Cunningham Falls State Park preserves approximately 6,000 acres in Frederick County, Maryland, immediately adjacent to Catoctin Mountain Park — about 60 miles northwest of Baltimore via I-70 W and US-15 N. The park's centerpiece is Cunningham Falls, at 78 feet (24 m) the largest cascading waterfall in Maryland, set within a rocky mountain stream corridor along Big Hunting Creek. Two distinct trail options connect the William Houck Area parking lot at 14039 Catoctin Hollow Rd to the falls.
The Boardwalk Trail is a 0.7-mile flat route following Big Hunting Creek upstream on a paved and wooden boardwalk surface to the base of the falls. This route requires no significant fitness level and takes approximately 25–35 minutes round-trip, making it the preferred option for families, casual visitors, and those with limited mobility. The more demanding Cat Rock Loop extends to 4.5 miles with approximately 400 feet (122 m) of elevation gain; the route passes through mixed hardwood forest and ascends to the Cat Rock quartzite outcropping before looping back through the creek corridor.
The Cat Rock Loop surface is primarily compacted dirt and rock, with the steepest gradient occurring in the first 1.5 miles of ascent. Creek crossings along the return are possible during high spring water and may require waterproof footwear. From Cat Rock, limited southeast views extend across forested hillsides. A day-use fee of $5 per person for Maryland residents and $6 for out-of-state visitors applies at the William Houck Area entrance; swimming is permitted in designated lake areas from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Thurmont (Frederick County)
- Best season
- Spring (April-May) for highest water flow; October for foliage
What to bring
- Sturdy shoes
- Water bottle
- Camera for 78-foot waterfall
- Rain jacket in spring
Location
Cunningham Falls State Park, 14039 Catoctin Hollow Rd, Thurmont, MD 21788
39.6166, -77.4591 View on map
Highlights
- Cunningham Falls — 78-foot cascade, the largest waterfall in Maryland
- Boardwalk Trail (0.7 miles, nearly flat) makes the falls accessible to most visitors
- Cat Rock quartzite outcropping with forest views on the extended 4.5-mile loop
- Big Hunting Creek corridor — a designated trout stream with frequent wildlife sightings
- Adjacent to Catoctin Mountain Park for optional combined hiking days
Tips for visiting
- Visit in April or May when spring snowmelt produces the strongest waterfall flow
- The Boardwalk Trail (0.7 miles, nearly flat) is the most accessible route to the falls
- Day-use fee of $5–$6 per person applies at the William Houck Area entrance
- Waterproof boots are recommended for Cat Rock Loop creek crossings in spring
- Combine with the adjacent Catoctin Mountain Park Blue Blazes Trail for a longer all-day outing
When to visit
Spring (April–May) delivers peak waterfall volume from snowmelt and is the most visually dramatic season; October combines good water flow with peak fall foliage color. Midweek visits throughout summer and fall avoid the weekend crowds at this heavily visited Frederick County park.
Accessibility
The Boardwalk Trail to the base of Cunningham Falls is a 0.7-mile paved and wooden boardwalk suitable for most wheelchairs and strollers; some sections very near the falls are uneven and may require assistance. The Cat Rock Loop is a rocky, steep trail suitable for ambulatory visitors only and is not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers.
Frequently asked questions
What is the entrance fee at Cunningham Falls State Park?
Day-use fees at the William Houck Area are $5 per person for Maryland residents and $6 per person for out-of-state visitors.
How long is the hike to the falls?
Via the Boardwalk Trail, the falls are reached in 0.7 miles — roughly 20–30 minutes one-way. The full Cat Rock Loop is 4.5 miles and typically takes 2 to 2.5 hours.
Is the Boardwalk Trail accessible to wheelchairs?
The Boardwalk Trail is paved and nearly flat for most of its length, making it accessible for most wheelchairs and strollers. Some sections very close to the falls base have uneven ground and may require assistance.
Are pets allowed at Cunningham Falls?
Pets are permitted on leash in most areas of the park. They are not allowed in designated swimming areas or on the boardwalk during peak summer hours.
When is the best time to see the falls?
Spring (April–May) delivers the highest water volume following snowmelt. October combines moderate flow with fall foliage color along the creek corridor.