happyly approved

Kilgore Falls

1026 Falling Branch Road, Pylesville, MD 21132

Daylight

$

hikes

A family-friendly waterfall experience that is unique in the area.

The Falling Branch area of Rocks State Park is comprised of 67 acres of land and is located five miles north of the main area of the park. It is home to Maryland’s second-highest waterfall, Kilgore Falls.

The hike to the falls is only half-a-mile and offers really fun terrain. Hikers will cross a bridge, climb over rocks and, finally, reach the summit of the falls. Visitors can also wade in the stream below, although no lifeguards are on duty. The trail is not difficult, but it is definitely not stroller-friendly. Baby-wearing for infants and unstable walkers would be advised.

There is a portable toilet in the parking lot, but that is the extent of the bathrooms. There are also no designated eating areas or picnic tables. If a snack is necessary, you’ll have to step off to the side of the trail.

Falling Branch is a very popular destination and the parking lot is very small. (It’s kept small to reduce crowding and minimize the damage that may be caused by too many visitors). It’s best to visit at off-peak times such as weekdays or early in the morning. It is most popular in late spring, summer, and early fall. The parking lot opens at 8:00 AM from March to October and 10:00 AM from November to February. There is no fee to enter.

*As of June 24, 2019, the Maryland Department of Natural Resources has implemented a parking pass system. In order to visit on summer weekends or holidays, guests will need to reserve a free parking pass by calling 410-557-7994 Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - noon. This ensures that anyone who visits the falls will actually be able to park and enjoy the area!*

When you’re done visiting the falls, check out the nearby Eden Mill Nature Center where you can get up close and personal with native Maryland species, learn about the property’s history as a grist mill, and explore more great hiking trails. The main area of Rocks State Park is also a short drive away and offers even more hiking, a nature exploration area and Deer Creek, where visitors can wade and tube.

Features

Restrooms Hiking Waterfall Nature
Thoughtfully captured by:
Katie Raspa
Our work in Baltimore is truly a family affair. Husband and wife, Matt and Katie, work together to head up our ambassador team in Charm City. Katie is a Maryland native and has lived in the state her whole life. She moved to Baltimore in 2007 after graduating from the University of Maryland, College Park with a bachelor's degree in early childhood education. She has been working in the field of early childhood education as a teacher and family coach for the past 12 years. Katie also holds a Masters of Education in Literacy from Loyola University. She is passionate about giving kids and families the knowledge and tools that they need to thrive. Matt grew up in the Highlandtown neighborhood of Baltimore. As a city native, Matt is a great resource on all that the city has to offer. After months of helping Katie explore the city for her role at a Happy Active Family, he decided to put his love of writing to use and officially come on board as an ambassador. Matt and Katie have two girls, ages 5 and 7. They spend their weekends camping, hiking, or exploring other hidden gems in their area. Tap into their insider knowledge by downloading the app today!
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