These 5 Breathtaking Waterfalls Are Hiding Around Baltimore

City life is certainly exciting and busy, but does it ever start to feel like a bit of a routine? Next time you crave a nature-infused adventure, check out some top hiking trails with waterfalls near Baltimore. These five natural wonders are all less than an hour's drive away. The journey will definitely be worth it when you see how beautiful these cascades truly are in person.

1. Cascade Falls at Patapsco Valley State Park

This natural wonder is located at Patapsco Valley State Park. With over 30,000 acres of park, there's much to explore here! The park covers parts of Baltimore and Howard Counties. It's just a 25-minute drive from Baltimore City and the perfect spot for a hike. The trail to the waterfall (Cascade Falls Trail) is short, sweet, and easy, 2.3 miles out and back, making it definitely worth your while if you're looking for Baltimore hiking trails with waterfalls.

2. Gunpowder Falls at Gunpowder Falls State Park

Drive just half an hour, and you will find the massive 18,000-acre Gunpowder Falls State Park. This one lies in Baltimore County and Harford County, and it's a great park with one of our favorite lazy rivers near Baltimore. Since the Gunpowder River flows through most of the park, you'll spot tons of small waterfalls and gentle rapids throughout your journey, whether in a tube or on solid ground. This state park is a fantastic day trip destination from Baltimore.

3. Kilgore Falls at Rocks State Park

Kilgore Falls is in Rocks State Park, and not only is it absolutely gorgeous, but it's also a popular swimming spot in warmer months. Let the waterfall cascade down your back if you want to enjoy a refreshing day. It takes about 50 minutes to get here from the middle of Baltimore, but trust us, the drive is worth it for this much relaxation. Kilgore Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Maryland. You must see it in person for yourself to believe it!

4. Great Falls in Potomac

The mighty Potomac River flows through this majestic spot, of which one side is in Maryland and the other is in Virginia. The drive to Great Falls Park from Baltimore takes about an hour. The rapids are roaring and even more impressive after heavy rainfall—you'll quickly discover why they are so "great." This is one of the most beautiful places in Maryland (and Virginia).

5. Cunningham Falls at Cunningham Falls State Park

Cunningham Falls State Park is a little over an hour away from Baltimore. It's home to the highest cascading waterfall in Maryland and a beautiful beach. Climb the rocks here and sit while watching the water rush past you. This is an excellent spot for a picnic, so pack a lunch! This is one of the best Baltimore waterfalls to visit.

Have you visited any of these waterfalls near Baltimore? Are there any others you'd recommend? If so, go ahead and nominate them, and maybe you'll see them featured in a future article!

If you love chasing waterfalls, there are plenty of cascades in Maryland, so get out there and explore!