Big Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Big Falls
Big Falls is a scenic waterfall located in Washington County, Maine, near the towns of Calais, Danforth, and Vanceboro. It is known for its picturesque setting and cascading waters, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers. The falls are surrounded by forested areas, providing a tranquil and remote atmosphere.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Details about the trail leading to Big Falls are limited. Visitors should be prepared for potentially uneven terrain and bring appropriate footwear. The trail may not be well-marked, so navigation skills could be necessary.
What to Expect
Expect a serene and remote waterfall surrounded by dense forest. The area may be quiet and less crowded compared to more popular waterfalls in Maine. Wildlife sightings are possible, and the falls are most impressive after rainfall or during spring snowmelt.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Big Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Big Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Big Falls, as water flow is typically strongest during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warmer weather for exploration.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the falls and uneven terrain on the trail. Cell service may be limited, so inform someone of your plans before visiting. Bring adequate supplies and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Grand Lake Stream, 0.1 miles away, not on Big Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
116 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 98 years of record
1.77 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
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Grand Lake Stream at Grand Lake Stream, Maine (0 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
125 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
113 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
106 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
106 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
106 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
103 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
103 cfs
5/10Best window: Tomorrow — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to mid March, peaking in March.
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 Calais hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Big Falls Frozen?
Updated about 17 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Big Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 41°F to 30°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 116 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.
The bare-earth surface loses about 29 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 275 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 39 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 51 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southwest and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 275 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 29 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Big Falls is located approximately 25 miles from Calais, 27.9 miles from Danforth, and 33.6 miles from Vanceboro. The coordinates for the falls are 45.1737, -67.7692. Access may require traveling on rural roads, so a reliable map or GPS is recommended.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but visitors may need to park along nearby roads or at informal pull-offs. Exercise caution and avoid blocking access roads.
Elevation
269 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.173683° N, -67.769168° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a map or GPS device as cell service may be limited in the area. Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for potentially muddy or uneven trails. Check weather conditions before visiting, as rain can make trails slippery.
Where to Stay
Woodhaven - Seaside Accommodations
Casa Breeze B & B
Scoodic Motel
Oakhill Oasis guest house
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the town of Calais, Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge, and other natural areas in Washington County.
Wildlife
The area around Big Falls may host a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Cities near Big Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Big Falls
23 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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