Fish River Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Fish River Falls
Fish River Falls is a scenic waterfall located in northern Maine, known for its rugged beauty and remote setting. The falls are part of the Fish River, which flows through the dense forests of Aroostook County. The area is popular among outdoor enthusiasts for its natural charm and tranquility.
The Setting
Fish River Falls sits at 538 feet along the Fish 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 forested area. It is well-marked and suitable for most visitors, including families. The trail leads directly to the falls, offering scenic views of the surrounding wilderness along the 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 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
The best time to visit Fish River Falls is during the spring and early summer when water flow is typically at its peak. Fall is also a great time to visit, as the surrounding foliage provides a stunning backdrop.
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 the rocks can be slippery and the water currents strong. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, and let someone know your plans if hiking alone.
Current Water Conditions
63 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 96 years of record
2.81 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
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Fish River near Fort Kent, Maine (4 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
68 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
70 cfs
4/10Tue
Barely Flowing
64 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
62 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
67 cfs
3/10Fri
Barely Flowing
60 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
59 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 Grand Isle 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 52 feet of drop through Fish River Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 542 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 78 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 85 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southeast and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 542 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 52 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Catches soft morning 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
Fish River Falls is located approximately 23.2 miles from Grand Isle, 41.7 miles from Caribou, and 50.6 miles from Presque Isle. The falls can be accessed via a trail off Fish River Falls Road, which is a gravel road leading into the forest. Visitors should use GPS coordinates 47.2049, -68.5858 for navigation.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead on Fish River Falls Road. Parking availability may be limited, especially during peak seasons.
Elevation
538 feet above sea level
Coordinates
47.204876° N, -68.585830° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear, as the trail may be muddy or uneven in places. Bring insect repellent during the warmer months to protect against mosquitoes and other insects. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the trail may be slippery after rain.
Where to Stay
Quality Hotel & Conference Centre
Best Western Plus Edmundston
Comfort Inn
Morel Executive Suites
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
Nearby attractions include the town of Fort Kent, the northern terminus of U.S. Route 1, and the Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, moose, and various bird species. Visitors should remain cautious and respectful of the natural habitat.
Other waterfalls named Fish River Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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