Are you feeling adventurous, Maryland? Today’s road trip includes the best waterfalls in Maryland. That’s right – eight waterfalls in seven locations. Most require a quick trail hike, so make sure to dress appropriately for the journey. Driving time is six hours, 10 minutes, and that doesn’t include exploring each location, so you may want to consider making this a weekend or multi-day trip. Start at either end of the route and find the Google Map for this road trip here!

Are you ready? Let’s go!

GoogleMaps
1. Muddy Creek Falls & Swallow Falls
Random Michelle / Flickr
Doug Kerr / Flickr
Our first stop is a two-for-one deal with Muddy Creek Falls and Swallow Falls both lying in Swallow Falls State Park. Many people consider these Maryland's most impressive waterfalls. The two waterfalls sit just one mile apart, although be prepared for a somewhat challenging hike between the two. (You may have to climb over boulders and logs.) If you're visiting during the summer, don't forget your swimsuit. A swimming hole sits near Swallow Falls, providing the perfect opportunity to cool down on a hot summer day.

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2. Paw Paw Falls
Bob Marquart / Flickr
Paw Paw Falls is located at the C&O Canal, on the Maryland side of the Paw Paw tunnel. This entire section of the canal is quite scenic so make sure you take a few hours to explore, including the Paw Paw Tunnel. Stroll through the dark tunnel (bring a flashlight) that spans 3,118 feet. Legend says the tunnel might be haunted, so be prepared to experience the paranormal.

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 Hike To A Gorgeous Swimming Hole At Swallow Falls State Park In Maryland

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 Swim At The Bottom Of A Waterfall After The Half-Mile Hike To Kilgore Falls In Maryland

Swim At The Bottom Of A Waterfall After The Half-Mile Hike To Kilgore Falls In Maryland
3. Cunningham Falls
Nicolas Raymond / Flickr
Next we head to Thurmont to check out Cunningham Falls, tucked in Cunningham Falls State Park. This is the highest cascading waterfall in Maryland. You can even climb the rocks (just be careful) and sit next to the water as it gushes down. While you're at Cunningham Falls State Park, embark on one of the hiking trails, or go for a swim in Hunting Creek Lake (from Memorial Day to Labor Day annually.)

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4. Great Falls
baldeaglebluff / Flickr
This is part of the powerful Potomac River and the current changes often due to weather patterns. It's almost a different experience each time you go. Even better? You don't have to hike to get to the majestic waterfall. Stop by the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center, where you'll set off on a short stroll to a viewing area that promises sensational views of the waterfall.

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5. Cascade Falls
Bart / Flickr
Located near Elkridge in Patapsco Valley State Park, Cascade Falls is always a beautiful sight. The way the water trickles down the rocks is something to behold. For the fastest way to the waterfall, park in the Avalon area. There, you'll see a sign for Cascade Falls Trail, which spans three miles. Follow the trail markers to get to one of the best waterfalls in Maryland.

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6. Gunpowder Falls
Phil Romans / Flickr
Gunpowder Falls is a series of smaller waterfalls located in Gunpowder Falls State Park. It's also an excellent place to hike. Once you've relaxed by the series of waterfalls, grab your inner tube and head to the water for a tubing adventure down the natural lazy river. (If you need to rent a tube, stop by Monkton Bike Rental first.)

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7. Kilgore Falls
Bart / Flickr
Sometimes called Falling Branch Falls, Kilgore Falls is nestled in a beautiful wooded area of Rocks State Park. Lace up your hiking boots for the 1.2-mile hike along the Falling Branch Trail, which will lead you directly to the breathtaking waterfall. Definitely plan a visit during all four seasons. When you're visiting during the summer, bring your swimsuit. Kilgore Falls drops into a spectacular swimming hole.

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Remember, you can follow along the Google Map by clicking here. After you’ve completed this trip to the best waterfalls in Maryland, you can officially say that you’ve visited all of Maryland’s major waterfalls! Safe travels!

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best waterfalls in maryland

Beth Price-Williams | January 04, 2020

What are the best waterfall hikes in Maryland?

Ready for an adventure that leads you to a breathtaking waterfall? Lace up your hiking boots, and set off on one of the best waterfall hikes in Maryland. If you’re on the hunt for a short and sweet waterfall hike, for example, follow Cascade Falls Trail in Patapsco Valley State Park. The quarter of a mile path is really short, but it’s also pretty rocky so be prepared. You’ll likely hear the gushing of the falls before you arrive at Cascade Falls, a popular spot for summer visitors to wade in the pool into which the waterfall drops.

Bring the whole family for the one-mile hike, in Rocks State Park, that leads to Kilgore Falls. Follow the Falling Branch Trail, which promises plenty of scenic beauty – from boardwalks to a flowing stream. The masterpiece, of course, is Kilgore Falls, known as Maryland’s second largest freefalling waterfall.

What is the largest waterfall in Maryland?

If you want to see some of the best waterfalls in Maryland, you’ll definitely want to visit Muddy Creek Falls. Dropping 53 feet, the waterfall holds the title of the tallest freefalling waterfall in Maryland. Admire the waterfall from several different angles, including from the base of the waterfall and from scenic viewing areas above the waterfall.

Are there any other scenic hikes in Maryland?

Even if you’re not a fan of waterfalls, you’ll discover a long list of scenic hikes in Maryland. Liberty Dam Trail in Central Maryland, for example, promises stunning views. The 1.6-mile loop trail offers a variety of views of streams, chiseled rocks, and lush trees. However, the highlight of the trail is cascading water of the Liberty Dam.

How does a hike that will take you to one of Maryland’s natural wonders sound? Follow Section A of the Billy Goat Trail for sensational views of Mather Gorge from the Maryland side. (You can also see it from the Virginia side.) While the hike offers sensational views, it is also challenging, so make sure you wear sturdy hiking boots and take care as you hike.

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Featured Addresses
Muddy Creek Falls, Maryland 21550, USA
Paw Paw Tunnel, Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, Towpath, Oldtown, MD 21555, USA
Cunningham Falls, Maryland 21783, USA
Great Falls, Potomac, MD 20854, USA
Gunpowder Falls State Park Hammerman Area, 7200 Graces Quarters Rd, Middle River, MD 21220, USA
Rocks State Park, 3318 Rocks Chrome Hill Rd, Jarrettsville, MD 21084, USA