This book provides the most current and comprehensive review available of the natural and human history of the Catoctin Mountain region of Maryland, a part of the beautiful and interesting Blue Ridge physiographic province. The book is divided into three sections. In section one, the author systematically reviews the landforms, waters, weather, plants, animals, and other environmental features of the region, and then reviews how humans have used and modified this mountain landscape. Section two is a detailed guide which provides the reader with maps and descriptive information about the parks -- all of which make reading about or visiting this part of the Blue Ridge an easier, more meaningful, and more satisfying experience. Sources of additional information about the parks and the Catoctin Mountain region are provided in section three.