Cascade Falls Loop Trail is a 2.3 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Elkridge, Maryland that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
Patapsco Valley State Park charges a fee to enter. The fee is $5 per vehicle. This route begins at a parking lot within the park. Hikers are able to park at the Landing Road parking lot as well, however, be aware that if the parking lot gets full and you park on the street, you may be fined or towed.
February 25, 2021Very muddy due to ice and snow melt
February 22, 2021Great time! Went in the morning, it was super icy but that made it very fun. There were some spots that the ice made it dangerous, wouldn’t suggest for kids or anyone that doesn’t have good grip shoes.
February 20, 2021Great hike! Very slick but added an element of fun and difficulty.
February 15, 2021Wonderfully fun loop, great moderate pace, family friendly and with all the snow a little hard to appreciate the ridges/terrain depth. Muddiest trail I've ever used so just wear your finest boots
February 6, 2021Awesome view all around. A bit slushy but worth it.
February 6, 2021February 6, 2021Parts were very icy, make sure to wear proper shoes.
February 6, 2021Icy when we started but nice trail and lots of area for Bruce to run.
January 23, 2021Beautiful scenery all the way through!
January 22, 2021Super crowded, waterfalls were beautiful
January 19, 2021The falls were a bit underwhelming and too many people on the trail without masks. Also got a ticket parking on street.
January 17, 2021This was such a beautiful trail to walk. The falls were right at the beginning of the trail and that’s where most of the hikers were. As we travelled more around the loop there were fewer to sometimes no people. My whole family, including my dog loved it! I can’t wait to go back in the Spring!
January 17, 2021Hidden gem so close to Baltimore! Easy to moderate hike with a moderate incline and a beautiful waterfall. Steepest incline near base of trail, so if you start there, it gets easier after that. A little muddy in some parts, but otherwise fairly family friendly (though not stroller or wheelchair friendly) and should be safe for most dogs if you’re paying attention. No ropes or rock climbing necessary but option to climb on boulders in/around the stream and waterfalls. From the lower entrance within Patapsco Park, going left gets quickly to the falls and going right takes you around the loop, hitting the falls up toward the end of the trail. There are several small falls (you know, cascading), and one big waterfall, probably ~10-12’ high. Much of the trail follows the stream, and other trails and little side paths connect to it. Most of the Patapsco Park trails connect to each other and Cascade is no exception so be aware of where you’re going. Crowded around the waterfall usually, and moderately trafficked elsewhere, there’s almost always someone nearby. Several good trails nearby, most are easier and many are bike and stroller friendly. Suspension bridge is fun, and plenty spots to picnic either near the waterfall, or elsewhere on the park grounds. Restrooms at base of trail. Main entrance for park is off US-1 near Guinness, $2 cash per car to get in. Give it a visit!
January 11, 2021January 9, 2021Great trail! A touch muddy and a little crowded but really pretty views, not too hard on elevation. Our 4yo made it nearly two miles before getting in the backpack. Definitely need some waterproof shoes, just in case. Some big rocks and some river crossings.
January 9, 2021Pretty crowded around the falls but great weather
January 9, 2021Nice trail with options for shorter or longer hikes.
January 2, 2021Thanks for the wayfinding tips on the blue trail signs - mudddy - beautiful but felt badly for the runners - shoes were trashed!
January 1, 2021Muddy
December 30, 2020December 29, 2020Over loved.
December 29, 2020December 21, 2020Heavily trafficked is right. If you're looking for a peaceful escape to nature, this isn't it.
December 20, 2020December 14, 2020The upper lot was full on Sunday so we took the Ridge trail to the falls. It was a nice, moderate hike though there were many bikers coming thru. Most of them were considerate and shouted out, though had to keep on guard. Cascade falls was packed so I was glad we took the detour route, though it ended up being about 6 miles round trip (3.5 miles out, 2.5 back along the river).
