Spring Hike to Cascade Falls at Patapsco Valley State Park in Maryland

Spring Hike to Cascade Falls at Patapsco Valley State Park in Maryland

Our spring road trip waterfall hunting continued into Maryland. We were centered in the Annapolis area for a bit and discovered Cascade Falls in Patapsco Valley State Park about 40-45 minutes away. Patapsco Valley State Park contains 16,043 acres of preserve, so it is rather massive. Given the large size of the preserve, you do want to make sure you are heading to the Cascade Falls Loop Trail to see the falls. There are two spots that I know of to access the trail. We ended up parking on the side of Landing Road to access the trail. There is a parking lot on the other side as well. However, we did like the hike from Landing Road. I wouldn't have changed our hike for the day! Just nature bliss!

The spring sun warmed the barren forest at Cascade Falls.

Hiking the Trail:

At first, the trail is fairly easy. Later, it gets rockier and steeper while not hugely difficult. While rather barren this time of year, the woods lit up with the golden spring sun. Our hike was two weeks ago, so I am sure some hints of green have filled in!

There are areas that are laid out to cross the stream. Other areas, you may have to navigate by fording the stream across rocks. So, take your time.

Taking a moment to pause along the meandering stream.

Eventually, we hit a stretch of the trail where we had to start working our way up. Some spots got a little narrow as well.

Magnificent rock landscape.

Taking in the Falls:

We paused at our first real glimpse of Cascade Falls. Then, we climbed down for a better peek.

First glimpse of Cascade Falls.

Waterfalls always provide for a picturesque point for introspection and gratitude. We spent sometime catching our breath and savoring views of stunning Cascade Falls.

If you hike the entire loop, it is 3 miles. Our daughter was a bit tired, so we headed back instead of completing the loop. The hike was just what we needed to enjoy peaceful exploration of nature. I could not have asked for a better hike for one of our first of spring!

**Disclosure: No compensation was received for this post. All opinions are 100% my own.