Cunningham Falls Out-and-Back

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · River/Creek

This rolling path provides the shortest out-and-back hike to the largest waterfall in Maryland (with the exception of the Boardwalk Trail, which only provides ADA Accessible parking). This is a popular option for families and groups of all abilities and can be crowded on weekends or during nicer weather.

Visitors can be turned away when the park is at capacity during periods of high visitation (long weekends during the summer). Restrooms are closed during the winter.

Look for the red-blazed Lower Falls Trail from the main parking area to the west of Hunting Creek Lake. Head northwest as the trail gradually climbs through the woods passing interpretive trail signs that provide interesting pieces of information about the area.

After just over half a mile, the trail ends at the falls where chances are good you'll find other visitors enjoying the views and cooling off in the warmer months.

For groups looking to take a different, slightly more challenging trail back to the parking area, look for the Cliff Trail which heads right (south) gaining a bit more elevation through the trees.