Chasing Cascades: Discover the Most Beautiful Waterfalls in Maine
- Gerry Caron
- Aug 13
- 5 min read
Chasing Cascades: 15 Breathtaking Waterfalls in Maine You Need to See
Maine may be famous for its rugged coastline, lobster shacks, and iconic lighthouses, but venture inland, and you’ll discover a whole different world—one filled with lush forests, winding rivers, and cascading waterfalls that feel straight out of a postcard. From gentle woodland streams to roaring plunges surrounded by dramatic granite cliffs, Maine’s waterfalls offer something magical in every season.
Maine’s waterfalls offer a captivating blend of rugged beauty and accessibility—whether you’re seeking roaring spring cascades or hidden woodland pools. These 15 waterfalls encompass limestone gorges, towering drops, and peaceful wading spots—each offering unique photo-worthy moments and adventure opportunities in Maine’s wild backcountry while chasing cascades.
Why Visit Maine’s Waterfalls?
Waterfalls are nature’s ultimate stress relievers. The sound of rushing water, the cool mist on your face, and the beauty of untouched landscapes create the perfect escape from the everyday. In Maine, waterfalls aren’t just photo-worthy—they’re often part of hiking adventures, swimming holes, and picnic spots that make for unforgettable day trips. Whether you’re chasing autumn foliage, spring snowmelt, or summer swimming, Maine’s waterfalls promise breathtaking views and a deep connection with nature.
15 Stunning Waterfalls in Maine | Visitor Guide & Essentials
1. Presumpscot Falls – Falmouth
Trail: 2.5-mile round-trip out-and-back from Oak Nuts Park; easy-to-moderate, approx. 1 hr, ~160 ft elevation gain AllTrails.com
Access: Short woodland walk with scenic overlook from Falmouth’s Presumpscot River trail system—great for families Falmouth, ME
2. Angel Falls – Franklin County (Township D)
Height: 90 ft plunge amid dramatic, 115 ft rock cliffs The Crazy Tourist
Trail: ~1 mile round-trip; moderately challenging with rock-hopping stream crossings; follow red blazes, limited signage Northeast Hikes
Best Time: Late spring (May–July) for peak flow and access New England Waterfalls
3. Screw Auger Falls – Grafton Notch State Park
Trail: Very short and accessible—even wheelchair-friendly; small but scenic falls along Bear River The Crazy Tourist
4. Grand Falls – West Forks
Character: 40 ft drop stretching 120 ft wide; easy access via dirt road, but strong currents make swimming unsafe The Crazy Tourist
5. Dunn Falls – Andover
Structure: Dual plunge cascades—70 ft upper fall and 80 ft lower “half-moon” formation; moderate hike required
Ideal Season: Late spring through early fall The Crazy Tourist
6. Gulf Hagas Waterfalls – Northern Maine
Scenery: Multiple falls within the dramatic “Grand Canyon of the East”; part of Appalachian Trail routes, challenging 8-mile loop New England Waterfalls
7. Houston Brook Falls – Bingham/Pleasant Ridge
Trail: Easy 10-minute walk; 32 ft cascade with misty horsetail features; swimming possible during low flow, discouraged when high The Crazy Tourist
8. Moxie Falls – Somerset County
Tall: One of Maine’s tallest free-falls at ~90 ft; accessible via a short, scenic trail—ideal for family outings The Crazy Tourist
9. Alder Stream Falls – Franklin County
Details: Twin cascades (20 and 25 ft); trail includes a rope-assisted section—bring proper footwear The Crazy Tourist
10. Step Falls – Newry
Character: Gradual 250 ft rock cascade through Step Falls Preserve; short 20-min hike with wading pools—great for a summer cooldown The Crazy Tourist
11. The Cascades – Sandy River
Trail: Tiered falls with a canyon-like hike; lower pools permitted for swimming; terrain feels adventurous and immersive The Crazy Tourist
12. Smalls Falls – Near Rangeley
Access: 54 ft series cascades with swimming holes, picnic tables, and restrooms—all roadside accessible and highly popular The University of Maine
13. Little Wilson Falls – Elliotsville Township
Feature: Three-tier cascade adjacent to the Appalachian Trail; swimming allowed under lower tier only The Crazy Tourist
14. Snow Falls – West Paris
Details: Modest 25 ft cascade through former mill ruins; family-friendly with picnic areas and minimal effort required The Crazy Tourist
15. Katahdin Falls – Baxter State Park
Height: Majestic and remote—Maine’s tallest at over 800 ft; rugged, for experienced trekkers only The Crazy Tourist
Travel Tips & Tour Info
Best Season: Spring through early summer (April–July) when snowmelt keeps flow high. Some spots stay scenic into early fall.
Footwear & Safety: Non-slip shoes are essential—many trails involve slippery rocks or stream crossings.
Swimming Caution: Avoid swimming near strong currents (e.g., Grand Falls). Always assess conditions beforehand.
Guided Tour Option: Northeast Whitewater offers half- and full-day waterfall hiking trips with guidance and gear included—call 207-695-0151 or 888-484-3317, or visit tnortheastwhitewater.com
Tips for Chasing Waterfalls in Maine
Check the Seasons: Spring offers the strongest flows, while fall adds stunning foliage.
Wear the Right Gear: Waterproof boots and insect repellent are essential.
Be Respectful: Stay on trails, pack out trash, and leave no trace.
Plan Ahead: Many waterfalls are in remote areas with limited cell service.
Plan Your Waterfall Road Trip
Many of these waterfalls can be linked into a scenic road trip through Maine’s backcountry. Start in the western mountains, swing through the Maine Highlands, and end along the rugged coast for a full spectrum of Maine’s landscapes.
What to Do in the Moosehead Lake Region & Beyond: Your Complete Guide to Outdoor Adventure & Local Attractions
Planning a trip to the Moosehead Lake region in Maine? You're in for an unforgettable experience packed with adventure, breathtaking natural beauty, and cozy lodging options. From high-adrenaline ATV trails to peaceful paddles on glassy waters, the Moosehead Lake area is a four-season playground perfect for outdoor lovers, families, and anyone looking to unplug and explore.
Want more insider tips? Discover top recommendations at Moose River Lookout, your go-to resource for:
🛶 Boating & paddling routes
🎣 Fishing hotspots
🏕️ Wilderness camping sites
🥾 Trail maps for hiking & nature walks
🍽️ Local dining & shopping recommendations
Stay updated with the latest happenings and news in the Moosehead Lake region. Learn more about what to do and where to go in the Moosehead Lake area and beyond.
🏡 Where to Stay: Moose River Lookout – Your Basecamp for Adventure
Located in Rockwood, Maine, Moose River Lookout is the ultimate vacation home rental for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Nestled on the Moose River, this cozy home features:
Private Dock with access to Moosehead Lake
3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | Sleeps 7
Free WiFi & TV
Backup Generator
Easy driveway access for trailers & ATVs
Direct access to ITS66 Snowmobile Trails
Year-round availability for summer AND winter sports
Whether you're hiking Blue Ridge, casting a line in the river, or hitting the snowmobile trails—Moose River Lookout is where your Maine vacation begins.
Ultimate Outdoor Getaway
With direct backyard access to Maine's Interconnected Trail System (ITS66) and a private dock on the river, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you're into hiking, golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, skiing, or snowmobiling, you'll find it all just steps away from our doorstep.
Book Your Stay
Experience the ultimate outdoor getaway in the heart of Maine's natural beauty. For inquiries or to make a reservation, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to Moose River Lookout, lodging Rockwood Maine a Vacation Home Rental, on Moose River with access to Moosehead Lake and Mt. Kineo!
Phone: 800-544-0300
Email: mooseriverlookout@gmail.com
Address: 4054 Rockwood Rd Rockwood, ME 04478
Website: Moose River Lookout
Whether you’re chasing autumn foliage, spring snowmelt, or summer swimming, Maine’s waterfalls promise breathtaking views and a deep connection with nature.
