Great Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Great Falls
Great Falls is a prominent waterfall located on the Androscoggin River, near the cities of Auburn and Lewiston in Maine. The falls are known for their wide, cascading flow and historical significance as a power source for local mills. The waterfall is particularly striking during high water flow in the spring or after heavy rains.
The Setting
Great Falls sits at 118 feet along the Androscoggin 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
No hiking is required to view Great Falls. The waterfall can be seen from designated viewing areas near the Great Falls Plaza, making it accessible for all visitors.
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 Great Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Great Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring is the best time to visit due to the high water flow from snowmelt. Summer and fall also offer pleasant conditions, while winter provides a unique view of the falls with ice formations.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Stay on designated viewing platforms and avoid getting too close to the riverbanks. Water levels and currents can change rapidly, especially after heavy rains.
Current Water Conditions
7,060 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 97 years of record
4.86 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Androscoggin River near Auburn, Maine (3 km away).
Today
Low
8048 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
7267 cfs
5/10Sun
Low
7704 cfs
3/10Mon
Low
7393 cfs
6/10Tue
Low
7534 cfs
4/10Wed
Low
7701 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
7559 cfs
3/10Best window: Mon — low flow, mostly sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid 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 Auburn hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Great Falls is easily accessible from both Auburn and Lewiston. The falls are located near the Great Falls Plaza area, and visitors can use local roads to reach the viewing points. Coordinates: 44.0998, -70.2226.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is parking available near the Great Falls Plaza area, with several public lots and street parking options nearby.
Elevation
118 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.099795° N, -70.222554° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during the spring for the most impressive water flow. Bring a camera to capture the scenic views. Be cautious near the riverbanks, as water levels and currents can be unpredictable.
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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. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
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
Quality Inn & Suites Auburn I-95
Hilton Garden Inn Auburn Riverwatch
Hampton Inn Lewiston-Auburn
Residence Inn by Marriott Auburn
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 Auburn Riverwalk, Lewiston's Museum L-A, and the Bates College Museum of Art.
Wildlife
The area around the falls may feature common river wildlife such as ducks, herons, and fish.
Cities near Great Falls
Other waterfalls named Great Falls
12 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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