Grand Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Grand Falls
Grand Falls is a scenic waterfall located in Maine, known for its natural beauty and tranquil surroundings. It is situated near the Mattawamkeag River and offers visitors a peaceful retreat into nature. The waterfall is surrounded by lush forest, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
The Setting
Grand Falls sits at 246 feet along the Penobscot River, in the coastal lowlands of Maine.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Grand Falls is not well-documented, and details about its length, elevation, and condition are unclear. Visitors should prepare for potentially uneven terrain and bring appropriate footwear.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a serene natural setting with a picturesque waterfall surrounded by forest. The area may be remote, so plan accordingly for limited amenities.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Grand Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Grand Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall may have higher flow due to snowmelt and rainfall. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warmer weather for outdoor activities.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The area may have uneven terrain, slippery rocks, and limited cell service. Visitors should exercise caution and inform someone of their plans before visiting.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 18.2 miles away
3,310 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 123 years of record
1.64 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 regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Penobscot River at West Enfield, Maine (29 km away).
Today
Moderate
3470 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Moderate
3501 cfs
9/10Thu
Moderate
3545 cfs
8/10Fri
Moderate
3520 cfs
8/10Sat
Strong
3700 cfs
8/10Sun
Strong
3936 cfs
8/10Mon
Strong
3922 cfs
8/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March 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 Mattawamkeag 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 29 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 245 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 43 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 11 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
- 245 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 29 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
Grand Falls is located approximately 19.6 miles from Mattawamkeag, 26.7 miles from Bradley, and 29.2 miles from Old Town. The coordinates for the waterfall are 45.1698, -68.29. Access may require driving on rural roads, so ensure your vehicle is prepared for unpaved or uneven terrain.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but visitors should expect limited parking near the trailhead or along the roadside. Plan to arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
246 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.169786° N, -68.290018° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a map or GPS device as cell service may be unreliable in the area. Wear sturdy footwear and pack water and snacks. Arrive early to avoid potential parking issues.
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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Hidden Oasis, Duplex A. Close to almost everything
The Whitetail Inn and Suites- Lincoln
Briarwood motor inn
Silver Lake 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
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
The Mattawamkeag River and surrounding forest areas offer additional opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious and respectful of the natural habitat.
Cities near Grand Falls
Other waterfalls named Grand Falls
5 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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