12 Best Waterfalls in Maryland, From Local Favorites to Hidden Gems

Spring is finally here, and now is the time to chase some waterfalls. From the tallest waterfall in Maryland to a hidden gem tucked within a local city park, these 12 local falls are a beautiful sight to see. If you're looking to view some stunning cascades, read on to find out more about the best waterfalls in Maryland.

As with most waterfall adventures, there's the potential to get wet. Make sure you've got your best hiking gear with you as you visit these Maryland waterfalls.

Tallest Waterfalls in Maryland

The tallest waterfalls in Maryland offer stunning views and picture-perfect photo opportunities. Whether you observe them from the start of the cascade or watch from the pools below, you are guaranteed amazing views.

1. Cunningham Falls, Thurmont

• Location: Cunningham Falls State Park, Thurmont, Maryland
• Popularity: Popular
• Need to Know: Open year-round. There is an entrance fee to enter the park.

If you want to visit the biggest waterfall in Maryland, head to Cunningham Falls State Park in Thurmont. At 78 feet tall, Cunningham Falls is truly breathtaking. The Frederick County natural wonder is located within the William Houck area of the park, hidden within the Catoctin Mountains. Hikers can take the scenic Cunningham Falls Nature Trail to access the cascading waterfall. The trail is about five miles, but you can also take the shorter, one-mile Lower Falls Trail, which leads to the base of the falls. While you are visiting Cunningham Falls State Park, stop for a swim at Hunting Creek Lake.

2. Great Falls of the Potomac, Williamsport

• Location: Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, Williamsport, Maryland
• Popularity: Popular
• Need to Know: Open year-round. There is an entrance fee, and reservations are required to enter the park. The trail to the waterfall is easily accessible. 

The Great Falls of the Potomac offer a particularly unique experience because the falls can be viewed from both Maryland and Virginia. The multi-series cascade through the Potomac River, with a total 76-foot drop, is located within the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park. A short, accessible trail leads from the Great Falls Tavern Visitor Center to the scenic overlook—one of the most beautiful cascades in the state. Visit the official website of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park for more information about entrance fees and reservations.

3. Muddy Creek Falls, Oakland

• Location: Swallow Falls State Park, Oakland, Maryland
• Popularity: Popular
• Need to Know: Open year-round. There is a fee to enter the park.

If you are looking to witness a magnificent waterfall in Western Maryland, you must visit Muddy Creek Falls in the Swallow Falls State Park. At 53 feet tall, Muddy Creek Falls is the highest free-falling waterfall in the state. The breathtaking fall was formed when a creek flowing into the Youghiogheny River formed into a gorge. It's quite a sight to see any time of year. A short but scenic walk among the beautiful hemlock trees will lead you to the falls.

Best Waterfall Hikes in Maryland

I can't think of a more beautiful way to spend the day than a hike to see a gorgeous cascade. These waterfall hikes in Maryland are perfect for a quick day trip or an epic waterfall road trip adventure.

4. Tolliver Falls, Oakland

• Location: Swallow Falls State Park, Oakland, Maryland
• Popularity: Hidden Gem
• Need to Know: Open year-round. There is a fee to enter the park.

Tolliver Falls is another pretty fall that is located within the Swallow Falls State Park in Garrett County. Although not as grand as the nearby Muddy Creek Falls, this lesser-known wonder is definitely worth seeing. A short but very scenic trail takes you to the fall, where you'll be met with picturesque views and a peaceful spot to stop and relax. There is some brush and trees to get through, so just be mindful of that if you're looking to get the ideal photo-op.

5. Kilgore Falls, Pylesville

• Location: Rocks State Park, Pylesville, Maryland
• Popularity: Popular
• Need to Know: Open year-round. Weekend and holiday reservations are required to enter the park during the summer season.

For a unique waterfall adventure, you will want to visit Kilgore Falls at Rock Creek Park/Falling Branch Falls in Harford County. You can actually stand under the 17-foot fall and take a dip in the natural swimming hole into which it feeds. Kilgore is the second-highest free-falling waterfall in the state. A 1.2-mile hike along the Falling Branch Trail will take you to the fall. Please note that there is no lifeguard on duty, and swimming is at your own risk.

6. Gilpin's Falls, North East

• Location: North East, Maryland
• Popularity: Hidden Gem
• Need to Know: Open year-round. The hike can be challenging, and the trail is not well-marked.

Gilpin Falls is another lesser-known Maryland waterfall. It's located in North East Maryland near Cecil College, and is accessible via a short trail just under two miles. The beautiful area is also home to Gilpin's Falls Covered Bridge, a historic covered bridge that dates back to 1860. Start your hike there, or refer to the trailhead maps for other trailhead areas. (Just note: Many sections of the trail are not well-marked.) Due to overgrowth, boulders, and potentially slippery conditions, the trail is also not highly recommended for children.

7. Rock Run Waterfall, Havre De Grace

• Location: Susquehanna State Park, Havre de Grace, Maryland
• Popularity: Popular
• Need to Know: Open year-round. Reservations are required, and there is a fee to enter the park.

You can view a pretty waterfall when you visit Susquehanna State Park in Harford County, Maryland. The Rock Run and Land of Promise Trail Loop is a short but scenic hike that offers great views of the falls. While you are visiting the park, be sure to check out the historic Rock Run Grist Mill. This waterfall cascades over an old stone wall that makes for some truly enchanting scenery.

Accessible Waterfalls in Maryland (Little or No Hiking Required)

Looking for waterfalls that don't entail a lot of hiking? Well, you're in luck. Magnificent views are just a short walk away from these two Maryland falls.

8. Daniels Dam, Ellicott City

• Location: Patapsco Valley State Park, Ellicott City, Maryland
• Popularity: Popular
• Need to Know: Open year-round. There is an entrance fee to enter the park.

Daniels Dam is one of the most accessible falls in the state of Maryland. A short walk from the parking lot will take you straight to the beautiful manmade fall. Located in the Patapsco Valley State Park in Ellicott City, this fall is a must-see when in the area, especially on a clear, sunny day. There are plenty of other nearby trails that you can stroll along to witness some of the stunning nature in the area. No matter whether you choose to visit the lookout or the trail, you won't regret it.

9. Cascade Falls, Halethorpe

• Location: Patapsco Valley State Park, Halethorpe, Maryland
• Popularity: Popular
• Need to Know: Open year-round. There is an entrance fee to enter the park.

Cascade Falls is another Patapsco Valley State Park waterfall hike that is great for families. Although the trail is not stroller-friendly, it is an easy quarter-mile walk to the falls. Located in the Avalon section of the park, this Central Maryland Fall is definitely worth a visit. You'll be surrounded by nature without having to trek along a challenging trail. Plus, it's a short ride to nearby towns and scenery that you can visit.

Best Waterfalls Near Baltimore

If you live in the Baltimore area, you're in luck: Several beautiful falls are located in or near the city. Take a look at the following three falls that are perfect for a little day trip or road trip throughout the state.

10. Round Falls, Baltimore

• Location: Baltimore, Maryland
• Popularity: Hidden gem
• Need to Know: Open year-round

Round Falls (also known as Horseshoe Falls) is one of the most hidden waterfalls in Maryland. This man-made fall can be found near Druid Hill Park. A short path takes you to a viewing platform where you can take in the pretty views of the cascade. Bonus: There are plenty of other beautiful sites at this park, including a massive greenhouse, winding trails, a playground, and historic structures, as well as the nearby Maryland Zoo.

11. Gunpowder Falls, Middle River

• Location: Gunpowder Falls State Park, Middle River, Maryland
• Popularity: Popular
• Need to Know: Open year-round. There is an entrance fee, and a reservation is required to enter the park.

Gunpowder Falls State Park, Maryland’s biggest state park, is located in both Baltimore County and Harford County. A visit here makes a wonderful day trip for waterfall chasers and lovers of nature. The park is full of hiking trails, swimming holes, a beach, and several waterfalls. The scenic Waterfall Trail along the Little Gunpowder trail system can be found in the central area of the park. It's one of the best hikes, not too far from the city, making it a great little escape.

12. Lake Roland, Baltimore

• Location: Lake Roland, Baltimore, Maryland
• Popularity: Popular
• Need to Know: It's open year-round.

You can find another beautiful hidden cascade at Lake Roland in Baltimore. Created from a dam and a stream, this fall is a pretty spot to visit. While you are at the park, be sure to check out the numerous hiking trails, nature center, and boating opportunities. There is also a playground for the kiddos, making it a great family-friendly and accessible spot for people of all ages. Even if you're not into waterfalls, there are several stunning sites to see.

Have you visited any of these Maryland waterfalls? Which one are you hoping to visit next? If you're already starting to plan your trip, consider using Only In Your State's itinerary planner for some of the best lodging, dining, and sightseeing attractions near the falls. You may discover must-see spots that are worth making your time into a full-blown weekend getaway!