Swallow Falls State Park occupies 257 acres of old-growth hemlock forest along the Youghiogheny River in Garrett County, in the far western panhandle of Maryland — approximately 3.5 hours from Baltimore via I-68 W and MD-219 S. The park contains the highest concentration of waterfalls in Maryland, all accessible via the 1.3-mile River Trail loop that connects four distinct falls in a single compact circuit through a river gorge corridor.
The trail begins from the main parking area at 2470 Maple Glade Rd, Oakland. A day-use fee of $5 per person for Maryland residents and $6 for out-of-state visitors is collected at the entrance. From the trailhead, the path descends gently on a mix of compacted dirt, wood chip, and boardwalk sections into the river gorge, then follows a clockwise circuit past each waterfall in sequence. Tolliver Falls (15 feet) is encountered first, followed by the narrow Swallow Falls (25 feet) where the trail passes immediately alongside the cascade.
The most dramatic feature is Muddy Creek Falls at the far end of the loop — at 53 feet, this is Maryland's highest free-falling waterfall, plunging into a hemlock-shaded pool. The surrounding forest contains old-growth eastern hemlock trees exceeding 200 years of age and reaching heights of 100 feet, an increasingly rare habitat in the eastern United States. Total elevation change on the 1.3-mile loop is approximately 150 feet, with gentle descent and return grades on generally well-maintained surfaces. The compact distance and moderate terrain make this trail accessible to hikers of most ages and fitness levels.
Trail facts
- Trail area
- Oakland (Garrett County)
- Best season
- May-October; spring for highest waterfall flow; fall for foliage reflections in river
What to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Water
- Camera for Muddy Creek Falls (53-foot drop, Maryland's highest)
Location
Swallow Falls State Park, 2470 Maple Glade Rd, Oakland, MD 21550
39.6606, -79.4014 View on map
Highlights
- Muddy Creek Falls — 53 feet high, Maryland's tallest free-falling waterfall, set in a hemlock-shaded pool
- Old-growth eastern hemlock forest with trees exceeding 200 years of age
- Four distinct waterfalls in a 1.3-mile loop — Tolliver Falls, Swallow Falls, and Muddy Creek Falls
- Youghiogheny River gorge views throughout the compact circuit
- Family-accessible loop in a remote Garrett County wilderness setting
Tips for visiting
- Visit in spring (May–June) for the highest waterfall flow following snowmelt
- Day-use fee of $5–$6 per person applies at the park entrance
- Allow 60–90 minutes for the loop — 1.3 miles is short but scenic stops at each falls add time
- The hemlock gorge stays noticeably cool even in summer — carry a light layer
- Mid-October brings peak foliage reflected in the Youghiogheny River for outstanding photography conditions
When to visit
Spring (May–June) delivers peak waterfall volume from snowmelt, and mid-October brings peak fall color reflected in the Youghiogheny River gorge. Summer weekday visits are quieter than weekends, when the small parking area near the trailhead fills quickly.
Accessibility
The River Trail includes a mix of boardwalk, compacted dirt, and wood chip surfaces with gentle grades for most of the loop. Short stretches of uneven or rooted terrain limit full wheelchair accessibility, though portions near the trailhead and some boardwalk sections are passable with assistance. Visitors with mobility needs should contact the park office for current trail conditions before visiting.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the River Trail at Swallow Falls?
The loop is 1.3 miles with approximately 150 feet of elevation change. Most visitors complete it in 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on time spent at each waterfall.
What is the entrance fee?
The fee is $5 per person for Maryland residents and $6 per person for out-of-state visitors.
What is Maryland's tallest waterfall?
Muddy Creek Falls in Swallow Falls State Park, at 53 feet, is Maryland's highest free-falling waterfall and the park's most photographed feature.
Is the trail stroller-friendly?
Portions of the trail include boardwalks and smoother packed surfaces, but sections of uneven terrain and some rooted paths limit full stroller accessibility. A jogging stroller with good clearance can manage most of the loop.
Are pets allowed in Swallow Falls State Park?
Pets are permitted on leash throughout the park except in designated picnic areas and swimming zones.