Abol Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (3)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Abol Falls
Abol Falls is a compact, scenic cascade on the Abol Stream tucked into the forests of Baxter State Park. Framed by northern hardwoods and spruce, the falls offer an intimate, peaceful setting that's easy to reach—making it a rewarding waterfall outing without a long backcountry trek. The short approach preserves the quiet, wilderness feel typical of the park, and the cascade is a popular spot for a morning or afternoon visit in summer and the shoulder seasons when light and water levels are often ideal for photography. The approach is a straightforward out-and-back of about 2.4 miles round trip with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating, so it works well as a half-day objective while exploring Baxter State Park. There are no developed campgrounds immediately adjacent to the trailhead; the nearest designated camping is at Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument Camping and Huts, roughly 35.6 km away, so most visitors plan Abol Falls as a day hike and return to nearby park campgrounds or base locations afterward.
The Setting
Abol Falls sits at 551 feet along the East Branch Penobscot River, in the foothills of Maine.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Katahdin Stream Falls (40 ft) lies 4.8 miles to the north.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Out-and-back park trail (Baxter State Park route, not a USFS-numbered trail), approximately 2.4 miles round trip with about 350 feet of elevation gain; difficulty: moderate. The footpath follows the Abol Stream and is generally a well-maintained forest trail with a steady grade rather than steep or technical sections, leading directly to the base of the falls. Suitable for hikers prepared for a moderate climb and typical wooded trail conditions; non-technical footwear and typical day-hike gear are recommended.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Abol Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $0.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Abol Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit Abol Falls is during the spring and early summer when water flow is typically at its peak. Fall is also a great time to visit for stunning foliage views.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the falls, as rocks can be slippery. Be aware of changing weather conditions and carry appropriate gear. Cell service may be limited in the park.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 19.4 miles away
420 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 104 years of record
4.62 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge East Branch Penobscot River at Grindstone, Maine (31 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
420 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
414 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
435 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
483 cfs
4/10Sat
Barely Flowing
463 cfs
3/10Sun
Low
478 cfs
4/10Mon
Low
475 cfs
4/10Best window: Tomorrow — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to late June, peaking in April.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Brownville Junction hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
The bare-earth surface loses about 15 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 552 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 52 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 9 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northeast and stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 552 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 15 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Abol Falls is located within Baxter State Park, accessible via the Abol Stream Trail. Visitors can reach the trailhead by driving along the Park Tote Road. Specific directions may vary depending on your starting location, so consult a map or GPS for accurate navigation.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at designated areas within Baxter State Park, near the trailhead for the Abol Stream Trail. Availability may vary depending on the season and park traffic.
Elevation
551 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.826713° N, -68.968379° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early during peak seasons to secure parking. Wear sturdy footwear, as the trail may be muddy or slippery, especially after rain. Bring insect repellent during the summer months to protect against mosquitoes and other bugs.
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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Waterfront home on Moosehead Lake
Baxter Park Inn
Hotel Terrace
Family Friendly Lakefront Cottage, Ambajejus Lake
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument Camping and Huts
22.1 miles away · 27 sites
Overview Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument is located in Maine’s north woods. Katahdin Woods and Waters protects part of an extraordinary natural and cultural landscape: the mountains, woods, and waters where the East Branch of the Penobscot River and its tributaries, including the Wassataquoik Stream and the Seboeis River, run freely. Campsites, lean-tos and huts located throughout the monument provide opportunities to stay overnight while hiking, biking, paddling and enjoying other re
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Katahdin Stream Falls, Mount Katahdin, and other trails within Baxter State Park.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and occasionally moose. Be cautious and respectful of wildlife during your visit.
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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