Let’s Go Chasing Waterfalls – In Maine! A Guided Road Trip to Maine’s Waterfall Loop

A road trip to explore the beautiful waterfalls of Maine with our Ultimate Maine Waterfall Road Trip Guide

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Maine? Western Maine’s ultimate waterfall loop road trip will take you to nine of the most stunning waterfalls in this beautiful state.

Many of these waterfalls form incredible swimming holes and natural water slides, promising fun, adventure, and breathtaking scenery. Let’s dive into the details of this must-do summer bucket list trip and explore the beauty of inland Maine!

Discover the Waterfalls of Western Maine

1. Screw Auger Falls

Nestled in the White Mountain National Forest, Screw Auger Falls offers a mesmerizing view. The two-tiered waterfall cascades into a gorge, creating beautiful swimming holes. It’s a perfect spot to start your waterfall adventure.

You can park for free, but they request donations (in your honor). Please plan to donate to help maintain these treasures.

2. Step Falls

Located near Screw Auger Falls, Step Falls is a series of cascades and pools. The hike to the falls is relatively easy and offers a chance to enjoy the serene beauty of the forest. The surrounding area is perfect for a picnic and a refreshing swim.

The twenty-four-acre Step Falls Preserve includes land on both sides of Wight Brook in Newry, Maine. The brook flows over open ledges and potholes, creating numerous pools suitable for wading, swimming, and sunning. The ¾ mile trail provides access to the Falls and becomes steep towards the top.

The Parking lot fills quickly on hot weekends, and no parking is permitted on the road. Signage at boundaries must be respected, and trespassers on neighboring lands risk fines and/or prosecution by the Maine Warden Service. 

3. Falls at Frenchman’s Hole

A hidden gem in the Bethel area, Frenchman’s Hole is a popular spot for swimming and cliff jumping. The waterfall plunges into a deep, clear pool, ideal for a refreshing dip. The peaceful surroundings provide a perfect escape into nature.

Nestled just a few miles past the Sunday River Ski Resort, Frenchman’s Hole has transformed from a well-kept local secret into a popular attraction. Once a hidden gem known only to the town’s residents, it now draws locals and visitors from afar who relish its beauty.

The main draw of this spot is the inviting swimming pool formed in the giant pothole beneath the 10-foot waterfall. This pool is deep and alluring, perfect for swimmers seeking a refreshing dip. While the exact depth can be challenging, estimates suggest it reaches at least 20 feet. Cliff jumping is a popular activity here, but it’s crucial to remember the inherent risks. Always survey the area and check the pool’s depth before jumping, as hidden currents and rocks may not be visible from the surface.

4. Snow Falls

Situated along Route 26 in West Paris, Snow Falls is easily accessible and features a picturesque waterfall that drops into a gorge. The area is perfect for a quick stop and photo opportunity. There’s also a lovely picnic area to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Snow Falls in West Paris features the Little Androscoggin River carved through a narrow, winding gorge. This scenic rest stop, known as Snow Falls Gorge, boasts a well-maintained picnic area provided by Maine. Visitors can enjoy trails on both sides of the gorge, picnic tables, a pit toilet, and ample parking.

Snow Falls showcases four distinct sets of cascades, with the final one being a personal favorite. This thin plunge flows into a dark pool beneath the footbridge over the river.

The gorge, with its walls up to 30 feet, is fenced in to ensure safety, making it a family-friendly spot. Although the water can sometimes appear dark and foamy, the gorge’s beauty and accessibility right off the road make it a worthwhile stop. Be sure to visit Snow Falls if you find yourself in the area.

5. Smalls Falls

Located in Sandy River, Smalls Falls boasts a series of four waterfalls. The lower falls are perfect for swimming, while the upper falls offer stunning views.

The nearby picnic area makes it an excellent spot for a lunch break. This is a great place to spend an afternoon with family and friends.

6. Cascade Stream Gorge Falls

A short hike through the Cascade Stream Gorge Nature Preserve leads to this beautiful waterfall. The hike is worth the effort as you are rewarded with a serene and picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. It’s an excellent spot for nature lovers and photographers.

Find Cascade Stream Gorge in Sandy River Plantation. The 1-mile trail leads into the 90-foot deep gorge of Cascade Stream, providing access to waterfalls and chutes. 

The trail leaves from the south side of the parking area. Look for white blazes. Shortly after leaving the parking lot, the trail passes under a power line, continues into the woods and along the stream, and eventually connects with the Fly Rod Crosby Trail.  

Along the trail, which at several points follows the bedrock on the side of the gorge, there are several good viewpoints of the stream and falls. 

7. Angel Falls

One of Maine’s tallest waterfalls, Angel Falls, is a sight to behold. The 90-foot drop creates a magnificent display, and the surrounding area is perfect for hiking and exploring. The hike to Angel Falls is moderately challenging but worth the effort for the stunning views.

It is a 90-foot “hanging” plunge, and the water creates the shape of an angel’s wing. It is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Maine. Finding the trailhead is challenging, and you’ll want to consider water flow when you want to go.

There must be enough water flow for the falls to be full/pretty, but not so much water flow that it makes stream crossings impossible or inadvisable. This is about a 1.1-mile hike with a bit of elevation gain and several stream crossings, so make sure those in your party are sure-footed and up for the fun/challenge of rock hopping over a flowing stream.

UPDATE: Angel Falls is closed to the public for the summer of 2024. We have been told they will reopen in the summer of 2025. We would advise you to confirm before visiting this beauty.

8. Dunn Falls

Dunn Falls features a series of cascades and pools, making it an excellent spot for exploration and relaxation. The hike to the falls offers beautiful views of the surrounding forest, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful retreat into nature.

The 1.9-mile out-and-back trail leads through the woods, twisting and turning until finally arriving at one of the state’s most lovely waterfalls. The route is considered moderately complex due to some exposed roots and rocks, but overall, if you’re a hiker, you should find this doable.

Dunn Falls is two different waterfalls. Lower Dunn Falls features an 80-foot drop.

9. The Cataracts

Located in Oxford County, The Cataracts is a series of waterfalls that create natural water slides and pools. It’s a fun spot for the whole family. The area offers excellent hiking trails and opportunities for outdoor adventure.

The Cataracts offer a variety of waterfalls, swimming holes, and a rugged, deep gorge perfect for exploration. With three distinct sets of falls and multiple swimming holes, this spot promises hours of adventure. In the spring, the falls transform into powerful torrents, while multiple visits throughout the year reveal the different personalities of this stunning natural wonder.

The lower falls, known as The Churn, plunge 12 feet through a narrow slot at the end of the gorge. Access is relatively easy, as they are just off the trail.

The middle falls, called The Cataract, feature a 70-foot horsetail cascade that slides smoothly into a deep pothole. A wooden fence along the edge of the steep gorge ensures safety, as the area is quite treacherous. Although the pothole below the middle falls looks perfect for swimming, it’s not safely accessible.

The upper falls, or The Flume, are the most inviting. Here, Frye Brook widens and cascades in a series of curving drops that merge during high water flow. When water levels are low, the channels below the falls provide excellent swimming opportunities. These pools are family-friendly along the trail, making them ideal for a refreshing dip.

Planning Your Waterfall Road Trip

With around 5 hours of drive, you’ll want to extend this trip to enjoy each waterfall and the beautiful surrounding areas. The route also passes through charming towns and stunning natural landscapes, including White Mountain National Forest, Mount Blue State Park, and Rangeley Lake.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Pack Essentials: Bring swimwear, towels, water shoes, and a picnic to enjoy at various stops. Here is a link to my tried-and-true water shoes, which have held up exploring streams and waterfalls of Maine, New Hampshire, and Jamaica! I have worn them for three years, and they continue to hold up.
• Plan Your Stay: Consider staying overnight in one of the charming towns along the route to explore the local culture and cuisine. We love “Inn By The River” in The Forks. While you are there, spend a fun day river tubing!
• Respect Nature: Follow Leave No Trace principles to pristine these beautiful spots.
• Check Accessibility: Some waterfalls require a hike, so check trail conditions and accessibility.

Avoid the Crowds

This waterfall loop road trip offers a fantastic alternative to Maine’s more touristy coastal areas. By venturing inland, you’ll discover the unspoiled beauty of Western Maine, with its tranquil forests, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking waterfalls.

Many of these falls were local secrets but are quickly becoming more popular places to visit. The parking lots can fill quickly, so be prepared.

Add This to Your Summer Bucket List

I hope you enjoyed our Ultimate Maine Waterfall Road Trip Guide. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore these hidden gems of Maine. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, this waterfall loop road trip has something for everyone. Pack your bags, hit the road, and let’s go chasing waterfalls in Maine!

Embark on this incredible journey and create memories that will last a lifetime. Happy waterfall chasing!

Related Posts

For those who are inspired by the beauty of Maine’s waterfalls and want to explore more of New England, check out these related posts:

The Best of New Hampshire-The Top 10 Things To Do in New Hampshire in Summer

Or Visit Maine Office of Tourism

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