Posted in Maryland Nature December 14, 2020 by

These 10 Hidden Waterfalls In Maryland Will Take Your Breath Away

When someone thinks of gorgeous waterfalls, they may imagine an exotic destination far, far away. However, there are actually quite a few breathtaking waterfalls located right here in Maryland. Listed below are 10 of the best hidden waterfalls in Maryland, some of which are best visited during the off-season, for a more secluded, peaceful experience.

During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
1) Muddy Creek Falls, Garrett County
Paul Waldo / Flickr
Muddy Creek Falls is the highest free-falling waterfall in Maryland. The beautiful cascade drops down 53 feet and tumbles over rocks that date back 300 million years. Learn more on the official website of Swallow Falls State Park.
2) Kilgore Falls, Harford County
Mark S / Flickr
Part of Deer Creek, this is sometimes also referred to as Falling Branch Falls. Kilgore Falls isn't necessarily that high for a waterfall - tumbling down just 17 feet. However, it's earned distinction as the "second highest vertical drop waterfall" in Maryland, according to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Learn more about Kilgore Falls.
3) Cunningham Falls, Frederick County
Aonghas Crann / Flickr
This is the highest cascading waterfall in the Old Line State. It's tucked within the picturesque Cunningham Falls State Park, which offers a full menu of activities - from hiking and picnicking to boating and camping. Stop by the official website of Cunningham Falls State Park for more information.
4) Great Falls, Montgomery County
M H / Flickr
Part of the powerful Potomac River, this is truly a gorgeous waterfall. You'll definitely want to bring your camera to capture the water that gushes over beautiful rock formations. Head over to the official website of Great Falls Park from the U.S. National Park Service.
5) Swallow Falls, Garret County
Doug Kerr / Flickr
Like Muddy Creek Falls, the waterfall is also located in Swallow Falls State Park. The water height varies with the seasons but always remains breathtaking. You can hike from Muddy Creek Falls to Swallow Falls. Follow the 1.25-mile trail that can be a bit tricky at times. (It's worth it for the views, however.) Here's the official website of Swallow Falls State Park.
6) Cascade Falls, Howard County
Wikimedia Commons
Located in Patapsco Valley State Park, the Cascade Falls trickle down the rocks in the most delicate way. If you have time, explore more of the massive state park that boasts 200 miles of hiking trails. Seventy miles of those trails are maintained. Learn more on the official website of Patapsco Valley State Park.
7) Paw Paw Falls, Allegany County
Bob Marquart / Flickr
This is such a neat photo of Paw Paw Falls taken from inside the Paw Paw Tunnel, which is part of the C & O Canal. Find more information on the Paw Paw Tunnel and Paw Paw Tunnel Trail.
8) Raven Rock Falls, Baltimore County
Wikimedia Commons
This little-known waterfall is worth a trip. Nestled in Gunpowder Falls State Park, the beautiful cascade drops 20 feet and is particularly pretty after a recent rainfall. Stop by the official website of Gunpowder Falls State Park.
9) Dulaney Valley Falls, Baltimore County
Wikimedia Commons
You can find this waterfall among the Dulaney Valley Loop Trail. Technically an unnamed waterfall, the cascade drops 17 feet and is well worth visiting.
10) Gunpowder Falls, Baltimore and Harford County
Phil Romans / Flickr
Gunpowder Falls State Park is worth a visit for its numerous smaller waterfalls. Gunpowder Falls itself tumbles down 43 feet and can be found along the 9.2-mile Big Gunpowder Falls Trail. Head over to the official website of Gunpowder Falls State Park for more information.

What are some other hidden waterfalls in Maryland? Share in the comments so we can all be aware of these amazing waterfalls in Maryland. Next time you’re on a road trip, follow this road trip to some of the best waterfalls in Maryland.

Address: Muddy Creek Falls, 14, West Oakland, MD 21550, USA
Address: Kilgore Falls Trail, Pylesville, MD 21132, USA
Address: Cunningham Falls, 10, Hauvers, MD 21783, USA
Address: Great Falls, Potomac, MD 20854, USA
Address: Swallow Falls Rd, Oakland, MD 21550, USA
Address: Allegany County, MD, USA
Address: 7200 Graces Quarters Rd, Middle River, MD 21220, USA
Address: Baltimore County, MD, USA
Address: Big Gunpowder Falls, Maryland, USA
Address: Elkridge, MD 21075, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center

hidden waterfalls in maryland

December 19, 2020
Beth Price-Williams

What are the best waterfall hikes in Maryland?

One of the prettiest natural wonders is the waterfall, and you’ll find no shortage of waterfalls in Maryland. In fact, if you’re up for a breathtaking road trip, hit the road on the waterfall road trip in Maryland that will take you to such beautiful waterfalls as Muddy Creek Falls and Swallow Falls. Arguably among the best waterfall hikes in Maryland, the two waterfalls are just one-mile apart. The trail, however, can be a bit challenging. The hikes to Cunningham Falls, Cascade Falls, and Gunpowder Falls are also bucket list-worthy.

What are the most beautiful hikes in Maryland?

Lace up your hiking boots, because you’ll find quite a few scenic hiking trails in Maryland that appeal to hikers of all ages and all skill levels. Make your way to Loch Raven Reservoir, for example, where you can choose from one of three easy paths, each dotted with such natural features as lush trees and water. Sugarloaf Mountain also boasts several trails and is a Registered Natural Landmark. Along the trails, you’ll discover local wildlife, unique rock formations, and jaw-dropping views from scenic vistas. To find other beautiful hiking trails, head to Green Ridge State Forest, Savage River State Forest, and Elk Neck State Park.

Does Maryland have any natural wonders?

Some of the most beautiful places in Maryland are natural wonders. If you’re a fan of nature, you’ll love all that there is to discover in Maryland, including Calvert Cliffs. The cliffs, which formed more than 10 million years ago, are a photographer’s dream. If you visit, take a bag with you, so you can take all of the fossils you collect on the beach home. Waterfalls are abundant in Maryland, and one of the prettiest is undoubtedly Muddy Creek Falls. It’s tucked in Swallow Falls State Park and is absolutely stunning from both the base and from overhead.

Address: Muddy Creek Falls, 14, West Oakland, MD 21550, USA
Address: Kilgore Falls Trail, Pylesville, MD 21132, USA
Address: Cunningham Falls, 10, Hauvers, MD 21783, USA
Address: Great Falls, Potomac, MD 20854, USA
Address: Swallow Falls Rd, Oakland, MD 21550, USA
Address: Allegany County, MD, USA
Address: 7200 Graces Quarters Rd, Middle River, MD 21220, USA
Address: Baltimore County, MD, USA
Address: Big Gunpowder Falls, Maryland, USA
Address: Elkridge, MD 21075, USA