Patapsco Valley SP: Cascade Loop Trail

This is a longer loop to gain access to the Cascade Falls. The loop runs adjacent to the river for a while and the waterfall section is beautiful and a great place to sit down and take in the scenery. However, the trail zig zags and has lots of “shoots” so paying attention is key to not adding time. Park along shoulder of Landing Road. Enter the trail system across from Grovemont Drive. Follow trail fairly straight (blue blazed) for roughly 1/2 mile, there is an intersection…you’ll be returning here so pay attention for on the way back. Keep heading down hill straight cross the water once but otherwise you’ll just mostly be meandering alongside. When you see the split for Ridge Trail TURN DOWN to the right. This rocky area can be sometimes difficult for kiddos so use caution. You’ve made it to the Cascades. Our kiddos have fallen in at all seasons so keep an eye on them here. To return, either retrace your steps, or cross the water and follow the trail downhill. Before turning down to the bathrooms (or do, they are clean and you’ll be at the swing bridge/Patapsco River Crossing), head straight and follow the path waaaay past the lower parking overlook. When the trail turns up to the left your on the right switchback. Keep on the trail as it switches back again. You’ll be on the Bike Buster Trail until it intersects with the Upper Cascade. Turn left onto this and then intersect again at the spot noted in the beginning of the hike. In the spring/summer be on the spy for amazing jack-in-the-pulpits!