Cowyard Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainPhoto Credits (1)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Cowyard Falls
Cowyard Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Maine, known for its serene surroundings and natural beauty. It is a lesser-known destination, making it a peaceful spot for visitors seeking a quiet retreat in nature.
The Setting
Cowyard Falls sits at 407 feet along the Piscataquis River, in the coastal lowlands of Maine.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Little Wilson Falls (60 ft) lies 7.2 miles to the west.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Cowyard Falls is short and relatively flat, making it accessible for most visitors. It passes through a wooded area and leads directly to the waterfall. The path may be uneven in places, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Cowyard Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Cowyard Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as water flow is typically strongest during these seasons.
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 aware of ticks and other insects in the area. Always stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost.
Current Water Conditions
9 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 123 years of record
1.33 ft
Water depth at gauge
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 Piscataquis River near Dover-Foxcroft, Maine (17 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
9 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
10 cfs
4/10Sun
Barely Flowing
11 cfs
3/10Mon
Low
12 cfs
4/10Tue
Low
13 cfs
3/10Wed
Barely Flowing
11 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
13 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late 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 Brownville Junction 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.
1-meter lidar measures about 69 feet of descent through Cowyard Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 405 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 30 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 59 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face east and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 405 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 69 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Cowyard Falls is located near the town of Parkman, Maine. Access is typically via local roads, and visitors should use GPS or local maps for navigation as signage may be limited.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may consist of roadside pull-offs or small informal parking areas. Visitors should ensure they are not blocking private property or roadways.
Elevation
407 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.331439° N, -69.336159° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit after a rainstorm or during the spring for the best water flow. Bring bug spray during the summer months, as mosquitoes and other insects may be present. Be cautious of slippery rocks near the falls.
Where to Stay
Charming Bingham Home Near Outdoor Adventure, Pet Friendly!
Abbot Trailside Lodging
Leisure Life
All-Season Sanctuary: Steps to Moosehead Lake
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other natural attractions in the area include Sebec Lake and Peaks-Kenny State Park.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors may also encounter insects such as mosquitoes and ticks.
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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