Known for its dramatic ocean shorelines, granite peaks, lighthouses, lobster, and so much more, people often overlook the fact that Maine is also home to some incredible, wondrous waterfalls — there’s a reason its nickname is The Pine Tree State! All across its dense and beautiful forests, rivers and creeks throw themselves scenically from rock ledges; here are the top 10 Maine waterfalls and how to access them.
Top 10 Waterfalls in Maine
1. Hays Brook Falls
2. Gulf Hagas Falls
3. Little Wilson Falls
4. Moxie Falls
5. Poplar Stream Falls
6. Houston Brook Falls
7. Smalls Falls
8. Angel Falls
9. Screw Auger Falls
10. Step Falls
Visiting Waterfalls in Maine
Ready to see these waterfalls for yourself? Here are the details you need to get there, from driving to hiking and everything in between.
1. Hays Brook Falls
Although it stands less than 30 feet tall, Hays Brook Falls cuts a gorgeous profile into the dense New England forest surrounding it: splashing from rock to rock in a kind of twisted horse-tail formation, one of the main draws to this waterfall is its still-untouched status, as it’s located far off the beaten path deep in central Maine. The falls are accessible along the Gulf Hagas Trail and is only a short distance of the famed Appalachian Trail, and a few primitive campsites can be reserved just downstream of this gorgeous cascade.
Things to do near Hays Brook Falls: This waterfall is located just outside of the Appalachian Mountain Club 100 Mile Wilderness Conservation Area, which those brave and strong enough to tackle the Appalachian Trail in its entirety are plenty familiar with: the trail wends its way through this preserve towards its northern terminus at Katahdin. Although quite far from most of Maine’s bigger cities, these falls are only about an hour and a half outside of Bangor, making them doable for a lengthy day trip or a relaxed long weekend. Here are some local RVshare rentals to consider.
2. Gulf Hagas Falls
Nestled along the brook of the same name inside the Appalachian Mountain Club 100 Mile Wilderness Conservation Area, Gulf Hagas Falls offers a truly picturesque stop for those willing to accept the challenge of hiking to it: winding about eight miles altogether and seeing about 500 feet of undulating elevation gain along the way, this trail will certainly leave you feeling worked out, but it also rewards yoth an incredible view for your efforts. Many hikers who venture to the falls in the summer take advantage of the cool waters at its foot to take a quick swim. The gorge these falls are carved into is sometimes known as the Grand Canyon of the East, so we feel pretty confident in saying you’re not going to regret the trip.
Things to do near Gulf Hagas Falls: Another far-off-the-beaten-path waterfall opportunity in north-central Maine, Gulf Hagas Falls is part of a vast series of wildernesses far from any major population centers. However, the small town of Milo is only about an hour away, and offers everything you might need by way of vacation resources… and some comfortable RVshare rental options.
3. Little Wilson Falls
Located along the Little Wilson Stream right along the Appalachian Trail, Little Wilson Falls is actually a series of three sections of cascades: an upper falls that tumbles approximately 40 feet in a horsetail shape, a middle falls that stands about 25 feet tall, and a final slide of about 18 feet at the bottom. For those who aren’t attempting the entire AT, there’s a short and relatively easy hike that’ll take you straight to this natural wonder: Little Wilson Falls Trail runs about two and a half miles altogether and sees a little less than 500 feet of elevation gain, so while there are certainly some steep and rocky sections, it’s still doable even if you’re not a veteran hiker. (We do recommend sturdy shoes and hiking poles, though!)
Things to do near Little Wilson Falls: Another deeply forested part of the state, the lands around Little Wilson Falls are remote and pristine, offering plenty more outdoor recreation opportunities for those looking. Swing by the nearby Borestone Mountain Audubon Sanctuary for more hiking trails and the chance for an up-close and personal view of some area bird and wildlife. Here are some local RVshare rentals to consider.
4. Moxie Falls
At a height of more than 90 feet, this jaw-dropping waterfall lives up to its name: it plunges with power and verve down the rocky chute it springs from along the Moxie Stream, which is fed by the larger Kennebec River. Better yet, the hike to this gorgeous waterfall is one of the least demanding Maine has to offer, meaning hikers of many different fitness and ability levels can enjoy the stunning view; traveling less than two miles altogether and seeing only about 225 feet of elevation change, this short trail makes for a great quick day trip, even for beginning hikers, and is also open to well-behaved, leashed dogs. (That said, we suggest showing up early; with a view this beautiful and a hike this doable, you’re apt to have plenty of neighbors along the way.)
Things to do near Moxie Falls: This area is a favorite for Maine outdoors enthusiasts, particularly those interested in water-based sports. Along with Moxie Stream, nearby Moxie Pond awaits for all sorts of adventures, and a few outdoor outfitters in the area make it easy to get where you’re going with the gear you need, even if you’re not sure exactly what that gear is. Here are some RVshare rentals in the area so you can stay and play as long as you like!
5. Poplar Stream Falls
Located just south of the sprawling Bigelow Preserve with its miles of mountainous hiking trails and Flagstaff Lake shoreline, Poplar Stream Falls is a well-known and popular scenic diversion, separated out into an upper and lower cascade. The upper falls are the smaller ones, tumbling about 24 feet, are accessed via a slightly easier hiking trail than the lower falls, which stand an impressive 51 feet tall. Although these falls are just outside of the town of Carrabassett Valley, famed for its ski resort, they’re remote enough that even some locals don’t know they exist; here are some more details on the falls themselves and the hikes it takes to find them.
Things to do near Poplar Stream Falls: If you’re visiting in the winter, of course, the nearby ski bowl is perfect to play in — though you may be content expending your energy snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the backwoods. Either way, there’s no shortage of stunning natural beauty in this area; here are some local RVshare rentals to consider for your stay.
6. Houston Brook Falls
A breathtaking cascade that scatters in shimmering streams over the tiered rock ledge behind it, Houston Brook Falls is one of the most popular waterfall hikes in the state, and for good reason. Along with its stunning scenery (and an incredible photo opp), this waterfall is accessed via a very short and fairly easy trail that runs only half a mile in length all told and sees about 100 feet in elevation change — which is to say, even if you’re a novice hiker, if you’re in decent shape, you should be able to do it with no problem. If you come in the winter, you can up your game a bit by snowshoeing in, and potentially getting the opportunity to see the falls completely frozen over. (No matter when you visit, even though the trail is short, don’t underestimate it too hard — the thick fog and mist in this part of the state can lead to slippery footing, so you’ll want to bring a solid pair of hiking boots!)
Things to do near Houston Brook Falls: This waterfall is only a few miles away from Wyman Lake, which is another excellent place to engage in some outdoor recreation, particularly in the summertime when the weather is warm. The nearby town of Bingham is small but quant with several places to dine and shop; here are some local RVshare rentals in the area to consider so you can have all the comforts of home while you’re on the road.
7. Smalls Falls
Don’t let its name fool you: while Smalls Falls isn’t the biggest cascade in the state, it certainly holds its own and has plenty of power and beauty to boast! Technically a set of four falls with a total height of approximately 54 feet, this is another option for those looking for shorter, more accessible hikes that lead to beautiful waterfalls: at only half a mile round-trip and 32 feet of elevation gain, this is the easiest hike we’ve put on this list so far. (In fact, it’s a very popular option for those traveling and exploring with kids in tow.) Along with the waterfall itself, the surrounding area is filled with beautiful foliage (known for turning all sorts of Technicolor come autumn), swimming holes for summer splashing, and multicolored rock layers that are like a slice of geological history on display.
Things to do near Smalls Falls: With its trailhead easily accessible from a roadside rest stop, Smalls Falls is a common quick detour on the way to destinations like Saddleback Mountain or Rangeley Lake State Park. Small local cities offer everything you need for a comfortable, convenient vacation, including some wonderful local RVshare rentals offered by friendly owners!
8. Angel Falls
Easily one of the most beautiful and impressive waterfalls in the state, Angel Falls itself stands some 90 feet tall, and the rock cliffs surrounding it soar even higher — about 115 feet. The streams of water make their way noisily down the tiered rock face in what some have seen to be the shape of angel’s wings, giving the cascade its angelic name. The trail to Angel Falls is moderate in every sense of the word: although it runs only a mile round-trip, its 200+ feet in elevation change mean hikers will certainly encounter some steep areas along the way, though the trail is still dog-friendly for well-behaved pups on leashes. Strong and adventurous kids will likely be up to the challenge, too; again, just make sure everyone has proper footwear.
Things to do near Angel Falls: Tucked into the northwestern part of Maine, Angel Falls is fairly far afield from any of the state’s major population areas, but smaller local towns like Rangeley and Rumford have you covered when it comes to the essentials. There are also many other fantastic preserved wilderness areas out here to explore, such as nearby Mt. Blue State Park; renting a local RVshare vehicle makes it easy to stay and play as long as you like.
9. Screw Auger Falls
One of the most sought-after attractions inside Grafton Notch State Park, Screw Auger Falls stands about 30 feet high, but its impressive presence feels much bigger than that. What’s more, this cascade can be accessed by a number of trails, including a very, very short and easy one — really more of a quick walk from the parking area than a hike in any sense of the word. Of course, if you are up for some more heart-pumping adventures, the rest of the state park and the broader Mahoosuc Public Reserve Land beyond it has you covered: there are so many hiking and biking trails here, as well as swimming holes, streams, and meadows just waiting to be picnicked in.
Things to do near Screw Auger Falls: Come to this vast wilderness wonderland in the winter, when everything is framed in white, and enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing opportunities along with the impeccable views. As always, here are some local RVshare rentals that’ll make your stay as comfortable and cozy as possible.
10. Step Falls
Enclosed in a nature preserve all its own, Step Falls stands a whopping 250 feet tall, making it one of the loftiest in the state — though it falls in a gradual, cascading manner than all at once in a plunge. Appearing more like a rapidly babbling river than a sweeping waterfall, Step Falls is still a natural wonder well worth seeking out, and its preserve offers some lovely hiking opportunities as well as places to get your feet (or the rest of you) wet, in the summer. As always, be sure to watch your step — areas near waterfalls tend to be slick for obvious reasons!
Things to do near Step Falls: Step Falls is located just down the road from Grafton Notch State Park, which has its own waterfalls to explore (as just mentioned) — and there are some wonderful RVshare rentals in the area to consider for those wanting to stay and see it all.
Planning an RV Trip to Maine
While Maine’s waterfalls make for a worthy trek in their own right, they’re far from the only reason to head to this beautiful northeastern state — and an RV trip is the perfect way to do it in comfort and style.
When it comes to planning your Maine RV trip, we’ve got everything you need to get started: the best peer-to-peer rental rigs in the state as well as guides to its best state parks and top 10 campgrounds.
We’ve also written an in-depth guide to Acadia National Park, which should definitely be considered a must-stop for anyone traveling through Maine.
After that, it’s up to you, campers — so get out there and explore. We can’t wait to hear all about your adventures!
