Love a good swimming hole? While all of Maryland's lakes are man-made, that doesn't make them any less beautiful or any less perfect for a dip. One such place is Hunting Creek Lake at Cunningham Falls State Park. Head here for a day among nature and cool off in one of the most scenic ways possible.
Cunningham Falls State Park is located in the town of Thurmont.
You can swim between Memorial Day and Labor Day and lifeguards will be on duty Tuesday through Sunday between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Try to arrive early because this spot can get crowded during summer.
Enjoy the lake, complete with a sandy bottom and surrounding mountain views. What better way to take in nature in one of Maryland's most outdoorsy areas?
The 5.4-Mile Hiking Trail in Maryland That Is a Fall Foliage Wonderland
Ready to embrace fall? Explore this Maryland hiking trail, filled with vibrant foliage and panoramic views - ideal for a weekend adventure with family and friends.
Are you searching for the perfect fall hiking trail in Maryland? Look no further than the Black Locust Trail in Gambrill State Park. This challenging yet rewarding 5.4-mile moderate loop is nestled in the scenic Catoctin Mountains, specifically in the beautiful High Knob area. As you hike, you’ll enjoy crisp autumn air, vibrant foliage, and breathtaking views that will inspire you to lace up your hiking boots and fully immerse yourself in nature’s seasonal beauty.
Your journey begins at the trailhead parking lot on Gambrill Park Road, where the forest greets you with a refreshing chill, hinting at the adventure ahead.
As you set off, the black blazes will guide you through towering oaks and vibrant poplars. Their leaves shine in gorgeous shades of gold and crimson—my favorite fall colors! With each step, you’ll catch the rich, earthy scent of the forest floor and hear the satisfying crunch of leaves beneath your feet as you venture deeper into the woods.
Expect a mix of varied terrain that keeps your hike interesting. Rocky sections and steep inclines will get your heart pumping, but the effort is absolutely worth it. You’ll be rewarded with multiple panoramic overlooks that offer sweeping views of Frederick to the east and Middletown Valley to the west. These scenic spots are perfect for taking a breather, snapping photos, and soaking in the incredible scenery.
If you’re looking for even more adventure, consider connecting to other trails in Gambrill State Park, such as the Catoctin Trail, to extend your hike.
Before you head out, keep a few things in mind. There’s a small parking fee, so be sure to have some change ready. The parking lot can fill up quickly, especially on weekends, so arriving early is a smart move. Don’t worry about bathroom breaks; there’s a porta-potty at the parking lot and a restroom near the Tea Room. Just remember to wrap up your hike before sunset, as all trails in Gambrill State Park close at that time.
In short, the Black Locust Trail is your gateway to experiencing the magic of fall hiking in Maryland. From the vibrant foliage to the stunning views, this trail promises an unforgettable autumn adventure.
Here’s a tip: mark your calendars for spring. The Mountain Laurel will be in full bloom, giving you yet another reason to return after the fall colors have faded. Gather your family and friends, and get ready to explore this beautiful slice of nature.
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For more information and updates, check out the official website of Gambrill State Park and the Facebook page of MD State Parks. To visit, head to Gambrill State Park at 8602 Gambrill Park Rd., Frederick, MD, 21702. The trailhead is conveniently located on the east side of the main parking lot off Gambrill Park Road.
Need more inspiration for things to do in the fall? Read all about the best fall festivals in Maryland that will put you in the autumnal spirit.
Maryland's waterfalls are stunning. From the epic gorges of Great Falls National Park to the quieter mountain streams, there's something about discovering rushing water out in the wild that is totally captivating. And while these natural wonders are always worthy of a trek, it's refreshing when the destination is easy to get to. Cascade Falls in Patapsco Valley State Park is one such waterfall that can be reached in just a quarter of a mile, making it the perfect destination for families.
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Glenn Tan / AllTrails
Encompassing more than 16,000 stunning acres, Patapsco Valley State Park is a treasure trove of beauty located in central Maryland. With eight unique developed areas, it's one of the largest parks of its kind in the state. Hikers, bikers, nature enthusiasts, campers, and canoers alike will find an adventure here, but today, we're focused on one of the park's most family-friendly natural wonders: Cascade Falls.
To get to the waterfall, you'll park at the Orange Grove lot in the Avalon Area of the park. From there, visitors will take the Cascade Falls Trail, which will showcase the first waterfall in a series of cascades after just a quarter of a mile.
The Dog Safe / AllTrails
The terrain is slightly hilly, making it a fun challenge for even the littlest hikers in your crew. Please note that while the hike is considered easy, it's not paved. Those who wish to continue the adventure can keep hiking after the first waterfall; there are actually three in total.
Timothy Bongos / AllTrails
Each of the waterfalls features a shallow wading area that's perfect to splash around in when the weather calls for it. Make sure your little ones have a good pair of water shoes!
After enjoying Cascade Falls, you might want to venture to the park's famous swinging bridge, located in the same area as the waterfall trail. It offers a fascinating view of the river below, and you'll feel like quite an adventurer as you cross it!
Timothy Bongos / AllTrails
Looking for another place to take a dip? There's convenient river access from the parking lot; the Patapsco River runs right alongside it.
Know before you go: There's a small entrance fee to get into the park. Maryland residents will pay up to $3 and out-of-state residents will pay $5.
Have you visited Patapsco Valley State Park recently? Did you enjoy a waterfall hike or perhaps take a dip in one of the pools? Share your experiences with us below -- we would love to hear from you! For related content, you'll enjoy reading about these 10 hidden waterfalls in Maryland.
