Maryland's Highest Waterfalls and Mountains

Few of the waterfalls in Maryland have been accurately measured by survey methods. There could easily be waterfalls (cascades, most likely) that are missed by this list because they have not come to the attention of the Maryland Geological Survey. Approximate locations are shown on the accompanying map.

The elevations listed below are the highest elevations above sea level along some of the highest ridges in Maryland. Continuity of features and their names can cause some confusion. For example, the same ridge that in southwestern Garrett County is called Backbone Mountain is known as Big Savage Mountain in the northeastern part of the County. All that separates them is the Savage River gorge. But since the names have changed, both the highest points on Backbone and Big Savage are included in the list below. Approximate locations are shown on the map on the reverse side.

NOTE: The order of mountains has not been verified beyond the highest 5. The entire list should be considered provisional and subject to revision. (4-29-93)

*How did Negro Mountain get it's name?
     Legend says that Negro Mountain was named for a slave (a butler or valet; or possibly a scout or ranger) of settler Thomas Cresap’s, named Nemesis, who was killed in a battle with Native Americans in 1756. He is said to be buried on Negro Mountain.

Compiled by the Maryland Geological Survey, 2300 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, MD 21218
This electronic version of "Fact Sheet No.9 " was prepared by R.D. Conkwright, Division of Coastal and Estuarine Geology, Maryland Geological Survey.