Here’s The Perfect Weekend Itinerary If You Love Exploring Maryland’s Waterfalls
Have you ever searched online for “waterfalls near me in Maryland?” Many people have lived in Maryland for decades without having seen the state’s best waterfalls. Consider making this the year that changes. Check out this weekend road trip itinerary that will take you to nature-infused restaurants, a scenic campground, and Maryland’s most amazing waterfalls.
The first stop is at Rocks State Park, located in Harford County. Also known as Falling Branch Falls, this spot is also used as a swimming hole in the summer. Read more about the trail to Kilgore Falls, one of the best waterfall hikes in Maryland in a previous article.
Head to the Avalon area of Patapsco Valley State Park and you'll find that this charming waterfall is a short hike away. Read more about Cascade Falls in Maryland in a previous article. And while you're in the area, you can also explore Maryland's ever impressive swinging bridge.
Treat yourself to a meal at this Rockville restaurant that's located in the most unforgettable setting. Going along with the weekend's nature theme, this rustic eatery has an outdoor oasis, hand-carved woodwork, and of course delicious food. Read more about this extraordinary restaurant by reading our previous article.
4. Cunningham Falls State Park
Cunningham Falls State Park, 14039 Catoctin Hollow Rd, Thurmont, MD 21788, USA
Rest your head for the night at Maryland's waterfall campground, Cunningham Falls State Park. Book your campsite in advance and read our previous article about Cunningham Falls State Park in Maryland.
Located at the park is of course, Cunningham Falls. Awake the next morning and explore Maryland's highest cascading waterfall before heading to the next destination. It's one of the best waterfall hikes in Maryland.
5. Paw Paw Falls
Paw Paw Tunnel Campground, Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath, Oldtown, MD 21555, USA
Located along the C&O Canal near Oakland, Paw Paw Falls is a trickling waterfall next to Paw Paw Tunnel. While you're in the area, feel free to walk through the tunnel, but watch out for alleged hauntings. More about the tunnel at Paw Paw Falls in Maryland in a previous article.
If you're feeling famished, head to Mountain State Brewing Company in McHenry. The sprawling views while you eat are inspiring and will give you the energy to explore the next and final location. Visit the Mountain State Brewing website and Facebook page for more information.
7. Swallow Falls State Park
Swallow Falls State Park, 2470 Maple Glade Rd, Oakland, MD 21550, USA
Maryland's most impressive waterfalls just may be at Swallow Falls State Park. Pictured above is Swallow Falls, which is a favorite swimming spot among visitors in the summer...
And pictured here is the grand finale of the trip, Muddy Creek Falls. You can view this natural wonder from up top or observe it from the bottom. No matter what, it's certainly breathtaking. Read more about Swallow Falls State Park in Maryland in a previous article.
When you’ve searched online for “waterfalls near me in Maryland,” did any of the ones along this trip come up in the results? Would you take this weekend road trip? Share your thoughts below, and be sure to check out this list of even more Maryland waterfalls!
Address: Kilgore Falls Trail, Maryland 21132, USA
Address: Cascade Falls Trail, Elkridge, MD 21075, USA
Address: Cunningham Falls State Park, 14039 Catoctin Hollow Rd, Thurmont, MD 21788, USA
Address: Paw Paw Tunnel Campground, Chesapeake and Ohio Canal Towpath, Oldtown, MD 21555, USA
Address: 6690 Sang Run Rd, McHenry, MD 21541, USA
Address: Swallow Falls State Park, 2470 Maple Glade Rd, Oakland, MD 21550, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Waterfalls Near Me In Maryland
April 03, 2022
Melissa M.
What are some of the best waterfall hikes in Maryland?
The Old Line State has plenty of waterfalls sprinkled throughout. How about marveling at some of the hidden waterfalls in Maryland that will surely surprise you and take your breath away? Aside from a few like Kilgore Falls and Muddy Creek Falls that were mentioned in the article above, you can head to Baltimore County to find Raven Rock Falls. Located within Gunpowder Falls State Park, this waterfall is small but absolutely lovely. You can also find the large Gunpowder Falls in the same park.
What are some of the best state parks for hiking in Maryland?
With 53 state parks, Maryland offers plenty of ways to get outdoors and explore along a trail. Head to any one of the state parks and you’ll find plenty of hiking trails. Close to Baltimore are some of the state’s best parks including Patapsco Valley State Park, Hart-Miller Island State Park, and Matthew Henson State Park, among others. You can learn more in this article.
What is the tallest waterfall in Maryland?
At 78-feet tall, Cunningham Falls is considered the tallest waterfall in the state of Maryland. After that, Great Falls of the Potomac comes in second place at 76 feet.
Address: Kilgore Falls Trail, Maryland 21132, USA
Address: Cascade Falls Trail, Elkridge, MD 21075, USA
Jamie Alvarenga is a writer and editor for Only In Your State.
She spends her time chasing around a curious toddler and going on coffee-fueled adventures throughout Maryland. Contact: jalvarenga@onlyinyourstate.com
