City life is certainly exciting and busy, but does it ever start to feel a bit routine? Next time you’re craving a nature-infused adventure, check out some of these great 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
Patapsco Valley State Park, Woodstock, MD 21163, USA
Flickr / Bart
This natural wonder is located at Patapsco Valley State Park. With over 30,000 acres of park, there's a lot to explore here! The park covers parts of Baltimore and Howard Counties. It's just a 25-minute drive from Baltimore City and it's the perfect spot for a hike. The trail to the waterfall is short and sweet, making it definitely worth your while if you're looking for Baltimore hiking trails with waterfalls.
2. Gunpowder Falls at Gunpowder Falls State Park
Gunpowder Falls State Park Hammerman Area, 7200 Graces Quarters Rd, Middle River, MD 21220, USA
Flickr / Phil Romans
Drive just half an hour and you'll find Gunpowder Falls State Park. This one lies in Baltimore County and Harford County and it's a great park that has one of our favorite lazy rivers in Baltimore. Since the Gunpowder River flows through most of the park, you'll spot tons of waterfalls and gentle rapids throughout your journey, whether you're in a tube or on solid ground.

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3. Kilgore Falls at Rocks State Park
Rocks State Park, 3318 Rocks Chrome Hill Rd, Jarrettsville, MD 21084, USA
Flickr / Mark S
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 make the most of 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!
4. Great Falls in Potomac
Great Falls, Potomac, MD 20854, USA
Flickr / mebrett
The mighty Potomac River flows through this majestic spot, where one side is Maryland and the other in Virginia. The drive to get here from Baltimore takes about an hour. These are some roaring rapids and they're even more impressive after a heavy rainfall. This is one of the most beautiful places in Maryland (and Virginia).
5. Cunningham Falls at Cunningham Falls State Park
Cunningham Falls State Park, 14274 William Houck Dr, Thurmont, MD 21788, USA
Flickr / Chesapeake Bay Program
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 up the rocks here and have a seat while watching the water rush past you. This is a great 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? Any others you’d recommend? There are plenty of waterfalls in Maryland, so get out there and explore!

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More to Explore

Waterfalls Near Baltimore

Lisa Sammons | April 14, 2022

What are some more great waterfalls near me in Maryland?

For some great waterfalls in Maryland, take the Ultimate Maryland Waterfall Road Trip and check out eight waterfalls with just six hours of driving.

What are some of the best parks around Baltimore?

Some of the best parks around Baltimore include Matthew Henson State Park with its unique raised boardwalks that are accessible and great for the whole family. Point Lookout State Park is great as well, and the former prison there offers tours. Check out this article on state parks around Baltimore for more.

What are some good day trips around Baltimore?

There are many things to do around Baltimore that make a good day trip. For example, Harriet Tubman Byway is fantastic. This road will take you to several stops on the Underground Railroad, so it's educational as well as interesting.

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