Caratunk Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainPhoto Credits (1)
About Caratunk Falls
Caratunk Falls is a scenic waterfall located in Maine, known for its natural beauty and tranquil surroundings. The falls are part of the Kennebec River and are a popular spot for visitors seeking a peaceful outdoor experience. The flow of the falls may vary depending on the season and water levels.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Houston Brook Falls (32 ft) lies 8.5 miles to the northwest.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Details about the trail leading to Caratunk Falls are not well-documented. Visitors should prepare for potentially uneven terrain and check local resources for updated trail conditions.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a serene natural setting with views of the falls and surrounding forest. The area may be less crowded compared to other popular waterfalls in Maine.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The terrain may not be suitable for all visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Caratunk Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Caratunk Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as water flow is often 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 and changing water levels. Always stay on marked trails and avoid getting too close to the edge of the falls.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Kennebec River, 6.5 miles away, not on Caratunk Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
2,500 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 98 years of record
7.68 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
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 Kennebec River at Bingham, Maine (10 km away).
Today
Moderate
2700 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
2617 cfs
9/10Thu
Moderate
2508 cfs
9/10Fri
Moderate
2665 cfs
6/10Sat
Moderate
2837 cfs
6/10Sun
Moderate
2541 cfs
8/10Mon
Moderate
2525 cfs
9/10Best window: Tomorrow — moderate flow, partly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early April to early June, 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 North Anson hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Caratunk Falls Frozen?
Updated about 8 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately big river, rarely freezes solid
Caratunk Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 51°F to 34°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 2480 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 measures about 48 feet of drop in the ground within a few hundred feet of Caratunk Falls. Elevation at the pin is about 273 feet.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 273 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 48 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Caratunk Falls is located near the town of Caratunk, Maine. Access is typically via local roads, and visitors should check maps or GPS for the most accurate directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may be informal. Visitors should plan to park in designated areas or along the roadside where permitted.
Elevation
272 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.958669° N, -69.869780° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring sturdy footwear and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Check water levels before visiting, as the flow of the falls can vary.
Where to Stay
Mountain-View Maine Cabin: Ski, Hike & Bike!
The Sterling Inn
Bingham Motor Inn
Abbot Trailside Lodging
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
The Kennebec River and nearby hiking trails offer additional outdoor activities.
Wildlife
The area around Caratunk Falls is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds and small mammals.
Cities near Caratunk Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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