Waterfalls in Maryland

Location:

Elkridge, MD

Highlights:

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 we 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 21075

Location:

Thurmont, MD

Highlights:

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 we 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 21788

Romantic Waterfalls

Location:

Pylesville, MD

Highlights:

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 we 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 21132

Location:

Potomac, MD

Highlights:

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 we 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 20854

Waterfalls for Families

Location:

Middle River, MD

Highlights:

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 we 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 21220

Location:

Oakland, MD

Highlights:

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 we 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 21550

Waterfalls for Photographers

Location:

Oakland, MD

Highlights:

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 we 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 21550

Location:

Oakland, MD

Highlights:

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 we 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 21550