Bowlin Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (2)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Bowlin Falls
Bowlin Falls tumbles along the East Branch of the Penobscot River, tucked into the deep woods of Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument in Maine. The falls reward visitors with a picture-postcard cascade set against a remote, forested backdrop—perfect for photographers and hikers looking for a quiet stretch of river scenery within the monument. Accessing Bowlin Falls involves a relatively short outing that still feels wild. The route into the falls is a moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back with about 350 feet of elevation gain, so expect a bit of climb and wooded trail as you approach the river. Nestled within the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, the site invites a half-day visit to enjoy the falls and surrounding wilderness; facilities and formal campgrounds are not immediately adjacent to the trailhead.
The Setting
Bowlin Falls sits at 492 feet along the E. Br. Penobscot River, in the coastal lowlands of Maine.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
This is an out-and-back route of approximately 2.4 miles round trip with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain. The trail is rated moderate and follows a forested path along the East Branch of the Penobscot River, offering incremental climbs and river views as you approach the cascade. No USFS trail number is listed; the trail is best described as a short, moderately paced hike through wooded terrain to the falls.
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 Bowlin Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Bowlin Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Bowlin Falls, as the water flow is typically higher due to snowmelt and rainfall.
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 avoid getting too close to the edge. Be prepared for remote conditions and carry a map or GPS device. Cell service may be limited in the area.
Current Water Conditions
474 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
3.03 ft
Water depth at gauge
57°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
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 a bracing 57 degrees F, limit your time in the water.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge E. Br. Penobscot River below Grand Lake Matagamon (12 km away).
Today
Strong
474 cfs
10/10Tomorrow
Strong
465 cfs
10/10Thu
Roaring
493 cfs
6/10Fri
Roaring
463 cfs
9/10Sat
Strong
350 cfs
10/10Sun
Strong
186 cfs
10/10Mon
Roaring
199 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — 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 Patten 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.
Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 45 feet of drop through Bowlin Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 481 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 45 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 27 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face west and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 481 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 45 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Bowlin Falls is located within the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument. Access is typically via gravel roads, and visitors should check current road conditions before traveling. The falls are near Bowlin Camps, a historic sporting camp in the area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near Bowlin Camps or at designated areas within the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument. Visitors should confirm parking locations before their trip.
Elevation
492 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.038658° N, -68.723374° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring bug spray during the summer months as mosquitoes and black flies can be prevalent. Wear sturdy footwear, as the trail may be uneven in some areas. Check road and trail conditions before visiting, especially during winter or after heavy rains.
Where to Stay
Katahdin Valley Motel
Family Friendly Lakefront Cottage, Ambajejus Lake
All Season Fun and Cozy Home in Island Falls, ME
Black Bear Dens
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
7.1 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 Bowlin Camps, the East Branch of the Penobscot River, and other trails within the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including moose, deer, and a range of bird species. Visitors should be cautious and respectful of wildlife.
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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