I don’t know about you, but whenever I have a free day with nothing to do, I like to combine two of my favorite things – exploring the outdoors and eating! If you’re like me, this small-town adventure in Maryland will be exactly what you’re looking for. First, we will head into Catoctin Mountain Park to hike the Cunningham Falls Nature Trail. Then, we’ll drive a few short miles to Thurmont to grab a meal at Thurmont Kountry Kitchen. Ready to hike and feast?

We’re kicking off this small-town adventure in Thurmont, Maryland, with a trip to the largest cascading waterfall in the state.
Alltrails Gary Roache
The Cunningham Falls Nature Trail is a 2.8-mile roundtrip trek that takes hikers from the visitors center to the waterfall and back.
Alltrails Patrick Honan
It takes over an hour to complete as the most popular trail in the park. The trail is open year-round, but we recommend a spring or summer visit to see all of the natural beauty up close.
AlltrailsDanielle Storemski
The falls themselves are worth the trek. This large cascade tumbles over the rocks below, visually and audibly creating the ultimate scene.
Cunningham Falls State Park, 14274 William Houck Dr, Thurmont, MD 21788, USA
Alltrails Nate Castelletti

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All this hiking probably worked up an appetite, right? Head a few miles into town to Thurmont Kountry Kitchen, a family-friendly restaurant and staple serving food since the 1980s.
Thurmont Kountry Kitchen, 17 Water St, Thurmont, MD 21788, USA
Tripadvisor Stefanie M
As soon as you walk through the doors, you’ll feel right at home. Whether you’re searching for a platter of eggs and bacon for morning fuel or a scrumptious homemade dinner, this place has it all.
Tripadvisor Stefanie M
Thurmont Kountry Kitchen has received recognition over the years, such as having the best hole-in-the-wall spots for fried chicken in Maryland, as well as other community awards.
Google Reviews Clayton & Cindy Putnam
Thurmont Kountry Kitchen is the perfect place for an inviting home-cooked meal surrounded by locals.
Tripadvisor PamS221
Click here to find the driving directions from Cunningham Falls State Park to Thurmont Country Kitchen.
Google Maps

What do you think about this small-town adventure in Maryland? Sound off in the comments section! If you want to learn more about either attraction, visit the Cunningham Falls Nature Trail NPS website or the Thurmont Kountry Kitchen website.

At OnlyInYourState, we love small-town exploration. If you love it too, then we have something for you! Take a look at these 10 best small towns in Maryland, offering nothing but peace and quiet.

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