Thurmont

Just south of the Pennsylvania border, and 60 miles from the nation’s capital sits Thurmont, Maryland, a place where you can get lost in nature. “Access to the Appalachian Trail, the Potomac, scenic views, we really have it all,” says Kelly Losquardo of Long & Foster Real Estate. “You feel tucked away, and further from civilization than you really are.” Thurmont also features a strong school district and plenty of parks for locals to explore the outdoors.

Three-bedroom ranch-style and tri-level homes in Thurmont start around $235,000 but can range up to nearly $350,000. Larger, newly renovated craftsman homes from the turn of the century go for about $500,000. “You are getting a lot of value for your money in this area compared to some surrounding neighborhoods,” says Losquardo. Homes tend to have a lot of space between them and front and back yards for a pet to exercise. The mix of leafed and evergreen trees provides shade, while the Maryland precipitation keeps the lawns green for most of the year. Proximity to Interstate 270 is key as Losquardo points out many people commute into D.C. for work, “we do have public transportation options, but it can take a while so most folks just drive.”

Students in Thurmont enter the Fredrick County Public Schools system, beginning at the K-2 Thurmont Primary, which has a B-minus rating on Niche. Niche states that Thurmont Elementary School and Thurmont Middle School both earn B ratings. Thurmont Elementary boasts a 12:1 student-to-teacher ratio, much better than the national average. Teens head to Catoctin High School, which also has a B rating on Niche. Catoctin High offers 24/7 online tutoring and was ranked as one of the top high schools in Maryland for athletes.

Thurmont residents love getting outside, “within just a few miles there are multiple state and national parks,” boasts Losquadro. One such park is Catoctin Mountain Park, home to a variety of hiking trails, horseback riding areas and camping to lay out under the stars. “Some of the trails lead to these scenic overlooks that are just stunning.” The East Side trails are more traveled, while the West Side Trails provide a wilder and more quiet experience. At Loy’s Station Park, anglers can fish in Owens Creek, while others fire up the community grills for a picnic or play a game of horseshoes. East End Park is home to five baseball fields and Eyler Park has three multi-purpose fields, both often host youth sporting events. For an outdoor workout, Thurmont Community Park offers a fitness trail along with tennis and basketball courts.

Mountain Gate Family Restaurant is serving up breakfast all day, but also offers lunch and dinner options. The Truckers Breakfast with two eggs, bacon, pancakes and toast is popular, as is the dinner buffet. For burgers, barbecue and more, diners head to Bollinger’s Restaurant. Bollinger’s also has fried chicken and crab cake options for dinner. For a quick slice or a full pie, you can’t go wrong with Rocky’s Pizza. Catoctin Breeze Vinyard offers guided tastings and live music throughout the year, while Springfield Manor Winery welcomes in live music for patrons to enjoy with one of their many award-winning wines.

Produce doesn’t get fresher than it does coming from Chestnut Hill Farm and Market. The 60-acre farm produces vegetables and spices for sale on-site. The six-generation, family-owned business has expanded to selling dairy, meats and fruits as well. At Catoctin Mountain Orchard, customers can pick their own apples, while also stocking up on local specialties like apple cider donuts, honey sticks and pies. To stock up on a full week of groceries, national chains Weis Markets and Food Lion are located right off Highway 15. Target has you covered with essentials, while Westview Promenade provides a complete retail experience, both off of I-270.

Written By

John Moyer

Photography Contributed By

Tyler Priola

Video By

Maurice McNeil