Kilgore Falls is Maryland’s second highest vertical drop waterfall. The scenic hollow and short walk make it a popular destination. But read this before you go.
Kilgore Falls is located in the Falling Branch area of Rocks State Park in Harford County, Maryland. This is a popular spot for an easy waterfall walk. Begin your adventure by parking at the lot off of Falling Branch Rd. at 39.689965, -76.422526.
Follow the conspicuous, well-maintained trail down the hill and cross the wooden bridge. The trail curves to parallel the Falling Branch stream, with a hill to your right and a meadow to your left. From the trail, you can find the stone foundation ruins shown above. There are side trails leading to the ruins at the edge of the meadow.
You can hear Kilgore Falls through the woods from the ruins. As you approach Kilgore Falls, the trail splits, forming an upper trail that ascends the rock cliffs and a lower trail that runs along the Falling Branch stream. We opted for the lower trail to approach Kilgore Falls from the bottom.
You will need to cross the stream to make it to the base of Kilgore Falls. There are several options for stone hopping across the stream. We chose to cross at a large rock slab at the base of the cliff. It took some balance and short jumps, but at the time we visited, we were able to cross with dry feet. As shown above, the cliffs and hollow at Kilgore Falls are exquisitely picturesque.
Kilgore Falls drops 17 feet from the cliffs, making it Maryland’s second tallest vertical drop waterfall. From the bottom of the falls, to the left (if looking at the falls), the trail winds through rock clefts to the top of the cliff.
The trail leads right to the top of the waterfall. The lower trail connects with the upper trail, forming a circuit. Rather than crossing at the falls, there is an easier dry crossing just upstream, at the edge of the state park boundary.
Take time to enjoy the serene views of the hollow from the top of the cliff as you listen to the Chorus of birds and crashing water.
Overall, the round trip was 0.8 miles.
The upper trail and lower trail form a circuit around Kilgore Falls, but you need to cross the Falling Branch stream below and above the falls. At the time we visited, both crossings were dry. However, in high water, they may be wet.
Parking is at 39.689965, -76.422526.
Because of its beauty and ease of access Kilgore Falls is extraordinarily popular, so expect company.
IMPORTANT: You need a pass to visit Kilgore Falls on weekends and holidays between May 25th and Labor Day. Passes are available for reservation on the Monday prior to the desired visit date. However, the sign at the trailhead states that passes are required between May 1st and Labor Day, so be sure to check the Rocks State Park Website for current information, hours, and instructions for obtaining a pass before visiting. Also, because of the crowds, we recommend visiting at off peak times.
While you’re in the neighborhood, explore this nearby adventure:
Be sure to check out our other adventures.
