Difficulty
Drive Up
About Great Falls
Great Falls sits on the Androscoggin River in Lewiston–Auburn, Maine, and offers a broad, powerful cascade that has long been part of the area's industrial story—historically harnessed as a power source for local mills. The falls are especially dramatic during spring runoff and after heavy rains, when higher flows accentuate the drop and reveal the river’s raw energy. Visitors often come for quick roadside views, photography, or to appreciate an important piece of local landscape and history. Beyond the easy viewing areas, hikers can explore a short route that lets you take in more of the river corridor. An out-and-back hike of 2.4 miles with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain is rated moderate and provides a more immersive way to experience the falls and surrounding riverside terrain. There is no USFS trail name or number associated with this route; access typically begins from nearby parking and viewing points, making Great Falls a flexible destination for both casual sightseers and hikers looking for a brief, rewarding outing.
The Setting
Great Falls sits at 312 feet along the Saco River, in the coastal lowlands of Maine.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
No hiking required. Great Falls is accessible by vehicle with a roadside viewing area.
Trail Description
Route type: out-and-back. Distance: 2.4 miles round trip. Elevation gain: about 350 feet. Difficulty: moderate. Access: primary access is from roadside parking and viewing areas on the Lewiston–Auburn stretch of the Androscoggin River; the 2.4-mile hike departs from these access points. There is no formal U.S. Forest Service trail designation or published USFS trail number for this route. Hikers should expect an informal path that leaves from the parking/viewing areas and may include uneven riverbank terrain; wear sturdy footwear and plan for a short, moderately strenuous hike to get a closer look at the falls.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
This waterfall is viewable from a vehicle-accessible area. No hiking is required.
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 high water flow from snowmelt. Fall offers beautiful foliage views, while summer provides a pleasant atmosphere for a casual visit.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the riverbanks, especially during high water flow. The currents can be strong and dangerous.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Saco River at Cornish, Maine (5 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
417 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
473 cfs
3/10Sun
Low
533 cfs
4/10Mon
Low
541 cfs
4/10Tue
Low
542 cfs
4/10Wed
Barely Flowing
493 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
476 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
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 Cornish 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 measures about 78 feet of descent through Great Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 316 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 31 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 40 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing southeast, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 316 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 78 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
Great Falls is easily accessible from downtown Lewiston or Auburn. The falls can be viewed from the Great Falls Plaza area or from nearby walking paths along the river.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at Great Falls Plaza in Auburn, which offers convenient access to viewing areas.
Elevation
312 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.852574° N, -70.796729° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during spring or after heavy rains for the most impressive water flow. Bring a camera to capture the scenic views. Be cautious near the riverbanks, as water levels can rise quickly.
Where to Stay
Noble House Inn
Comfort Inn & Suites North Conway
LILY OF THE VALLEY LIMIT 6
ROCKY BEACH LIMIT 5 cabin
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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Nearby Campground
Saco Ranger District
18.9 miles away · 0 sites
Located on the south eastern part of the forest, the District offers a variety of different recreational opportunities. Journey across the Kancamagus Scenic Byway; experience the famous Mt Chocorua area; find solitude in the Presidential Range-Dry River or Sandwich Wildernesses; or discover the beauty along Scenic Route 113. Recreational opportunities are endless: hiking, camping, hiking, biking, fishing, skiing (alpine, cross country, and backcountry), snowmobiling, snowshoeing and much more.
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
The Lewiston-Auburn Riverwalk offers additional scenic views and walking paths. The Bates Mill Complex and Museum L-A are also nearby for those interested in local history.
Wildlife
Birdwatchers may spot various waterfowl and other birds near the river.
Cities near Great Falls
Other waterfalls named Great Falls
12 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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