Big Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Big Falls
Big Falls is a quietly scenic cascade tucked into Maine’s forested hills, offering a picturesque stop for hikers and photographers. The falls lie within the Pingree Working Forest — land owned by JNT and designated as FORE — and are managed by an NGO, so the setting combines working-forest stewardship with opportunities for low-key outdoor recreation. Seasonal flow and the surrounding canopy make it especially appealing in spring runoff and autumn color. Access to the falls is via a moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back hike with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain. The trail’s manageable length and varied forest scenery make Big Falls a rewarding half-day outing for those looking to pair a moderate walk with a scenic waterfall within a conserved working-forest landscape.
The Setting
Big Falls sits at 1,519 feet within Pingree Working Forest, fed by the Sandy River, in the hills of Maine.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail type: out-and-back, total length: 2.4 miles, elevation gain: ~350 ft, difficulty: moderate. The route travels through the Pingree Working Forest (land owned by JNT and managed by an NGO) and is best described as a moderate forest hike with steady but not extreme climbing. Surface, grade, and USFS trail class data are not provided in the available information.
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 Big Falls?
✅ Dogs are 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 times to visit, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest due to snowmelt and rainfall. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warmer weather for outdoor activities.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the waterfall, as rocks can be slippery. Be aware of ticks and other insects, especially during warmer months.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 25.2 miles away
2 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 18 years of record
4.75 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
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 Sandy River near Madrid, Maine (41 km away).
Today
Low
2 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
2 cfs
5/10Sun
Low
2 cfs
4/10Mon
Low
2 cfs
4/10Tue
Low
2 cfs
4/10Wed
Low
2 cfs
6/10Thu
Low
2 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — low flow, mostly sunny (trip score 6/10).
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 Rangeley 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.
1-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 26 feet through Big Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 1,510 feet.
The ground changes about 30 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 9 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing southeast, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,510 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 26 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Big Falls is located in the northern part of Maine, near the town of Grand Lake Stream. Access typically involves driving on rural roads, and directions may vary depending on the starting point.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is limited parking available near the trailhead. Visitors should plan to arrive early, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot.
Elevation
1,519 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.081996° N, -70.892570° W
Land Management
Managed by NGO
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy or uneven in some areas. Bring insect repellent during the warmer months, as mosquitoes and ticks are common. Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking.
Where to Stay
Rangeley Saddleback Inn
Rangeley Lake Resort a Ramada by Wyndham
Le Pèlerin - Chalet rustique Écoresponsable en nature - Estrie
Rangeley Town & 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.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Grand Lake Stream and other nearby hiking trails offer additional outdoor activities.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Big Falls
23 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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