Upper Swallow Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.3 miles
Trail Type
Loop
About Upper Swallow Falls
Upper Swallow Falls sits along the Youghiogheny River inside Swallow Falls State Park, about nine miles (14 km) northwest of Oakland in Garrett County, Maryland. The falls are one of several cascades in the park and offer scenic river-carved rock and mossy ledges that are especially photogenic after spring runoff. Nearby Muddy Creek Falls — noted on the park's Wikipedia entry as Maryland’s highest free-falling waterfall at 53 feet (16 m) — helps define the dramatic waterscape that draws day hikers and nature photographers to this stretch of river. The site lies within the Youghiogheny Wild River land unit (designation: State Park) owned by SDNR, so visitors experience a protected riverside setting with straightforward, well-signed access. Upper Swallow Falls is a quieter stop compared with Muddy Creek Falls but rewards a short walk with close-up views of the Youghiogheny’s rocky channels and smaller cascades, making it an appealing half-day outing for families and casual hikers.
The Setting
Upper Swallow Falls sits at 2,274 feet within Youghiogheny Wild River Nea, fed by the Youghiogheny River, in the hills of Maryland.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Muddy Creek Falls (53 ft) lies 0.4 miles to the north. Also nearby: Tolliver Falls (5 ft, 0.1 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Upper Swallow Falls is an out-and-back route of roughly 2.4 miles round trip with about 350 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate in difficulty. The path is generally well-maintained and features a mix of packed dirt, rocky tread, and short boardwalk sections where the route crosses wet or uneven ground. Expect a moderate grade in places and some uneven, rocky footing and steps near the river viewpoints; no technical climbing is required, but sturdy shoes and steady footing are recommended for the best experience.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Upper Swallow Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $3.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Upper Swallow Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are particularly beautiful due to the vibrant foliage and higher water flow, but the park is enjoyable year-round.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the waterfall edges and on wet or slippery rocks. Stay on marked trails to avoid accidents. Be aware of changing weather conditions.
Current Water Conditions
256 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 2 years of record
2.81 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge YOUGHIOGHENY RIVER NEAR SWALLOW FALLS PARK, MD (1 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
256 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
250 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
481 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
438 cfs
3/10Sat
Low
350 cfs
4/10Sun
Low
252 cfs
4/10Mon
Low
189 cfs
4/10Best window: Tomorrow — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to early March, peaking in May.
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 Oakland 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.
The bare-earth surface loses about 88 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 2,273 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 42 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 67 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing northwest, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 2,273 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 88 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Upper Swallow Falls is located within Swallow Falls State Park, which is approximately 9 miles north of Oakland, Maryland. The park is accessible via Swallow Falls Road, and clear signage directs visitors to the parking area and trailheads.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a designated parking area within Swallow Falls State Park, which provides access to the trails leading to Upper Swallow Falls and other waterfalls in the park. Parking may fill up during peak seasons, so arriving early is recommended.
Elevation
2,274 feet above sea level
Coordinates
39.495647° N, -79.417266° W
Land Management
Managed by UNK
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be rocky and slippery, especially after rain. Arrive early during weekends or holidays to secure parking and avoid crowds. Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities within the park.
Where to Stay
The Garrett Inn
Stunning Pet Friendly New Construction Hot Tub Fire Pit
Still Meadows
Recreational Therapy- Private 2 Bedroom with Hot Tub and Firepit
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
MILL RUN RECREATION AREA
15.3 miles away · 30 sites
Overview The Mill Run Camping Area is located on Youghiogheny River Lake in the heart of the Laurel Highlands. The lake spans the Mason-Dixon Line between Pennsylvania and Maryland. Clean waters, forested mountains and steep-sided valleys provide an unsurpassed setting for recreational opportunities.Recreation Camping, fishing, boating, water skiing, hiking, biking, picnicking and sightseeing are the area's most popular activities. Boaters consider Youghiogheny River Lake, with its 16-mile length
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Muddy Creek Falls, Herrington Manor State Park, Deep Creek Lake
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Keep an eye out for native flora and fauna along the trail.
Cities near Upper Swallow Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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