Avalon Area – Cascade Falls loop from Elkridge

Hiking trails & Routes

Howard County

Ilchester

Avalon Area – Cascade Falls loop from Elkridge

Moderate

hikers

Avalon Area – Cascade Falls loop from Elkridge

02:19

8.52km

120m

Hiking

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.

Last updated: August 27, 2026

Tips

Temporary access restrictions

Includes segments with temporary access restrictions.

After 7.41 km for 58 m

Open: • Monday-Sunday: 9:00 AM-sunset (otherwise closed)

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1.37 km

Patapsco Valley State Park Avalon Area — Mountain Bike Trails

Highlight • MTB Park

A fun trail area with ton of elevation for Maryland riding. You can expect trails along a ridge, jump trails and some rocky and rooty sections.

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1.39 km

Avalon Area

Highlight • Forest

Avalon Area is part of Patapsco Valley State Park. This area has many trails suitable for both hikers and MTB enthusiasts.

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1.56 km

Ridge Trail & Valley View Trail Junction

Highlight • Trail

Coming from Ridge Trail (from the south), this is where the trail divides into Ridge Trail and Valley View Trail. Walk to the left to follow Ridge Trail and to the right to change to Valley View Trail.

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3.24 km

Ruins of old latrines

Highlight • Structure

Right next to the Ridge Trail, you can see some ruins that used to be men's and women's latrines.

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3.85 km

Shelter

Highlight • Rest Area

Very small shelter to take a little rest close to the River Road.

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4.77 km

Cascade Falls

Highlight • Waterfall

Small waterfall created by Cascade Creek. Great place to take a break during the hike.

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5.10 km

Swinging Bridge, Patapsco Valley State Park

Highlight • Bridge

This popular swinging bridge crosses the Patapsco River. It is a wooden suspension bridge with metal cables.

On the bridge you'll have great views of the river and surrounding woodland. …

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