There’s nothing quite as spectacular as hiking in Maryland. The Old Line State is brimming with natural beauty, and meandering down a forested trail is often the best way to soak in all in. Today’s feature destination belongs on every explorer’s bucket list: Cunningham Falls. It’s the tallest waterfall in Maryland, and it can be accessed via the eponymous Cunningham Falls Trail. Ready to get started? Let’s go!

Tucked away in the Catoctin Mountains near Thurmont, Maryland awaits one of the state's most stunning natural wonders: Cunningham Falls.
Elic Joseph / AllTrails
Today, we're headed to the William Houck Area of the park to explore the falls via a 5.1-mile loop called the Cunningham Falls Nature Trail.
Andrés R. Ortiz / AllTrails
It's the most popular trail in the entire park and for good reason. It boasts beautiful forest and mountain views as well as the chance to observe the tallest waterfall in the state.
Allison Wieczynski / AllTrails

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Hikers note that the trail is well-marked and well-maintained, although it can become slippery after rainfall. Be sure to wear appropriate shoes depending on the time of year that you visit.
Andrés R. Ortiz / AllTrails
The waterfall itself is 78 feet in length, and it's gorgeous in every season!
Lauren Cichock / AllTrails
Of course, water flow can vary depending on the time of year. Some have noted that the view of the waterfall can be a bit disappointing if water levels are low.
Kim Munshower / AllTrails
Fortunately, though, there is plenty of other scenery to admire along the way!
kari converse / AllTrails

Have you ever hiked Cunningham Falls Trail in Maryland? What did you think? Feel free to share your thoughts with us in the comments below — we would love to hear from you! For more information about the trail, including a helpful map and reviews from hikers, check out the AllTrails listing.

And for related content, be sure to read our list of the all-time best hikes in Maryland. There’s something for every kind of explorer out there!

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Featured Addresses
Cunningham Falls State Park, 14274 William Houck Dr, Thurmont, MD 21788, USA