Cold Stream Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (2)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Cold Stream Falls
Cold Stream Falls is a peaceful cascade tucked into Cold Stream Forest in Maine, an area designated LOTH and managed by SPR. The falls drop over a series of rocky ledges into a quiet, wooded setting, making it a lovely spot to pause for photos, a picnic, or a moment of solitude in nature. The forested surroundings and the steady sound of flowing water create a classic Maine woodland experience. Access to the falls is via a short, family-friendly outing: the route is a 2.4-mile out-and-back with about 350 feet of elevation gain and is generally rated moderate. The trail is well-marked through the woods and leads directly to the base of the waterfall, so visitors can enjoy close-up views of the cascades and the surrounding forest managed by SPR.
The Setting
Cold Stream Falls sits at 1,434 feet within Cold Stream Forest, fed by the Kennebec River, in the foothills of Maine.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Distance: 2.4 miles round-trip (out-and-back). Elevation gain: ~350 feet. Difficulty: Moderate. The trail follows a well-marked, natural forest tread through wooded terrain in Cold Stream Forest. Grade and technical class are moderate—suitable for hikers comfortable with some uphill sections—but not an extended climb. The path leads directly to the base of Cold Stream Falls, offering easy access to viewing spots; return the same way.
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 Cold Stream Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Cold Stream 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.
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 prepared for changing weather conditions, and carry a map or GPS device if unfamiliar with the area.
Current Water Conditions
1,090 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
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 nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Kennebec River at The Forks, Maine (15 km away).
Today
Roaring
8830 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Roaring
10018 cfs
6/10Mon
Roaring
10139 cfs
6/10Tue
Roaring
10389 cfs
6/10Wed
Roaring
9462 cfs
9/10Thu
Roaring
9142 cfs
9/10Fri
Roaring
10307 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — roaring flow, partly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late April to mid June, 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 Kingfield 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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 198 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 1,429 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 197 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 73 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southeast and 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
- 1,429 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 198 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
Cold Stream Falls is located near the town of The Forks, Maine. Access is typically via a short drive from Route 201, followed by a hike along a forest trail.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but availability may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
1,434 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.465882° N, -70.031452° W
Land Management
Managed by SPR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear as the trail may be muddy or slippery, especially after rain. Bring insect repellent during warmer months to protect against mosquitoes. Arrive early to secure parking, especially during weekends or peak seasons.
Where to Stay
Unity Sky Lodge
All-Season Sanctuary: Steps to Moosehead Lake
Fun on Moosehead Lake
The Sterling Inn
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 Forks area offers other outdoor activities such as whitewater rafting on the Kennebec River and hiking trails in the surrounding forests.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors may also encounter insects such as mosquitoes and black flies during warmer months.
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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