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Hike to Cunningham Falls

Smithsburg, Maryland

4.2/5
based on 6 reviews

Details

Distance

2.8 miles

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Kristen May

Easy access to one of the grandest falls in the state of Maryland, measuring 78 feet high.

This 78-foot waterfall, among the largest in the state, is easily accessible by two short trails. 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.

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.

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Features

Chillin
Photography
Swimming
Hiking
Forest
River
Waterfall

Reviews

Didn't have the place to myself, but the trail was well kept and maintained. I was happy about the distance, too... Not bad at all for a quick trip to a 78' waterfall!

The falls are amazing. So glad I went! It’s the perfect hike for beginners who are looking for a decent challenge.

Parking is a short distance away from multiple falls. Great pit stop during the summer but know it's a busy spot!

This was a very cool hike for our family. The path is well taken care of and almost completely shaded which helped a lot on a hot August day with kids. The falls was awesome with a few small spots the take a quick dip. Once at the falls there is a small viewing area were you can take a seat if you don't want to cross the rocks and sit at the base of the falls.

A fun hike, I always take the way that leads you more up into the mountains, instead of tuning right at the fork in the trail I always go straight and take the way in that is full of some fun rocks to boulder and more challenging hills.

This is a VERY easy hike, so would be great for young children, beginning hikers, or puppies. It can also be very crowded on a nice day.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hike the Old Misery Trail to Cat Rock

Hike the Catoctin Mountain Extended Loop Trail

Hike Catoctin Mountain

Hike Chimney Rock at Catoctin Mountain Park

Camp at the Adirondack Shelters in Catoctin Mountain Park

Hike to Devil's Racecourse on the Appalachian Trail