I am not a fan of the cold BUT there are some things I appreciate about the chilly season. One of those things is frozen waterfalls. Sounds enchanting, and it really is. Read on to learn more about Maryland's frozen waterfalls and when temperatures drop below freezing this winter, grab your hat, scarf, gloves, and head outdoors for a one-of-a-kind frozen adventure.
Maryland has a handful of waterfalls that are perfect for a majestic, outdoorsy day trip.
Maryland's waterfalls are stunning. From the epic gorges of Great Falls National Park to the quieter mountain streams, there's something about discovering rushing water out in the wild that is totally captivating. And while these natural wonders are always worthy of a trek, it's refreshing when the destination is easy to get to. Cascade Falls in Patapsco Valley State Park is one such waterfall that can be reached in just a quarter of a mile, making it the perfect destination for families.
advertisement
Glenn Tan / AllTrails
Encompassing more than 16,000 stunning acres, Patapsco Valley State Park is a treasure trove of beauty located in central Maryland. With eight unique developed areas, it's one of the largest parks of its kind in the state. Hikers, bikers, nature enthusiasts, campers, and canoers alike will find an adventure here, but today, we're focused on one of the park's most family-friendly natural wonders: Cascade Falls.
To get to the waterfall, you'll park at the Orange Grove lot in the Avalon Area of the park. From there, visitors will take the Cascade Falls Trail, which will showcase the first waterfall in a series of cascades after just a quarter of a mile.
The Dog Safe / AllTrails
The terrain is slightly hilly, making it a fun challenge for even the littlest hikers in your crew. Please note that while the hike is considered easy, it's not paved. Those who wish to continue the adventure can keep hiking after the first waterfall; there are actually three in total.
Timothy Bongos / AllTrails
Each of the waterfalls features a shallow wading area that's perfect to splash around in when the weather calls for it. Make sure your little ones have a good pair of water shoes!
After enjoying Cascade Falls, you might want to venture to the park's famous swinging bridge, located in the same area as the waterfall trail. It offers a fascinating view of the river below, and you'll feel like quite an adventurer as you cross it!
Timothy Bongos / AllTrails
Looking for another place to take a dip? There's convenient river access from the parking lot; the Patapsco River runs right alongside it.
Know before you go: There's a small entrance fee to get into the park. Maryland residents will pay up to $3 and out-of-state residents will pay $5.
Have you visited Patapsco Valley State Park recently? Did you enjoy a waterfall hike or perhaps take a dip in one of the pools? Share your experiences with us below -- we would love to hear from you! For related content, you'll enjoy reading about these 10 hidden waterfalls in Maryland.
There's something so magical about natural wonders that are easy to access. It's almost as though they're hiding in plain sight! That's the case with Cunningham Falls, the tallest waterfall in Maryland, which can be reached via a short and sweet 1-mile trail. So lace up those hiking boots and come with us as we explore this treasured natural wonder in Maryland.
advertisement
Catoctin Mountain State Park is easily one of the most beautiful in the state, surrounded by the picturesque ridges of Catoctin Mountain.
There are a handful of trails that will lead you to the falls, but our favorite is the 1-mile trek that leads visitors to a beautiful observation platform.
At 78 feet, it's the tallest cascading waterfall in all of Maryland.
Cunningham Falls isn't exactly a hidden gem, but it is a Maryland natural wonder worth exploring. Have you ever hiked the short boardwalk trail? What did you think? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below -- we'd love to hear from you! And don't forget to take a look at our hiking essentials packing list before embarking on your adventure.
Looking for more inspiration? Check out our list of some of the very best hiking trails in Maryland. There really is something for everyone on the list!
