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National Parks In Frederick County
Frederick County is home to five National Parks: Monocacy National Battlefield, Catoctin Mountain Park, Chesapeake and Ohio National Historic Park, Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, and Appalachian National Scenic Trail. Together, these parks constitute over 10,000 acres of land in Frederick County.
Catoctin Mountain Park:
President Franklin Roosevelt created Catoctin Recreational Demonstration Area to conserve and protect Catoctin Mountain in 1936. During World War II, the park was converted to a presidential retreat called Shangri-La. The park was closed to the public, and used by soldiers and Allied leaders. Today, the park is open to the public and features hiking trails and other recreational activities.
Chesapeake & Ohio National Historic Park:
The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal was used to transport coal, lumber, and agricultural products from 1850 to 1924. It was acquired by the National Park Service in 1938, with the intent of building Civilian Conservation Corps camps. These camps were in place until 1943.
Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail:
The Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail is a combination of paths taken by George Washington, who utilized the Potomac River throughout his life for transportation and commerce. The 710-mile trail focuses on conservation, history, and culture. It encompasses parts of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, Mount Vernon Trail, and the Laurel Highlands Trail. While parts of the trail are still under construction, it became a National Scenic Trail in 1983.
Appalachian National Scenic Trail:
In 1925, regional planner Benton MacKaye held the Appalachian Trail Conference following the publication of his proposal for a multi-state trail. Here, citizens and the Civilian Conservation Corps were inspired to work together to build the Appalachian Trail. The trail was completed in 1937, and transferred to the National Park Service in 1968, when additional routes were developed. Today, the Appalachian National Scenic Trial is 2,185 miles long, with more than 6,000 volunteers assisting in its maintenance and protection. |