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Cascade Falls Trailhead
4.7 ★★★★★ 719 Google reviews · Running trail in Elkridge, Maryland · Hours vary
Runner's snapshot
- Surface
- Natural surface
- Loop distance
- Not reported
- Shape
- Loop
- Shade
- Not reported
- Access
- Not reported
Confirmed from Cascade Falls Trailhead's own listing, the park or land manager's website, and runner reviews. Blank cells mean we could not verify that fact — we would rather say "not reported" than invent one. There is no Easy / Moderate / Hard rating on this page on purpose: a one-word difficulty score tells you nothing about whether a trail suits your run. Surface, distance, shade and hours do.
Petite, forested, creek-crossed area featuring hiking trails, a swinging bridge and cascading waterfalls (and even a playground).
What runners say about Cascade Falls Trailhead
“Overall, the entire park is lovely but this specific trail is easy peasy and gorgeous to sit around and see.”
“We came in from the Landing Road entrance, and the path was initially wide and easy to follow.”
“Up to the falls it's an easy hike; if you plan to do the whole loop, bring plenty of water, good hiking boots, an app to help you navigate, and be ready for a lot of uphill hiking.”
Nice hike... took us about 3 hours because we had some issues figuring out what trail we were supposed to follow after we passed the falls. Ended up on Garrett's Pass, but it crossed back onto the upper falls trail and we were able to finish the loop.
Fairly steep, but short hike to the falls with a decent amount of parking nearby. The trail itself consists of a number of loops that allow for flexibility when it comes to how long a hike you would like to have if you are here for more than just the falls.
This is a well-maintained state park that is suitable for folks of all ages. Great for relaxing walks with your pets and family, jogging, biking and solo trips. Although quite crowded during weekends, the trails are quiet for the most part.
I'm always amazed that this beautiful place exists just 20 minutes from Baltimore. There are multiple places to park, some free and some not. We wanted to be closer to the Cascade Falls Trail (blue trail) so we paid $2 for park entry and parked at the furthest lot.
Trail conditions & character
“Overall, the entire park is lovely but this specific trail is easy peasy and gorgeous to sit around and see.”
“Parking lot RIGHT by the trail takes 4 cars but theres a parking lot about 20 yards down the path that takes 40 cars so you won't have a problem finding parking.”
“Also, something I didn’t realize was that there was immediate elevation climb as soon as I got on the trail.”
“Nice trail, with some very light rock scrambling, and a fair amount of rocks and roots along the way.”
“We didn't do it, but if you plan to do the whole loop, bring plenty of water, good hiking boots, an app to help you navigate, and be ready for a lot of uphill hiking.”
“Our dog did great, but I wouldn't recommend it for young children.”
“4 stars because the trail itself becomes harder to follow without more trail markers in some places, and trail intersections lack markers or directional arrows.”
Plan your run at Cascade Falls Trailhead
The practical stuff
- AccessHours vary — hours are not posted for this trail, so check before an early or late run
- SurfaceNatural surface — easiest on the joints and the most fun, but expect roots, rocks and mud after rain
- DistanceNot reported. Trail systems often quote total path mileage rather than a single loop, so measure the route you actually want before you drive out.
- ShadeNot reported. Assume some of it is exposed and carry water in summer.
- At the trailheadparking — reported by runners
- DogsWelcome, per reviewers. Leash rules vary by park — the trailhead sign is the authority.
- Websitednr.maryland.gov
- Social Instagram · Facebook
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