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Celebrate Community at Wander the Woodlands at Cultivate Curiosity at Savor Your Surroundings at Pursue Your Peace at ThorpeWood
Farm & Lodge
Welcome to ThorpeWood
In 1960, Merle Thorpe Jr. purchased 23 acres nestled in Maryland’s Catoctin Mountains, just outside Thurmont. A corporate attorney by profession, Merle spent nearly every weekend retreating to his mountain property along Bussard Branch, trading the demands of city life for fresh air, quiet trails and time outdoors.
But Merle had a bigger vision for this land. He believed the opportunity to experience nature, and all the good that comes with it, should extend well beyond those fortunate enough to own a piece of it.
In 1993, he established the Merle Thorpe Jr. Charitable Trust to ensure that vision would continue long after him.
And what began as 23 acres has grown into something pretty remarkable.
Today, ThorpeWood encompasses 156 acres of forests, meadows, streams, trails, farm and gathering spaces. Over the years, thousands of people have come to ThorpeWood to explore the outdoors, connect with animals, learn something new, celebrate life’s milestones or simply enjoy being here.
Through the continued stewardship of the Merle Thorpe Jr. Charitable Trust, we’re carrying that legacy forward. Community partnerships and programs, meaningful experiences with our animals and the outdoors and memorable gatherings at the Lodge will remain at the heart of what we do.
There’s more to the story.
There’s a lot to look forward to, and we’re excited to share it with you.
We’re creating new opportunities to experience ThorpeWood, welcoming community partnerships and continuing to care for the land, animals and spaces that make this place so special.
And while we’re busy building our new website, life on the mountain isn’t slowing down. The seasons are changing, the animals are keeping us on our toes and there’s always something happening around here!
Stay connected!
Follow along on Facebook and Instagram to see what we’re up to, and join our newsletter for upcoming events, programs and new ways to experience ThorpeWood.
