Saturday May 19th, my hubby and I enjoyed hiking out to this lovely waterfall. This waterfall is the third in the series at Swallow Falls State Park on the Youghiogheny River. It is more like a rapid not a real fall but it is still flowing very rapidly and is lovely to look at.
On the loop walk this is the 3rd of the falls and the slightly walk in the groves of the virgin hemlock trees. There is a split in the trail, you can continue out the canopied tree walk through the forest or you can descend the stairs to the lower fall trail.
You can also walk out to the top of these falls so be careful!!!
THERE ARE NOT RAILINGS UP THERE ON THE TOP OF THE FALLS, YOU CAN HAVE A SEVERE ACCIDENT EASILY, ROCKS VERY SLIPPERY HERE!!! You will be on some really big rocks that can be wet and you definitely don't want to fall in here. There is a huge rock tower with 2 trees growing on top it. Very unique and great PHOTO OP!! Once you go back up to the upper trail thru the canopy Hemlock trees to go out to Tolliver Falls you have to climb 108 stairs!
These lovely groves of Virgin Hemlocks are lovely and remind me of pine trees but super tall. The groves of Hemlocks are very tall and lovely!
I have to admit, I used my off here because of the dense forest and wet like conditions with all the ferns and trees so thick that its like a dark canopy in there. I still got bit by a mosquito so be careful with any kids, make sure everyone is covered in OFF or some sort of Deet.
WARNING:
Rocks very slippery!
There is no barriers at the tops of the falls so also take warning and be careful with any pets and kids. Rocks are slippery and you can go over.
You are allowed to Wade in the river and the bottom of the falls but the water is strong and swift so be extra careful
There is a cost for this park. Maryland state residents $3 per person, out of state residents $5 but the fee also includes Herrington Manor State Park. One fee for both parks!!
Since you are having to pay to enjoy God's backyard here,
Be sure to see all four waterfalls in this lovely park!!! read more