This past weekend we went backpacking in Catoctin Mountain National Park, my first backpacking trip since my move to the DMV. It was T's first backpack, and it was a good intro (or re-intro) for both of us.
Catoctin is divided into east and west halves, with Camp David sitting in the middle, off-limits to most of us. The most well-known parts of the park are in the eastern half - it's where the views are. On the western side is the northern terminus of the Catoctin Trail, as well as two reservable Adirondack shelters. We reserved shelter 1, although the other was empty during our stay. Shelter 1 is more in the trees, while 2 has a mini-meadow around it. Both have their own privy.
Shelter visitors have to camp at Round Meadow, unless of course someone is dropping them off, so there is a natural route of about 3.5 miles to the shelters. Some alternatives could make it longer (and hillier). We chose the easiest route. It was raining on Saturday, so we weren't eager to make it longer than necessary. On Sunday, we came back by almost the same route. There are two spots where two trails are parallel and for a bit, such as the yellow loop, so we enjoy those minor differences. We also enjoyed the sunshine!
The trails were mostly well maintained - the trail off of Round Meadow was the most overgrown, unexpectedly. We found the trails pleasant and scenic, crossing streams and passing interpretive areas.
Next time we head up there, we will spend time in the eastern half, but I think we will do it midweek. On Sunday when we stopped by the visitor's center, it was extremely busy.
