LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Attean Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Hard
Trail Type
Loop
About Attean Falls
Attean Falls is a scenic waterfall located in the Moose River area of Maine, known for its natural beauty and serene surroundings. The falls are part of a remote and rugged landscape, making them a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and paddlers.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Attean Falls is typically visited as part of the Moose River Bow Trip, a multi-day paddling and portaging adventure. The route includes sections of flatwater paddling, portages, and scenic views of the surrounding wilderness. The falls themselves are a highlight of the trip, offering a picturesque spot to rest and enjoy the natural beauty.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a remote and peaceful experience surrounded by Maine's wilderness. The falls are a cascading series of rapids and drops, creating a beautiful and dynamic water feature. Wildlife sightings, such as moose and birds, are common in the area.
Accessibility
The trail involves steep, uneven terrain with significant elevation change and is not accessible to mobility devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Attean Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Attean Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is late spring through early fall when water levels are suitable for paddling and the weather is more favorable.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should be prepared for remote wilderness conditions. Bring appropriate safety gear, including a first aid kit, and inform someone of your travel plans. Be cautious of strong currents near the falls and changing weather conditions.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Spencer Stream, 16 miles away, not on Attean Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
127 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 27 years of record
2.82 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 Spencer Stream near Grand Falls, Maine (26 km away).
Today
Moderate
137 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
134 cfs
6/10Fri
Moderate
132 cfs
6/10Sat
Moderate
125 cfs
6/10Sun
Moderate
126 cfs
6/10Mon
Moderate
114 cfs
9/10Tue
Moderate
112 cfs
9/10Best window: Mon — moderate flow, partly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to mid 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 Kingfield hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Attean Falls Frozen?
Updated about 4 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Attean Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 41°F to 33°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 127 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in Maine.
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.
1-meter lidar measures about 18 feet of drop in the ground within a few hundred feet of Attean Falls. Elevation at the pin is about 1,162 feet.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,162 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 18 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Attean Falls is located along the Moose River near Jackman, Maine. Access is typically via canoe or kayak as part of the Moose River Bow Trip, a popular paddling route. There is no direct road access to the falls.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the starting points of the Moose River Bow Trip, such as the Attean Landing or Holeb Landing. Visitors should plan their trip accordingly as the falls are not accessible by car.
Elevation
1,165 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.545326° N, -70.246178° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Plan your trip carefully, as Attean Falls is remote and requires paddling and portaging to access. Bring a detailed map of the Moose River Bow Trip, and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Ensure you have all necessary camping and safety gear if planning an overnight trip.
Where to Stay
All-Season Sanctuary: Steps to Moosehead Lake
Fun on Moosehead Lake
The Sterling Inn
Mountainview Resort by Coolvacay
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.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Jackman, Maine offers additional outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The Moose River Bow Trip itself is a major attraction in the area.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including moose, deer, beavers, and numerous bird species.
Nearby Waterfalls
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