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Montgomery County

Cabin John Regional Park

The best waterfall hikes and walks in Cabin John Regional Park

4.7

(248)

3,225

hikers

10

hikes

Waterfall hiking trails in Cabin John Regional Park traverse over 500 acres of diverse natural landscapes. The park is characterized by lush woodlands, streams, and rolling terrain, with many trails following the scenic Cabin John Creek. This area is recognized as a Biodiversity Area and a Best Natural Area, offering varied elevations and natural features for hikers.

Best waterfall hiking trails in Cabin John Regional Park

  • The most popular waterfall hiking route is Stubblefield Falls Overlook – Scott's Run Falls…

Last updated: April 24, 2026

2

hikers

#1.

Stubblefield Falls Overlook – Scott's Run Falls loop from Scott's Run Nature Preserve

3.92km

01:07

90m

90m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

5.0

(1)

52

hikers

Embark on an easy hike along the Woodland and River Trail Loop, a 2.6-mile (4.3 km) route that offers a pleasant outdoor experience. You will gain 247 feet (75 metres)…

Easy
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3

hikers

1.29km

00:21

10m

30m

Discover the natural beauty of the Potomac Heritage Trail, an easy hike that offers continuous views of the Potomac River. As you follow the varied terrain of dirt paths, gravel,…

Easy

4.4

(11)

45

hikers

Hike the easy 3.1-mile Scott's Run Nature Preserve loop to see a waterfall, mature forests, and Potomac River views.

Easy
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Tips from the Community

Freelancer 🥾 🚵 🏍️🏃‍♂️
February 12, 2023, Scott's Run Falls

Great trail to an amazing waterfall. So beautiful and calm. Trail is a little strenuous and uphill. You have to cross water by using stepping stones in 2 places.

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Parking lot with space for about 10-15 cars

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It's a little off the trail, but can be easily be reached by climbing over some of the rocks. Once the Potomac is reached, it offers a great up stream. Especially magically in the morning since the sun will be in your back. Cold mornings with warm river water will create fog over the water, again perfect time to take some amazing photos.

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Nice view over the Potomac and it is fun to climb up from the river.

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Stoffels
August 1, 2020, Saddle Rock

The Saddle Rock is called this way as the best way to cross it is by pretending to get into a saddle. Left foot on the little step carved out and the right foot on the other side of the rock. For first timers, hold on to the root on the side, there is a big drop down to the Potomac.

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Great overlook over the Potomac (upstream). Two trails go past here, so the overlook is frequently visited by other hikers.

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Scott's Run waterfall into the Potomac. Best visited early in the mornings if solitude is preferred. Gets heavily overrun in the summer by a lot of people sun bathing, picnicking and swimming. Good place for letting dogs swim in the river.

3

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Great place to take photos very early in the morning. The sun rises just over the Potomac, shining upstream. Paired with fog on the water it can be a very nice scenery for some magical photos.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many waterfall hiking trails are available in Cabin John Regional Park?

Cabin John Regional Park offers a selection of 10 dedicated waterfall hiking trails. These routes are designed to showcase the park's natural beauty, particularly along Cabin John Creek.

What is the typical difficulty level of waterfall hikes in Cabin John Regional Park?

All 10 of the waterfall hiking trails in Cabin John Regional Park are rated as easy. They feature gentle elevation changes and are suitable for a wide range of hikers, including families.

Are there any family-friendly waterfall trails in Cabin John Regional Park?

Yes, all the waterfall trails in Cabin John Regional Park are considered family-friendly due to their easy difficulty rating. A great option for families is the Stubblefield Falls Overlook – Scott's Run Falls loop from Scott's Run Nature Preserve, which is 2.4 miles long and takes about an hour to complete.

Can I bring my dog on the waterfall hiking trails in Cabin John Regional Park?

Cabin John Regional Park is generally dog-friendly, and many trails allow leashed dogs. The park also features a dedicated fenced-in dog park. Always check specific trail regulations before heading out, but generally, your canine companion can join you on the waterfall hikes.

What natural features can I expect to see on these waterfall trails?

The waterfall trails in Cabin John Regional Park wind through lush woodlands and often follow the scenic Cabin John Creek. You'll encounter diverse natural landscapes, including impressive specimens of trees like American Beech and Tulip Poplar. In early spring, the park is vibrant with 'spring ephemerals' such as Virginia Bluebells and Wild Phlox.

Are there any circular waterfall routes in Cabin John Regional Park?

Yes, several waterfall trails in the park are circular, offering a convenient loop experience. For example, the Scott's Run Nature Preserve loop is an easy 3.1-mile circular path that provides varied terrain and views within the preserve.

What is the best time of year to visit Cabin John Regional Park for waterfall hikes?

While waterfalls can be enjoyed year-round, spring is particularly beautiful with the blooming 'spring ephemerals' and potentially higher water flow after seasonal rains. Autumn also offers stunning foliage. The park's trails are accessible in all seasons, but conditions may vary.

Where can I find parking for waterfall hikes in Cabin John Regional Park?

Cabin John Regional Park offers ample parking facilities throughout its extensive grounds. Specific parking areas are usually available near trailheads and popular attractions within the park. It's advisable to check the park's official website or signage for the most convenient parking for your chosen trail.

What do other hikers say about the waterfall trails in Cabin John Regional Park?

The waterfall trails in Cabin John Regional Park are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 230 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the quiet woodlands, scenic creek views, and the well-maintained, easy-to-navigate paths.

Are there any other attractions or points of interest near the waterfall trails?

Beyond the trails, Cabin John Regional Park offers a variety of attractions. You can visit the Locust Grove Nature Center for educational opportunities, or enjoy the Adventure Playground and Cabin John Miniature Train, especially if hiking with children. For more information on the park's amenities, you can visit Visit Montgomery.

How long do the waterfall hikes typically take to complete?

The duration of waterfall hikes varies depending on the specific trail and your pace. For instance, the Woodland and River Trail Loop, which is 2.6 miles long, typically takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes to complete. Most easy trails can be completed within 1-2 hours.

Is public transport available to reach Cabin John Regional Park?

While Cabin John Regional Park is primarily accessed by car, some public transport options may get you close. It's recommended to check local bus routes and schedules provided by Montgomery County Ride On or WMATA for the most up-to-date information on reaching the park via public transportation.

Most popular routes in Cabin John Regional Park

Easy hikes in Cabin John Regional Park

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