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.

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 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.

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!

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.