Swallow Falls is the namesake of Swallow Falls State Park, and it’s not a half-bad waterfall. In the park, there are three waterfalls, the others being the impressive Muddy Creek Falls, and the smaller Tolliver Falls. I’m not sure whether I enjoyed Swallow Falls as much, but that may have been due to the lighting conditions at the time.

Whereas Muddy Creek Falls was at angle where the sun didn’t cause problems, Swallow Falls was more difficult to photograph at the time of day that I visited. The sun was intense enough that it was washing out much of the interesting features surrounding the falls. I also visited in late October, when I’m assuming that there is a lower flow. In March or April, this falls might be more impressive. Still, at these water levels, it was pretty easy to explore at river level and try to get interesting shots at different vantage points.

Directions:

1. There are multiple ways to get to the falls, but the clearest way might be to access the park from US-219 in Maryland.
2. In between McHenry and Oakland (two villages/towns) along US-219, you’ll find the road that leads to the park, Mayhew Inn Road. If headed south, you’d turn right onto this road.
3. The road twists and turns, veers a bit left and is called Oakland Sang Run Road, and then turns right and is called Swallow Falls Road. This road will lead you into the state park.

Accessibility: 10/10 (easy)
Height: 16′
Length of Hike: 0.5 miles round-trip

Swallow Falls in late October 2010

Where in the World is Swallow Falls?