Maryland is full of beautiful trails, to the point where if you closed your eyes and pointed to a map, you’d probably land somewhere gorgeous. We love our stunning trails, and this section of Patapsco Valley State Park is more than we could hope for. This easy trail just might be one of the best hikes in Maryland. Come take a look for yourself!
Today’s wonder is none other than Cascade Falls Trail. Though you can guess from the name, this short and beautiful hike has a waterfall we think everyone in Maryland should see in person.
Daphne Allison/AllTrails
This 2.1 mile out-and-back path is only part of a multiple-trail system here, but we are really here for the waterfall anyways. If you don’t have the stamina for the areas of the park, that’s fine with us.
Evan Walls/AllTrails
Though the water level changes with the seasons, we think this waterfall is beautiful anytime of year. It’s also our favorite place to relax and just let the sound of the water wash through us.
Jason Kenosky/AllTrails
Along the way, you’ll find wildlife in every shape and color, including quite a few types of mushrooms we think are too cute not to stop by. Just remember to look and don’t touch!
R. B. Bordbar/AllTrails
In the fall, the trail is surrounded by yellow, red, and orange leaves that turn everything, including the sunlight, from green to gold. If you love taking photos in the golden hour, imagine if all day was the golden hour!
Carol Nathan/AllTrails
In the winter, the waterfall freezes into a beautiful icy statue. It’s never not a beauty.
Micah Eckhaus/AllTrails
Dogs are allowed on the trail, but must be kept on a leash. There is a $5 fee for the trail, but we think keeping the trail clean and maintained is well worth it.
John Beatty/AllTrails
Do you agree that this is one of the best hikes in Maryland? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below! If you’d like to read reviews, updates on trail quality, or follow the route up close, you’ll want to check out the Cascade Falls Trail page on AllTrails.
Daphne Allison/AllTrails
Evan Walls/AllTrails
Jason Kenosky/AllTrails
R. B. Bordbar/AllTrails
Carol Nathan/AllTrails
Micah Eckhaus/AllTrails
John Beatty/AllTrails
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The OIYS Visitor Center
best hikes in Maryland April 22, 2022 Beth C. What are the most scenic hiking trails in Maryland? As we’ve mentioned in the article above, Maryland is positively brimming with beautiful outdoor spaces. And the best part of all? Many of Maryland’s most gorgeous hiking trails are also pretty easy. We’ve put together a list of low-key hikes with amazing pay-offs, and you’ll want to tackle every trail. At the top of the list is Swallow Falls State Park, a must-see destination in western Maryland that features a rustic trail traveling between Muddy Creek Falls and Swallow Falls. For waterfall lovers, this trail is a must! Next up is Calvert Cliffs State Park. Take the Red Trail, and you’ll reach the dramatic cliffs in just 1.8 miles. When you reach the beach, you’ll be able to search for fossils! Patapsco Valley State Park features a half-mile trail leading to another beautiful Maryland waterfall known as Cascade Falls. Some other amazing hiking destinations in Maryland include Flag Ponds Nature Park, Rocks State Park, Terrapin Nature Park, and Washington Monument State Park. Learn more about these picturesque places to go hiking in Maryland. Does Maryland have any natural wonders? Absolutely! No matter which region of Maryland you’re visiting, you’ll likely discover a natural wonder isn’t too far away. One of our top recommendations would be the iconic Chesapeake Bay. It’s hard to imagine Maryland without the Bay, and there’s so much to explore along its shores. Next up is Assateague Island, which is home to majestic wild ponies and white sandy beaches. For nature and wildlife enthusiasts, you can hardly do better than this Eastern Shore gem. Other must-see wonders in Maryland include Crystal Grottoes Caverns, Calvert Cliffs, and Cunningham Falls. Learn more about the most beautiful wonders in Maryland.
The OIYS Visitor Center
best hikes in Maryland
April 22, 2022
Beth C.
What are the most scenic hiking trails in Maryland? As we’ve mentioned in the article above, Maryland is positively brimming with beautiful outdoor spaces. And the best part of all? Many of Maryland’s most gorgeous hiking trails are also pretty easy. We’ve put together a list of low-key hikes with amazing pay-offs, and you’ll want to tackle every trail. At the top of the list is Swallow Falls State Park, a must-see destination in western Maryland that features a rustic trail traveling between Muddy Creek Falls and Swallow Falls. For waterfall lovers, this trail is a must! Next up is Calvert Cliffs State Park. Take the Red Trail, and you’ll reach the dramatic cliffs in just 1.8 miles. When you reach the beach, you’ll be able to search for fossils! Patapsco Valley State Park features a half-mile trail leading to another beautiful Maryland waterfall known as Cascade Falls. Some other amazing hiking destinations in Maryland include Flag Ponds Nature Park, Rocks State Park, Terrapin Nature Park, and Washington Monument State Park. Learn more about these picturesque places to go hiking in Maryland. Does Maryland have any natural wonders? Absolutely! No matter which region of Maryland you’re visiting, you’ll likely discover a natural wonder isn’t too far away. One of our top recommendations would be the iconic Chesapeake Bay. It’s hard to imagine Maryland without the Bay, and there’s so much to explore along its shores. Next up is Assateague Island, which is home to majestic wild ponies and white sandy beaches. For nature and wildlife enthusiasts, you can hardly do better than this Eastern Shore gem. Other must-see wonders in Maryland include Crystal Grottoes Caverns, Calvert Cliffs, and Cunningham Falls. Learn more about the most beautiful wonders in Maryland.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
As we’ve mentioned in the article above, Maryland is positively brimming with beautiful outdoor spaces. And the best part of all? Many of Maryland’s most gorgeous hiking trails are also pretty easy. We’ve put together a list of low-key hikes with amazing pay-offs, and you’ll want to tackle every trail. At the top of the list is Swallow Falls State Park, a must-see destination in western Maryland that features a rustic trail traveling between Muddy Creek Falls and Swallow Falls. For waterfall lovers, this trail is a must! Next up is Calvert Cliffs State Park. Take the Red Trail, and you’ll reach the dramatic cliffs in just 1.8 miles. When you reach the beach, you’ll be able to search for fossils! Patapsco Valley State Park features a half-mile trail leading to another beautiful Maryland waterfall known as Cascade Falls. Some other amazing hiking destinations in Maryland include Flag Ponds Nature Park, Rocks State Park, Terrapin Nature Park, and Washington Monument State Park. Learn more about these picturesque places to go hiking in Maryland.
Does Maryland have any natural wonders?
Absolutely! No matter which region of Maryland you’re visiting, you’ll likely discover a natural wonder isn’t too far away. One of our top recommendations would be the iconic Chesapeake Bay. It’s hard to imagine Maryland without the Bay, and there’s so much to explore along its shores. Next up is Assateague Island, which is home to majestic wild ponies and white sandy beaches. For nature and wildlife enthusiasts, you can hardly do better than this Eastern Shore gem. Other must-see wonders in Maryland include Crystal Grottoes Caverns, Calvert Cliffs, and Cunningham Falls. Learn more about the most beautiful wonders in Maryland.
