Gilpins Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (2)
About Gilpins Falls
Gilpins Falls is a scenic waterfall located in Cecil County, Maryland. It is part of North East Creek and is known for its picturesque setting and historical significance, as it is near the Gilpin's Falls Covered Bridge, a local landmark.
The Setting
Gilpins Falls sits at 207 feet along the Big Elk Creek, in the coastal lowlands of Maryland.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
There is no established trail leading directly to Gilpins Falls. Visitors may need to navigate uneven terrain or follow informal paths to view the falls.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a small but scenic waterfall surrounded by natural beauty. The nearby Gilpin's Falls Covered Bridge adds a historical element to the visit.
Accessibility
The area is not officially developed for accessibility, and the terrain may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Gilpins Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Gilpins Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the water flow is typically stronger during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the falls. The area may have uneven terrain, and there are no safety barriers. Exercise caution, especially with children.
Current Water Conditions
225 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 94 years of record
4.32 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing much higher than usual, expect an impressive display.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge BIG ELK CREEK AT ELK MILLS, MD (11 km away).
Today
Roaring
225 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Roaring
259 cfs
6/10Tue
Roaring
226 cfs
9/10Wed
Roaring
233 cfs
9/10Thu
Roaring
240 cfs
9/10Fri
Roaring
259 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
234 cfs
9/10Best window: Tue — roaring flow, mostly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to late April, peaking in March.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near North East hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 108 feet of drop through Gilpins Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 202 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 76 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 22 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face south and sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 202 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 108 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- South
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading south).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Gilpins Falls is located near the town of North East, Maryland. Visitors can access the area via Route 272, and the falls are close to the Gilpin's Falls Covered Bridge.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is limited parking available near the Gilpin's Falls Covered Bridge. Visitors should be cautious as parking may be on the roadside.
Elevation
207 feet above sea level
Coordinates
39.647612° N, -75.952167° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain near the falls may be uneven. Be cautious of slippery rocks if you approach the water. Consider visiting during the spring or after rainfall for a more robust water flow.
Where to Stay
Wingate by Wyndham North East
Comfort Inn & Suites North East
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites-North East by IHG
Red Roof Inn Perryville
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Gilpin's Falls Covered Bridge, Elk Neck State Park, and the town of North East, Maryland.
Wildlife
The area may feature local wildlife such as birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Cities near Gilpins Falls
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