Craving peaceful hikes and the sound of rushing water? In this post, I’ll share the wooded trails, cascading streams, and hidden gems that shape Maryland’s waterfalls—where Mid-Atlantic charm meets the soothing sound of falling water. Waterfalls in Maryland offer hidden forest cascades, scenic trails, and perfect spots to unwind in nature’s beauty.
Highlights:
Unique Waterfalls
1. Cascade Falls - 25 minutes from Baltimore
Rating: ★★★★★
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Location:
Elkridge, MDHighlights:
Need a peaceful trail to clear your head? The Cascade Falls Trail is a short but beautiful walk through the woods that leads to a charming waterfall and flowing rapids—ideal for beginners looking to stretch their legs and reset.Recommended For:
Beginner hikers, nature photographers, locals looking for a quick and peaceful outing, and waterfall chasers.What I Love: ♥
The gentle loop, refreshing forest atmosphere, and scenic views of both the falls and surrounding rapids.- Start your journey at the Orange Grove Area and follow the 2.2-mile loop trail that’s mostly easy with a few steep spots.
- Discover the tranquil beauty of Cascade Falls—perfect for a mid-hike break or nature photography moment.
- Listen to the relaxing sound of the rushing rapids beyond the falls as you wind through the forest.
- Unwind in a peaceful, natural setting ideal for de-stressing after a busy workday or week.
Cost:
Free or minimal parking fee depending on season and entry point.Best time to visit:
Spring and fall when the foliage and water flow are at their most scenic.Local tips:
Wear hiking shoes with grip—while the trail is mostly easy, some inclines can get slippery after rain.Distance:
About 25 minutes from Baltimore, MD.How to Get to Cascade Falls Trail:
Head to the Orange Grove Area entrance in Patapsco Valley State Park. From Elkridge, take River Road west to reach the park gate, then follow signage for the trailhead loop.Address:
Orange Grove Area, Patapsco Valley State Park, Elkridge, MD 210752. Cunningham Falls - 1 hour and 15 minutes from Baltimore
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Location:
Thurmont, MDHighlights:
If you're up for scenic waterfalls and a taste of Maryland history, Cunningham Falls is a must-see. Set within a beautiful state park, it’s home to the state’s tallest cascading waterfall and so much more to explore.Recommended For:
Waterfall seekers, photographers, campers, nature lovers, and families looking for an all-day outdoor escape.What I Love: ♥
The 78-foot waterfall, folklore around the renaming, and fascinating features like a historic homestead and the Dunkards Trough.- Marvel at the 78-foot Cunningham Falls—locally known as McAfee Falls—Maryland’s tallest cascading waterfall.
- Explore the nearby remnants of a historical homestead and the Dunkards Trough, a unique rock formation once used for baptisms.
- Hike forested trails that wind around the falls and through the scenic Catoctin Mountains.
- Enjoy recreational options like swimming, boating, fishing, hunting, and camping within Cunningham Falls State Park.
Cost:
Entry fees vary by season and residency; typically $3–$5 per person for day use.Best time to visit:
Spring for full waterfall flow and fall for foliage views; summer is perfect for swimming and camping.Local tips:
Arrive early on weekends—parking fills up quickly during peak seasons, especially near the falls.Distance:
About 1 hour and 15 minutes from Baltimore, MD.How to Get to Cunningham Falls:
From Baltimore, take I-70 W to US-15 N toward Thurmont. Exit at MD-77 and follow Catoctin Hollow Road into the state park; signs for Cunningham Falls will guide you to the main entrance.Address:
Cunningham Falls State Park, 14039 Catoctin Hollow Road, Thurmont, MD 21788Romantic Waterfalls
3. Falling Branch Falls - 1 hour and 10 minutes from Baltimore
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Location:
Pylesville, MDHighlights:
Looking for a refreshing summer spot with a natural wow-factor? Kilgore Falls (aka Falling Branch Falls) is a hidden gem where you can swim under a waterfall just a short hike from the trailhead.Recommended For:
Swimmers, families, day hikers, and anyone craving a quick and scenic outdoor escape.What I Love: ♥
The 17-foot free-falling waterfall, shady half-mile forest trail, and the chance to cool off right under the falls.- Hike an easy half-mile trail from the Falling Branch parking lot straight to the base of Kilgore Falls.
- Swim beneath the cascading waters or wade through the shallow creek—perfect for hot summer days.
- Relax in the calm, natural pool surrounded by trees and boulders that feel miles away from city life.
- Picnic nearby at Rocks State Park or Eden Mill Nature Center, since eating and grilling aren’t permitted at the falls themselves.
Cost:
Free to enter; parking reservations required on weekends and holidays during peak season.Best time to visit:
Summer for swimming; early fall or late spring for fewer crowds and cool hiking weather.Local tips:
Arrive early and book a parking pass in advance during weekends—this spot is popular and fills fast!Distance:
About 1 hour and 10 minutes from Baltimore, MD.How to Get to Kilgore Falls:
From Baltimore, take I-83 North to MD-439, then head northeast toward Pylesville. Follow signs to Falling Branch Road. The trailhead begins at the designated Kilgore Falls parking lot.Address:
Rocks State Park: 1026 Falling Branch Road, Pylesville, MD 211324. Great Falls of the Potomac - 35 minutes from Washington, D.C.
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Location:
Potomac, MDHighlights:
Looking for epic scenery and outdoor adventure? Great Falls of the Potomac offers jaw-dropping views, thrilling rapids, and miles of trails right where Maryland and Virginia meet—it’s the kind of place you’ll want to return to again and again.Recommended For:
Hikers, rock climbers, kayakers, photographers, and families looking for an unforgettable day outdoors.What I Love: ♥
The dramatic 76-foot river descent, panoramic overlooks from Billy Goat Trail and Olmsted Island, and the pulse-pounding whitewater action.- Marvel at a series of cascading waterfalls and intense rapids as the Potomac drops 76 feet in under a mile.
- Hike the iconic Billy Goat Trail on Bear Island for up-close and elevated views of the falls and the gorge.
- Climb the rugged cliffs along the river for a challenging and scenic ascent.
- Paddle through one of the East Coast’s top whitewater destinations—ideal for seasoned kayakers and rafters.
- Relax with a picnic or simply take in the views from the observation platforms on Olmsted Island.
Cost:
$20 per vehicle; annual passes available for frequent visitors.Best time to visit:
Spring and fall for flowing water and mild weather; early morning to beat the crowds.Local tips:
Bring sturdy shoes—the Billy Goat Trail includes rock scrambles and uneven surfaces. Watch for park alerts during high water conditions.Distance:
About 35 minutes from Washington, D.C.How to Get to Great Falls of the Potomac:
From D.C., take the Clara Barton Parkway to MacArthur Blvd. Continue northwest until you reach the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center and Billy Goat Trailhead.Address:
Billy Goat Trail: 11710 MacArthur Blvd, Potomac, MD 20854Waterfalls for Families
5. Gunpowder Falls - 40 minutes from Baltimore
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Location:
Middle River, MDHighlights:
Ready to chase waterfalls and explore some serious Maryland history? Gunpowder Falls , tucked within the massive Gunpowder Falls State Park, offers everything from scenic cascades to historic villages and 120+ miles of trails to explore.Recommended For:
Hikers, history buffs, paddlers, beachgoers, and anyone craving a full day of nature and recreation.What I Love: ♥
The twin falls, the preserved charm of Jerusalem Mill Village, and the sheer variety of outdoor activities across one of Maryland’s largest parks.- Start your adventure from the Central Area trailhead, where scenic paths lead to both Big and Little Gunpowder Falls.
- Explore the historic Jerusalem Mill Village and 19th-century Joppa Iron Works right nearby.
- Hike or bike any of the 120 miles of trails winding through forest, stream valleys, and waterfronts.
- Paddle a kayak or canoe through the tranquil Gunpowder River, or cast a line at one of many fishing spots.
- Swim & relax at the park’s beach and marina area—ideal for a summer day in the sun.
Cost:
$3–$5 per person depending on entry point and residency; beach area may have additional fees.Best time to visit:
Spring and fall for waterfall hikes and foliage; summer for full-access fun on the water and at the beach.Local tips:
The park is large and divided into six areas—Central Area is best for the falls and historic sites. Grab a map to plan your route!Distance:
About 40 minutes from Baltimore, MD.How to Get to Gunpowder Falls:
From Baltimore, take I-95 North to Exit 67B for MD-43 East. Continue on Graces Quarters Road to reach the Central Area and parking for the falls and historic sites.Address:
Gunpowder Falls State Park, 7200 Graces Quarters Road, Middle River, MD 212206. Muddy Creek Falls - 3 hours and 15 minutes from Baltimore
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Location:
Oakland, MDHighlights:
If you're looking for dramatic beauty in Western Maryland, Muddy Creek Falls delivers. As Maryland’s highest free-falling waterfall, it’s surrounded by ancient hemlocks, rich history, and some of the best trails in the region.Recommended For:
Waterfall chasers, history lovers, campers, mountain bikers, and families looking for an iconic state park experience.What I Love: ♥
The 53-foot waterfall drop, centuries-old hemlock trees, and the fact that even Henry Ford and Thomas Edison came to marvel at the views.- See the impressive Muddy Creek Falls plunge 53 feet into the Youghiogheny River gorge—the tallest of its kind in Maryland.
- Wander through ancient forests of towering hemlocks, some over 300 years old.
- Explore hiking trails that lead to smaller cascades and scenic river views.
- Picnic in designated areas with a covered pavilion and nearby playground for the kids.
- Stay overnight at one of the park’s well-maintained campsites, ideal for stargazing and peaceful mornings.
Cost:
$3–$5 per person depending on residency and season; additional fees for camping.Best time to visit:
Late spring through early fall—perfect for hiking and waterfall photography; fall offers vivid foliage.Local tips:
Trails can get muddy—wear sturdy shoes. The falls are especially powerful after recent rains, so check the weather for best views.Distance:
About 3 hours and 15 minutes from Baltimore, MD.How to Get to Muddy Creek Falls:
From I-70, head west toward Cumberland, then take US-219 South to Oakland. Follow signs to Swallow Falls State Park on Maple Glade Road.Address:
Swallow Falls State Park, 2470 Maple Glade Road, Oakland, MD 21550Waterfalls for Photographers
7. Swallow Falls - 3 hours and 15 minutes from Baltimore
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Location:
Oakland, MDHighlights:
After you’ve marveled at Maryland’s tallest waterfall, don’t miss the charming Swallow Falls—a peaceful cascade nestled along the Youghiogheny River. With scenic trails, a beach, and wooded campsites, this park is the perfect escape for nature lovers.Recommended For:
Campers, families, swimmers, nature photographers, and anyone looking to unwind in a forested setting with plenty of amenities.What I Love: ♥
The tranquil beauty of Swallow Falls, summer lake access, and cozy campground with modern comforts.- Visit the smaller Swallow Falls—ideal for a quiet moment after taking in the grandeur of nearby Muddy Creek Falls.
- Hike scenic forest trails that wind past both waterfalls and under centuries-old hemlock trees.
- Swim in the park’s lake or rent a boat for a relaxing paddle; both are available during summer season.
- Play at the picnic area with pavilion and playground—great for families and group gatherings.
- Camp overnight in well-equipped wooded campsites, complete with fire rings, modern restrooms, and a peaceful forest backdrop.
Cost:
$3–$5 per person depending on season and residency; additional fees for camping, boating, and rentals.Best time to visit:
Summer for lake fun and full amenities; fall for crisp hikes and colorful foliage.Local tips:
Summer weekends are popular—reserve campsites early and arrive early for lake activities and boat rentals.Distance:
About 3 hours and 15 minutes from Baltimore, MD.How to Get to Swallow Falls:
Take I-70 W toward Cumberland, then follow US-219 South to Oakland. Turn onto Mayhew Inn Road, then right onto Swallow Falls Road and follow signs to the park entrance on Maple Glade Road.Address:
Swallow Falls State Park, 2470 Maple Glade Road, Oakland, MD 215508. Tolliver Falls - 3 hours and 15 minutes from Baltimore
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Location:
Oakland, MDHighlights:
Want a quiet moment away from the crowds? Tolliver Falls is a peaceful little gem tucked inside Swallow Falls State Park—a short, scenic hike from the Herrington Lane entrance and a perfect detour for anyone visiting the area’s bigger waterfalls.Recommended For:
Quiet seekers, hikers, photographers, and anyone looking for a serene stop in nature without the crowds.What I Love: ♥
The secluded, calming setting, quick access from the trailhead, and its proximity to both Muddy Creek and Swallow Falls for a full waterfall trifecta.- Hike a short trail from Herrington Lane to reach this peaceful, tucked-away waterfall.
- Enjoy the gentle cascade and lush surroundings—perfect for quiet reflection or a peaceful photo op.
- Pair your visit with stops at nearby Muddy Creek Falls and Swallow Falls for a complete experience.
- Camp under the trees, swim in the lake, or explore miles of trails for a full outdoor weekend.
- Rent a boat or pack a picnic—there’s plenty to do within the park, especially in summer months.
Cost:
$3–$5 per person; fees may vary by residency and season. Camping and rentals available for additional cost.Best time to visit:
Late spring through early fall for quiet hiking, photography, and access to all park amenities.Local tips:
Visit in the early morning for solitude, and don’t skip the other two falls in the park—they’re close by and just as stunning.Distance:
About 3 hours and 15 minutes from Baltimore, MD.How to Get to Tolliver Falls:
From Oakland, take Mayhew Inn Road to Swallow Falls Road, then turn onto Herrington Lane. Park at the Herrington Lane trailhead and follow the short, well-marked path to the falls.Address:
Swallow Falls State Park: 222 Herrington Lane, Oakland, MD 21550Plan Your Trip