LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Big Niagara Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Big Niagara Falls
Big Niagara Falls is a photogenic cascade tucked inside Baxter State Park, offering a rewarding nature stop for hikers and photographers. The falls sit on land listed as owned by SPR and designated SP; a specific site manager is not listed. Framed by forested slopes, the falls are best appreciated after a short hike that reveals both close-up views and broader scenic vantage points. The approach to Big Niagara is appealing to anyone looking for a moderate outing rather than a long backcountry trek. Expect classic Maine woods, steady water flow through the gorge, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes this a popular stop within Baxter State Park for day visitors seeking a quick but satisfying waterfall experience.
The Setting
Big Niagara Falls sits at 958 feet within Baxter State Park, in the foothills of Maine.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Katahdin Stream Falls (40 ft) lies 3.2 miles to the northeast.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail is suitable for hikers comfortable with moderate grades; the route climbs gradually in places and levels out nearer the waterfall. Official surface, grade, and trail-class details are not listed for this route, and the trail is managed as part of Baxter State Park (land unit).
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 Niagara Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Big Niagara Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the waterfall tends to have a stronger flow during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 45°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Exercise caution near the waterfall as rocks can be slippery. Be aware of ticks in the area during warmer months.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on East Branch Penobscot River, 21.7 miles away, not on Big Niagara Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
182 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 2 years of record
2.46 ft
Water depth at gauge
45°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is very cold at 45 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.
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 E. Br. Penobscot River below Grand Lake Matagamon (35 km away).
Today
Roaring
197 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Strong
190 cfs
10/10Fri
Strong
191 cfs
7/10Sat
Roaring
195 cfs
6/10Sun
Roaring
197 cfs
6/10Mon
Strong
190 cfs
10/10Tue
Strong
188 cfs
10/10Best window: Tomorrow — strong flow, mostly sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to late May, peaking in May.
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.
Is Big Niagara Falls Frozen?
Updated about 4 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Big Niagara Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 39°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
- 177 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 shows the creek losing roughly 78 feet through Big Niagara Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 971 feet.
The ground changes about 110 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 21 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing southwest, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 971 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 78 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 Niagara Falls is located near the town of Andover, Maine. Access is typically via local roads, and visitors should follow signs or GPS directions to the trailhead.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but availability may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
958 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.870323° N, -69.037270° W
Land Management
Managed by UNK
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy or slippery, especially after rain. Bring insect repellent during warmer months.
Where to Stay
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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Nearby Campground
Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument Camping and Huts
20.9 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 the Appalachian Trail and other scenic spots in the Andover area.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, small mammals, and occasional deer sightings.
Nearby Waterfalls
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