Fish River Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (3)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Fish River Falls
Fish River Falls is a scenic waterfall located in northern Maine, near the town of Fort Kent. It is part of the Fish River, which flows through the region's dense forests and offers a tranquil natural setting. The falls are known for their cascading waters and are a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Setting
Fish River Falls sits at 719 feet along the Allagash River, in the foothills of Maine.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Fish River Falls is a short and relatively flat path through a wooded area. It is well-maintained and suitable for most visitors, including families. The trail leads directly to a viewing area near 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 Fish River Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Fish River Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the water flow is strongest during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may provide a unique view of the frozen falls.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the falls, as rocks can be slippery and the water currents strong. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, and carry a map or GPS device if exploring the surrounding area.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 22.3 miles away
205 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 97 years of record
1.84 ft
Water depth at gauge
64°F
CoolRefreshing for swimming
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. Water temperature is a refreshing 64 degrees F, good for a quick swim.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Allagash River near Allagash, Maine (36 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
221 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
257 cfs
4/10Tue
Barely Flowing
228 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
208 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
233 cfs
3/10Fri
Barely Flowing
227 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
236 cfs
5/10Best window: Tue — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early April to late 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 Caribou 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.
The bare-earth surface loses about 23 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 715 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 26 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 15 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing southwest, the falls 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
- 715 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 23 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- 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 southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Fish River Falls is located off Route 11, near Fort Kent, Maine. Access to the falls typically involves a short hike from a nearby parking area. Visitors should follow local signage and trail markers to reach the falls.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but availability may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
719 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.850596° N, -68.733379° W
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 and black flies.
Where to Stay
Spacious Eagle Lake Home w/ Fireplace & Deck
Portage Lakeside Cabins in Portage Lake, ME
Magnificent Cabin Nestled Amidst Trees in Portage Lake, Maine
Maine Vacation Rental Less Than 1 Mi to Portage Lake Beach
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
Fort Kent State Historic Site, Allagash Wilderness Waterway, and the Fish River Scenic Byway.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Moose sightings are also possible in the region.
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Fish River Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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