Grand Falls
Maine • 40 ft
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 Grand Falls
Grand Falls is a stunning waterfall located on the Dead River in western Maine. Known for its wide, dramatic cascade and remote wilderness setting, it is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The falls are approximately 40 feet high and span the width of the river, creating a powerful and picturesque scene.
The Setting
Grand Falls sits at 394 feet along the East Branch Penobscot River, in the coastal lowlands of Maine. The falls drop 40 feet.
Height: 40 feet
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Grand Falls is a short and relatively flat hike through a forested area. It is well-marked and suitable for most visitors, including families. The trail leads directly to a viewing area near the base of the falls.
What to Expect
The falls drop 40 feet. 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 Grand Falls?
✅ Dogs are 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 the best times to visit, as the water flow is strongest during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter access may require snowshoes or a snowmobile.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should exercise caution near the falls, as the rocks can be slippery and the currents are strong. Be prepared for remote conditions and carry a first aid kit.
Current Water Conditions
363 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 104 years of record
4.52 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
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 East Branch Penobscot River at Grindstone, Maine (16 km away).
Today
Low
363 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
382 cfs
5/10Sun
Low
430 cfs
4/10Mon
Moderate
418 cfs
5/10Tue
Moderate
458 cfs
5/10Wed
Low
421 cfs
6/10Thu
Low
376 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — low flow, sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to late 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.
1-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 16 feet through Grand Falls over a long run of ledges. The falls are listed at 40 feet; that total covers more ground than this one lidar line does, which sees about 84 feet of descent end to end. Elevation at the pin is about 395 feet.
The ground changes about 13 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 34 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing east, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 395 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 16 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
Grand Falls is located near the town of West Forks, Maine. Access typically involves driving on logging roads, which may require a high-clearance vehicle. Directions can vary depending on the season, so it is recommended to consult local resources or maps before visiting.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but space may be limited. Visitors should be prepared for rustic conditions.
Elevation
394 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.612273° N, -68.704202° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring bug spray during the summer months, as mosquitoes and black flies can be prevalent. Wear sturdy shoes, as the trail may be muddy or uneven in places. Check road conditions before heading out, as logging roads can be rough.
Where to Stay
Baxter Park Inn
The Whitetail Inn and Suites- Lincoln
Hotel Terrace
Katahdin Valley Motel
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 Forks area offers additional outdoor activities such as whitewater rafting, hiking, and fishing. Moxie Falls, another popular waterfall, is located nearby.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including moose, deer, and birds. Visitors should be cautious and respectful of the natural environment.
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Grand Falls
5 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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