questions to find the required lock combination for your stamp. Once you have reached the end of the trail at the playground, return to the Visitor Center with the key word and open the Quest box for your stamp. Be sure to make some time to visit the playground and the Scales & Tales Aviary located next to the Visitor Center.

 

Spiderweb photo by Ranger Elena GilroyThe quest trail is approximately ¼ mile long and should take about 1 hour to complete. The terrain is varied and uneven in many places. Sturdy walking or hiking shoes are best for this hike. Park staff is available to help anyone with special needs but due to limited staffing you must call the park ahead of time to make accommodations. The quest may be completed Mon – Fri 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and weekends after Memorial Day 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Please allow yourself adequate time to complete your quests. Your park quest passport gets you into the Manor Area for no extra charge. Make sure to bring a camera or digital recorder to capture the fun memories of your day, sunscreen, insect repellant, and water. Pets on a leash are welcome to accompany you on most of your quest but they are not allowed in the buildings or the Aviary.

“Dream Weavers” Park Quest Worksheet

Come for Park Quest but Stay for the Day

We offer a shaded picnic area with lots of tables and playground equipment for your enjoyment. Many different historical and natural programs are given throughout summer including hikes to the Catoctin Furnace. You may call our park office at 301-271-7574 for details or visit our website:

https://dnr.maryland.gov/publiclands/Pages/western/cunningham.aspx

If you like to camp, we have 2 campgrounds with lots of sites to choose from.

Address

Cunningham Falls State Park Visitor Center
6709 Cunningham Falls Park Road
Thurmont, MD 21788​
301-721-7574

Directions to Cunningham Falls State Park Manor Area

 

From Frederick, MD - follow Route 15 North for approximately 13 miles. Look for signs to the Manor Area of Cunningham Falls State Park. The entrance is a left hand turn from Route 15 Northbound, directly across from the Catoctin Zoo. Once entering the park stay to the left following signs to the Visitor Center.

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