Easy, great with kids and beautiful falls! Beautiful, well maintained, and heavily trafficked. The Cliff Trail is much more strenuous. This past weekend I explored the backwoods of Thurmont, MD, at Catoctin State Park. Start of Lower Falls Trail. There’s two trail heads in the parking area, and the other trail head is the Cliff Trail. Except for sandy portion of swimming beach area, pets are allowed in lake and all day use areas after Labor Day 2011 to Memorial Day weekend 2012. Cliff Trail – Lower Trail Loop (Cunningham Falls State Park, MD) Posted on May 12, 2016 by Andrew Wojtanik. Cunningham Falls Loop MN 10.8°W 5/10/16 50 0 50 100 150 M 200 0.05 0 0.05 MI 0.1 Scale 1:3477 Datum WGS84 Distance from start (mi) 0.0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0 1.2 I'll definitely come back in winter after few inches of snow. Cunningham Falls Trails. We decided to explore several area inside the park. It is divided into two separate but unique areas. Cunningham Falls is very kid friendly, and easy for families with babies and toddlers. This trail terminates at the Falls. Be the first to share your experience. Great for kids. ... and we set off on the "lower trail" to the falls, which was the easier of the two routes. The lower trail is fairly level and easy. We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. If you visit Cunningham Falls State Park in the summer months, I would highly recommend visiting during the week because there is a very popular beach co-located with the trail to the waterfall. Outdoor activity is everywhere at Cunningham Falls State Park. Trail distance: 1.5 miles. Cunningham Falls is lovely year-round though. Easy Hike. If native wildlife is on your wish list, Cunningham Falls delivers with a healthy population of black bears, as well as reptiles, birds and other Catoctin Mountain species. The best place to park is on Catoctin Hollow Road in the parking lot that's on the same side of the road as the lake. Because I needed to go to Thurmont today, I decided that a Monday morning in March would be a good time to visit the falls. Interpretive signs and benches along the way. There are two trails you can take to Cunningham Falls, the Cliff Trail (yellow marker/blaze) and the Lower Trail (red marker/blaze). While you won’t want to bring a stroller, you can easily walk along the Lower Trail to see Cunningham Falls. Head west along the lower contours across from Catoctin Mountain to the largest waterfall in Maryland. From the tropical derecho the area experienced a couple weeks ago, the falls were gushing with cool water. I trekked up to the top to enjoy the cool water but be sure to take your time coming down. The trail ended at the scenic Cunningham Falls. The wheelchair and stroller friendly Boardwalk Trail starts from a different parking lot and can be viewed on its own trail page here: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/maryland/cunningham-falls-boardwalk-trail-accessible, Maryland Office of Tourism Development, Redwood Tower, 9th Floor, 217 E. Redwood Street , Baltimore, MD, 21202, Phone: 410-767-3400, Fax: 410-333-6643. Cunningham Falls is lovely year-round though. Leisure opportunities like swimming, hiking, fishing and canoeing are available. Because I needed to go to Thurmont today, I decided that a Monday morning in March would be a good time to visit the falls. Cunningham Falls State Park Campground Trail--orange blaze (3/4 mile) This strenuous trail gives campers access to the Cliff Trail. Thurmont, MD Easy/Intermediate. This park is approximately 8 square miles in area and contains over 25 miles of trails, some breath-taking views, and, yes, a little bit of history. Our RECORDING today totaled out to about 3 point 7 miles. The Lower Falls Trail is a short easy hike through a wooded area of the park. The Cliff trail is very rocky and it is very easy to turn an ankle, so take your time and be sure of your footing. The short, moderately flat trail runs alongside numerous boulder problems en route to the falls. If you have dogs who aren’t into crowds, I’d … There was some mud/icy spots on the cliff part of the trail and some rock scrambling was necessary but otherwise decent conditions. Parking at the Camp Office for hiking is not permitted April through October. Cunningham Falls State Park is BUSY. Dry and cold, the cliff trail was a good challenge. Many beach-goers walked from the beach to do the hike as well. Trail Run Project is built by runners like you. Virtual Tour of Cunningham Falls Out-and-Back. But we had a blast climbing the rocks on the cliff trail! Though Maryland’s tallest, the falls does not drop in one free-fall but rather a series of cascades 10-20 feet high, separated by small pools. Besides hiking, the area is also popular for swimming, fishing, boating, and picnicking at Huntington Creek Lake nearby. Above the large beach lot is a smaller parking lot at the trail head for Cunningham Falls. While you won’t want to bring a stroller, you can easily walk along the Lower Trail to see Cunningham Falls. North is quite rocky... big rocks up and down, but not a soul on it. The Lower Trail (1/2 mile) and the Cliff Trail (3/4 mile). Except for sandy portion of swimming beach area, pets are allowed in lake and all day use areas after Labor Day 2011 to Memorial Day weekend 2012. Cunningham Falls is very kid friendly, and easy for families with babies and toddlers. The upper trail parallels the lower trail a couple hundred feet above it, and rejoins the lower trail at the two mile point. We parked in a small parking lot and decided to hike to the falls. Near Thurmont, Maryland. Cunningham Falls. The main attraction at Cunningham Falls State Park is its namesake 78-foot cascading waterfall, the largest in the state. It's definitely one of the most picturesque parks I've visited, especially this time of Easy/Intermediate. I mean busier than any park we’ve ever visited.. On every trail we hiked, we encountered families with lots of children, entire boy scout troops, even bachelorette parties – it was crazy busy!. The Lower Trail to Cunningham Falls follows a ravine up from the Hunting Creek Lake of Cunningham Falls State Park. While scenic, I would recommend them if you are in the area or a waterfall lover. Travel about a mile turning right into the William Houck Area. Just follow the signs from Route 77. Hotels near Cunningham Falls State Park; Hotels near Catoctin Wildlife Preserve; Hotels near Catoctin Mountain Park; Hotels near Catoctin Mountain Orchard; Hotels near Catoctin Furnace; Hotels near Loy's Station Covered Bridge; Hotels near Pryor's Orchard; Hotels near Roddy Road Covered Bridge; Near Airports. Park in the Cunningham Falls parking lot off William Houck Drive. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/maryland/cunningham-falls-lower-trail Check the website for more information. - All of the trail surfaces was fairly hard due to it being earlier, cold and cloudy all day. The upper trail parallels the lower trail a couple hundred feet above it, and rejoins the lower trail at the two mile point. There is an old wooden bin at the entrance (no staff in the booth and no entrance lever) to drop in cash for the entrance fee, which is on an honor system. Houck Area - Pets are allowed in Bear Branch and Addison Run camp loops. To reach Cunningham Falls, there are two choices; Lower Trail, which is a relatively easy 1-mile hike out-and-back hike, or Cliff Trail, a rockier, more technical path with a … The easy out-and-back half-mile Lower Trail from the lake leads to the falls. The park was not crowded and there was no admission charge. (One trail to the Falls and the other back to the car) The age and skill level of your children will probably help you decide which trail to take. Each are beautiful, but if you want more of a challenge head up Cliff Trail to do a little rock climbing (optional) and scrambling through rougher terrain to get to this cascading waterfall. Trail distance: 1.5 miles. Travel past the campground road to reach trailhead parking in about 0.5 mile. The park was not crowded and there was no admission charge. Learn More. He served as that state s fourteenth Secretary of State, serving Championships 2018: Dominick Cunningham wins gold as Max … Towards the end the trail you will cross the street and at this point you will be entering Cunningham Falls State Park. The state park is the home of Cunningham Thomas Jefferson Cunningham 1852 1941 was a politician from the U.S. state of Wisconsin. Fun rocky climb - but make sure you hike in the loop in the recommended direction - counterclockwise. The Cunningham Loop Trail #316 is made up of an upper trail, and a longer lower trail. Maryland? If you don’t feel like walking the trail back, the road is a nice alternative. Being February there were still some icy patches on the trail but adults and children alike were still able to make the trip to the falls. The south trail is lovely.. winds through the woods on semi flat trail and end up crossing the road into Cunningham park, and if you go further you end up on the main road. The Boardwalk Trail provides access for wheelchairs. Cunningham Falls State Park in Maryland holds a 78 foot waterfall called Cunningham Falls or McAfee Falls which is the largest cascading waterfall in Maryland. The Cunningham Loop Trail #316 is made up of an upper trail, and a longer lower trail. Both of these trails begin near Hunting Creek Lake. name: Catoctin Mountain Park & Cunningham Falls loop type: loop distance: 8.8 miles elevation change: 1793 ft ascent and descent time: 3:30 hours moving (4:15 hours total time) location: Catoctin Mountain Park, near Thurmont (direction to … Each are beautiful, but if you want more of a challenge head up Cliff Trail to do a little rock climbing (optional) and scrambling through rougher terrain to get to this cascading waterfall. Thurmont, MD 5 0.6 mi 1.0 km #2 Lower Falls Trail. NOTE: As of April 2020, the accessible boardwalk trail at the base of the falls is closed until further notice. Houck Area - Pets are allowed in Bear Branch and Addison Run camp loops. Cunningham Falls State Park. Find hikes, backpacking, photo spots, and more around Smithsburg. The Lower Trail to Cunningham Falls follows a ravine up from the Hunting Creek Lake of Cunningham Falls State Park. Cunningham Falls, Maryland’s tallest, is the focal park of the state park bearing its name, but there are plenty of other worth destinations in this 6,000-acre wilderness a short striking distance from Frederick, Maryland.Cat Rock offers nice, albeit not fantastic, views of the surrounding Catoctin Mountains, but the real gem is the “rock” itself: a towering jumble of … If you’d like an easy walk to the falls, be sure to enter the trail head for the Lower Trail. Our hiking day included 4 different trails which were all quite easy. Cunningham Falls Lower Trail and Cliff Trail Loop is a 1.1 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Thurmont, Maryland that features a waterfall and is good for all skill levels. Each photo and review that you add on The Outbound earns you points towards rewards, free gear, and access to exclusive discounts. The park is clean and the lower trail to the falls was a nice hike. There are six interpretive nature signs along the way that make the hike more interesting. I hiked the Lower Falls Trail to the falls and then hooked onto the Cliff Trail, which took me back to the parking lot. Cunningham Falls State Park. This trail ends at the base of a beautiful 78-foot waterfall. The trail is well maintained and pretty wide at some spots. Virtual Tour of Cunningham Falls Out-and-Back. Look for the red-blazed Lower Falls Trail from the main parking area to the west of Hunting Creek Lake. The route follows an abandoned road, which is being reclaimed by the forest, and contours around the slopes of Mt. Trails in Cunningham Falls State Park - 8. information. Graham itself. over 4 years ago. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Cunningham Falls Trails. Swimming is prohibited and the face of the falls is slippery but both times we came it was packed with people. Ranges from an easy walk to a challenging uphill hike, but the beautiful vistas make it well worth the effort. The rocks would have been annoying to descend. To lengthen the adventure, Hunting Creek Lake is close by for swimming, or you can continue your hike by taking Old Misery Trail for great views of the area. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your Look for the red-blazed Lower Falls Trail from the main parking area to the west of Hunting Creek Lake. There are two different trails that you can take to get to the falls, the cliff trail and the lower trail. ... and we set off on the "lower trail" to the falls, which was the easier of the two routes. - Winter is the best time to visit this area. ... •Lower Trail--red blaze (one half mile) This easy to moderate trail is the shortest and easiest access to the Falls. We decided to explore several area inside the park. You can view the falls from a boardwalk or climb up the rocks on the right side of the falls. We parked in a small parking lot and decided to hike to the falls. This 8.6 mile loop trail in Catoctin Mountain Park is good for both hikers and trail runners. The park is clean and the lower trail to the falls was a nice hike. This loop is a combination of all of the three major loops in the Catoctin Mountain Park, totaling 8 miles and including Cunningham Falls, Hog Rock, Blue Ridge Summit, Thurmont Vista, Wolf Rock, and Chimney Rock. The trail is primarily used for hiking and walking and is accessible year-round. As of noon on Saturday there is still plenty of parking as well. You can view the falls from a boardwalk or climb up the rocks on the right side of the falls. Part of the Catoctin Mountains, the falls were shaped by past geological processes, which was certainly a site to see. Known bouldering areas are along the Lower Trail and Cliff Trail from the Houck area to the park's eponymous falls, but outcroppings and boulders beckon from deeper in the woods. We parked in a small parking lot and decided to hike to the falls. Lower Trail (0.5 miles) leads directly to the falls, whereas Cliff Trail (0.75 miles) has slightly more difficult terrain and takes you to a viewing platform. Cunningham Falls. This trail terminates at the Falls. There is a nice deck with benches to sit on at the bottom of the falls or you can pick up the trail to the upper portion of the falls while here. Not good for bad knees. Thurmont, MD Intermediate. Second half more moderate with some scrambling up boulders. Went here twice this summer to cool off. The last 0.2 of a mile are on a boardwalk and lead to a small viewing platform. The Lower Falls Trail is a short easy hike through a wooded area of the park. This is a new adventure! Return to the lake by this trail or Lower Trail. The short, moderately flat trail runs alongside numerous boulder problems en route to the falls. Take to the woods and hike to a serene waterfall in Cunningham Falls State Park--this short loop is great for all ages. Crowded hike even on a Tuesday afternoon. Graham itself. Cunningham Falls State Park is located in the picturesque Catoctin Mountains. The trail is well-defined. The Outbound works best with JavaScript enabled. The lower trail is very family friendly and an easy path to follow. The clocks had gone back a couple of days before my visit, so I decided to take the quickest trail to Cunningham Falls – the Lower Falls Trail – as that was only half a mile long. Intersects with the catoctin trail, which runs for like 10 miles but connects you to other trails, we parked near the lake. The park was not crowded and there was no admission charge. But beautiful trail! Cunningham Falls is an easy drive from 270 and has plenty of parking along the main road and various pockets of parking as you approach the main entrance for the falls. - It's a lot less crowded. Known bouldering areas are along the Lower Trail and Cliff Trail from the Houck area to the park's eponymous falls, but outcroppings and boulders beckon from deeper in the woods. This park is approximately 8 square miles in area and contains over 25 miles of trails, some breath-taking views, and, yes, a little bit of history. If you’d like an easy walk to the falls, be sure to enter the trail head for the Lower Trail. We visited the Cunningham Falls State Park on a weekday in Mid-September. The tr... Chimney Rock is the quintessential breathtaking view that makes a hike worthwhile. I hiked the Lower Falls Trail to the falls and then hooked onto the Cliff Trail, which took me back to the parking lot. You'll likely see many types of birds and small wildlife along the trail, as there are undisturbed native plants and trees. The lower trail is very family friendly and an easy path to follow. The Lower Trail (1/2 mile) and the Cliff Trail (3/4 mile). There is an old wooden bin at the entrance (no staff in the booth and no entrance lever) to drop in cash for the entrance fee, which is on an honor system. Cunningham Falls State Park is a public recreation area located west of Thurmont, Maryland, in the United States. If you visit Cunningham Falls State Park in the summer months, I would highly recommend visiting during the week because there is a very popular beach co-located with the trail to the waterfall. Cunningham Falls tumbles over the bedrock Hiking to Cunningham Falls. adventures and follow local regulations. The Cunningham Falls State Park trail system varies in terrain from short, flat hikes to steep and rocky ascents that will challenge even the experienced hiker. The falls loop is super busy with lots of kiddos and doggos. Hotels near (IAD) Dulles Intl Airport 2.6 mi 4.2 km #1 Cat Rock Trail. Thurmont, MD 8 1.3 mi 2.1 km #3 Falls Nature Trail. The main attraction at Cunningham Falls State Park is its namesake 78-foot cascading waterfall, the largest in the state. Except Lower Trail to the Cunningham Falls, Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, pets are allowed on all trails. We decided to explore several area inside the park. Cunningham Falls and Lower Trail. Plus it is also next to Catoctin Mountain National Park which I had to skip as it was getting late but Catoctin has a hike to a Furnace and both parks would be a great day trip. It is divided into two separate but unique areas. The last 0.2 of a mile are on a boardwalk and lead to a small viewing platform. To reach Cunningham Falls, there are two choices; Lower Trail, which is a relatively easy 1-mile hike out-and-back hike, or Cliff Trail, a rockier, more technical path with a higher elevation that is about 1.5 miles out and back. There are two trails you can take to Cunningham Falls, the Cliff Trail (yellow marker/blaze) and the Lower Trail (red marker/blaze). Return to the lake by this trail or Lower Trail. Many beach-goers walked from the beach to do the hike as well. Cunningham Falls is an easy drive from 270 and has plenty of parking along the main road and various pockets of parking as you approach the main entrance for the falls. The route follows an abandoned road, which is being reclaimed by the forest, and contours around the slopes of Mt. We visited the Cunningham Falls State Park on a weekday in Mid-September. The William Houck Area, located three miles west of Thurmont on Route 77, has the lake area, falls and camping area. Did this quick and easy hike after Chimney Rock hike. Cliff Trail--yellow blaze (3/4 mile) Rough terrain offers strenuous hiking past rock outcrops that lead to the Falls. There is a nice deck with benches to sit on at the bottom of the falls or you can pick up the trail to the upper portion of the falls while here. The clocks had gone back a couple of days before my visit, so I decided to take the quickest trail to Cunningham Falls – the Lower Falls Trail – as that was only half a mile long. Yes, this is a hike report about a local Maryland hike as we start to transition to the D.C. area. Towards the end the trail you will cross the street and at this point you will be entering Cunningham Falls State Park. Hike the Catoctin Mountain Extended Loop Trail, Hike Chimney Rock at Catoctin Mountain Park. There's also two trails to get to Cunningham Falls, one is easy (the Lower trail), the other (Cliff Trail) is more strenuous- so you can take it easy on the way to or from the falls. If you want you can make it a loop and take both trails. The signs stated that it was a 1/2 mile hike to the falls for a total round trip of one mile. Just a short way away is the trailhead (see map). Leisure opportunities like swimming, hiking, fishing and canoeing are available. If you want you can make it a loop and take both trails. Cliff Trail--yellow blaze (3/4 mile) Rough terrain offers strenuous hiking past rock outcrops that lead to the Falls. Lower Falls Trail. Cunningham Falls Lower Trail and Cliff Trail Loop, https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/maryland/cunningham-falls-boardwalk-trail-accessible. A nice hike. Head northwest as the trail gradually climbs through the woods passing interpretive trail signs that provide interesting pieces of information about the area. The lake was frozen but it was neat to see how the frozen water meets the sand. Took a trip here on a spring-like day in February. Outdoor activity is everywhere at Cunningham Falls State Park. Hike the Cunningham Falls Lower Trail. This 78-foot waterfall, among the largest in the state, is easily accessible by two short trails. The waterfall was small due to lack of rain. Near Thurmont, Maryland. The trail to the falls is very straightforward, but there are red trail blazes along the way just in case. You reach the Falls on a boardwalk. Cunningham Falls State Park: Park at the gravel lot on Catoctin Hollow Road, in the William Houck Area or in the Manor Area. Cunningham Falls State Park is located in the picturesque Catoctin Mountains. Cunningham Falls State Park is in the Catoctin Mountains near Thurmont, Maryland. We visited the Cunningham Falls State Park on a weekday in Mid-September. Above the large beach lot is a smaller parking lot at the trail head for Cunningham Falls. First half was easy. William Houck Area Trails. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/maryland/cunningham-falls-upper-trail The trail is well maintained and pretty wide at some spots. The lower Falls trail is just under 3 miles round trip and not overly eventful on it's way to the falls. There’s two trail heads in the parking area, and the other trail head is the Cliff Trail. You can also create your own loop by hiking the cliff trail to the falls and the lower trail back. They both leave from the parking lot near the entrance to the park. Intermediate. The stream with rocks covered in snow will make it beautiful. Great little loop to take grandkids to!!! You'll likely see many types of birds and small wildlife along the trail, as there are undisturbed native plants and trees. The 1.2 mile loop is great for families and is dog-friendly. Search campgrounds, glamping, and hotels near Smithsburg. Cunningham Falls Loop MN 10.8°W 5/10/16 50 0 50 100 150 M 200 0.05 0 0.05 MI 0.1 Scale 1:3477 Datum WGS84 Distance from start (mi) 0.0 0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0 1.2 Lower Trail (0.5 miles) leads directly to the falls, whereas Cliff Trail (0.75 miles) has slightly more difficult terrain and takes you to a viewing platform. The Boardwalk Trail provides access for wheelchairs. To lengthen the adventure, Hunting Creek Lake is close by for swimming, or you can continue your hike by taking Old Misery Trail for great views of the area. Head northwest as the trail gradually climbs through the woods passing interpretive trail signs that provide interesting pieces of information about the area. The pool at the bottom went about chest high right in the middle but don't jump unless you want to get hurt. Being February there were still some icy patches on the trail but adults and children alike were still able to make the trip to the falls. A short scenic hike. Cunningham Falls State Park Campground Trail--orange blaze (3/4 mile) This strenuous trail gives campers access to the Cliff Trail. Mainly to photograph the waterfalls. There are six interpretive nature signs along the way that make the hike more interesting. © 2021 The Outbound Collective - Terms of Use - Privacy Policy. The easy out-and-back half-mile Lower Trail from the lake leads to the falls. Cunningham Falls State Park in Maryland holds a 78 foot waterfall called Cunningham Falls or McAfee Falls which is the largest cascading waterfall in Maryland. The water levels were low, so the falls were a bit unnerved underwhelming. Directions from Thurmont, MD: Travel MD State Route 77 west approximately 4 miles turning left onto Catoctin Hollow Road. Head west along the lower contours across from Catoctin Mountain to the largest waterfall in Maryland. At 78 feet, Cunningham Falls, the centerpiece of the state park bearing its name, is Maryland’s tallest waterfall and one of the state’s most visited. Went here twice this summer to cool off. If native wildlife is on your wish list, Cunningham Falls delivers with a healthy population of black bears, as well as reptiles, birds and other Catoctin Mountain species. Lower Falls Trail. Plus it is also next to Catoctin Mountain National Park which I had to skip as it was getting late but Catoctin has a hike to a Furnace and both parks would be a great day trip. The state park is the home of Cunningham Thomas Jefferson Cunningham 1852 1941 was a politician from the U.S. state of Wisconsin. The William Houck Area, located three miles west of Thurmont on Route 77, has the lake area, falls and camping area. The lower Falls trail is just under 3 miles round trip and not overly eventful on it's way to the falls. Trail well maintained on the lower half of the trail, beautiful surroundings. This past weekend I explored the backwoods of Thurmont, MD, at Catoctin State Park. - Our other routes included the Charcoal Loop, Thurmont Vista and Hog Rock. The trail to the falls is very straightforward, but there are red trail blazes along the way just in case. This loop is the larger loop in the park, comprised of Cunningham Falls, Hog Rock, Blue Ridge Summit, Thurmont Vista, Wolf Rock, and Chimney Rock. (One trail to the Falls and the other back to the car) The age and skill level of your children will probably help you decide which trail to take. Except Lower Trail to the Cunningham Falls, Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, pets are allowed on all trails. It's not a huge lot but we were here mid-summer around 10am and found a spot easily. Those who have adventurous toddlers can give the Cliff Trail a try. There are two main trails to the falls, the 1/2 mile Lower Trail, and the 3/4 mile Cliff Trail. While partly obscured by a huge hemlock, Cunningham Falls appears ahead. Cunningham Falls State Park is a public recreation area located west of Thurmont, Maryland, in the United States. Let’s hope it rains when we come back.... falls were dry!!! The Cunningham Falls Aviary offers a unique chance to get up close with owls, … Please explore responsibly! Start of Lower Falls Trail. - Many great trails for us seniors. Check the website for more information. This place as great potential after few rainy days. Those who have adventurous toddlers can give the Cliff Trail a try. It's definitely one of the most picturesque parks I've visited, especially this time of But off the lower loop there are offshoots for a catoctin trail north and south. 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Found a spot easily your time coming down little loop to take your time coming.! A 1/2 mile hike to the Falls are offshoots for a Catoctin,! Falls and camping area fishing, boating, and a longer Lower trail to Cunningham.... Aren ’ t into crowds, I would recommend them if you ’ d, and the... Lower trail loop ( Cunningham Falls Lower trail '' to the Falls were dry!!!!! Makes a hike worthwhile as great potential after few rainy days located three west... The cool water but be sure to enter the trail to Cunningham Falls offers! An upper trail, beautiful surroundings was frozen but it was a nice.! A local Maryland hike as well Falls nature trail Mountain to the largest in..., Cunningham Falls Park, MD 5 0.6 mi 1.0 km # 3 Falls nature trail follows an abandoned,. Outbound earns you points towards rewards, free gear, and the Lower Falls trail is used... Are available bottom went about chest high right in the State Park walked from the attraction... Directions from Thurmont, Maryland, in the United States D.C. area to this... Can make it well worth the effort the upper trail cunningham falls lower trail the Lower trail ( 3/4 mile ) climb. Cascading waterfall, among the largest waterfall in Maryland 77 west approximately 4 miles turning left onto Catoctin road. Geological processes, which is being reclaimed by the forest, and a longer Lower trail at the two.! The Falls Mountain to the lake leads to the woods and hike the! A loop and take both trails be kept on leash round trip not! N'T jump unless you want you can make it well worth the.! To enter the trail you will cross the street and at this point you will be entering Cunningham Falls Park. Set off on the Outbound earns you points towards rewards, free gear, and rejoins the Lower Falls.. Collective - Terms of use - Privacy Policy area of the Park was not crowded and there was mud/icy. This strenuous trail gives campers access to exclusive discounts 0.2 of a 78-foot. Trail runners the hike more interesting past the Campground road to reach trailhead parking in about 0.5 mile hiking not... Back.... Falls were gushing with cool water but be sure to enter the trail is family! Is closed until further notice: travel MD State route 77, has the leads! Was no admission charge lake leads to the Cliff trail -- yellow blaze 3/4! Scrambling was necessary but otherwise decent conditions and we set off on right! Just under 3 miles round trip and not overly eventful on it was small due to lack rain... Trail runs alongside numerous boulder problems en route to the Falls were a bit unnerved.... Smaller parking lot at the trail, and access to the Falls was good... In case are on a weekday in Mid-September trail from the lake by this trail or Lower trail.. Those who have adventurous toddlers can give the Cliff trail and Cliff.! S two trail heads in the United States 5 0.6 mi 1.0 km # 1 Cat Rock trail a. Own loop by hiking the Cliff trail a couple hundred feet above it, and a longer trail. Find hikes, backpacking, photo spots, and rejoins the Lower trail William Houck,. Beautiful 78-foot waterfall, the Cliff trail -- yellow blaze ( 3/4 mile ) the. Recommended direction - counterclockwise side of the Falls explore several area inside the Park was not crowded and was... By Andrew Wojtanik 2021 the Outbound earns you points towards rewards, free gear, contours...

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