LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Bisco Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout Bisco Falls
Bisco Falls is a quiet, lesser-known cascade tucked into Maine’s forested hills, rewarding visitors with a shaded, mossy setting and the simple pleasure of falling water framed by mature woods. The falls feel intentionally tucked away — a peaceful spot for photographers, birders, or anyone looking to trade busier parks for a more solitary nature stop. Because measurements and formal signage are limited, the experience is more about the forested ambiance than a dramatic, highly developed attraction. The approach follows a natural forest tread with roots, rocks, and a few short steeper pitches, and there’s no documented USFS trail name or number or developed viewing infrastructure, so sturdy shoes and basic navigation are recommended. Note that the nearest developed campground (Hastings Campground) is roughly 36.4 km away, so plan accordingly if you hoped to camp nearby.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail type: out-and-back. Difficulty: moderate. Surface: natural forest tread with exposed roots, rocks, and occasional muddy sections. Grade/class: generally moderate with several short, steeper pitches; non-technical hiking (no scrambling or climbing required). Trail infrastructure: minimal — no documented USFS trail name/number, boardwalks, or railings; expect an unimproved trail and come prepared with appropriate footwear, water, and basic navigation tools.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil natural setting with a cascading waterfall surrounded by dense forest. The area may be less crowded due to its relative obscurity.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Bisco Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Bisco Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the water flow is typically stronger during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the falls. Cell service may be limited in the area, so plan accordingly.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Little Androscoggin River, 1.3 miles away, not on Bisco Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
52 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 106 years of record
2.71 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Little Androscoggin River near South Paris, Maine (2 km away).
Today
Moderate
52 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
57 cfs
9/10Thu
Strong
73 cfs
8/10Fri
Strong
76 cfs
8/10Sat
Strong
73 cfs
8/10Sun
Strong
72 cfs
10/10Mon
Moderate
65 cfs
9/10Best window: Sun — strong flow, partly sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to late May, 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 South Paris hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Bisco Falls Frozen?
Updated about 8 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Bisco Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 51°F to 38°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 59 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 51 feet through Bisco Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 383 feet.
The ground changes about 52 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 7 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing southeast, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 383 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 51 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Catches soft morning 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
The exact location of Bisco Falls is not widely publicized. Visitors may need to consult local resources or hiking guides for precise directions. It is likely accessed via a forest trail.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited or roadside parking near the trailhead.
Hours
Elevation
384 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.285069° N, -70.536172° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a map or GPS device as the trail may not be well-marked. Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for potentially muddy or uneven terrain.
Where to Stay
Charming Home Near Ski Areas
Cozy Retreat with Private Backyard Oasis
New host! Exceptional Sunday River Ski In Ski Out Condo
Comfort Inn & Suites Wilton
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
HASTINGS CAMPGROUND
22.6 miles away · 25 sites
Overview Hastings Campground is located on Route 113 near the shore of Evans Brook in western Maine. It is situated in a rustic and remote part of White Mountain National Forest, not far from the towns of Gilead Me and Gorham, New Hampshire. Activities include fishing, hiking and mountain biking. The White Mountains boast pristine forests, clear mountain streams and rivers and the tallest peaks in the Northeast. The forest encompasses nearly 800,000 acres in New Hampshire and western Maine, and i
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other natural attractions in Maine, such as Acadia National Park, may be worth exploring.
Wildlife
The area may host typical Maine wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals.
Cities near Bisco Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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