Green Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Green Falls
Green Falls tumbles through a quiet, forested setting tucked inside Baxter State Park. Owned by SPR and designated SP, the falls offer a peaceful spot for photographers and hikers seeking a short, scenic outing in Maine’s backcountry. The setting feels secluded and restorative, ideal for a summer picnic or a reflective pause on a day hike. Access to Green Falls is via a moderate out-and-back route of roughly 2.4 miles with about 350 feet of elevation gain. The trail travels through wooded terrain and rewards visitors with the sound and sight of the falls; because the area is managed as part of Baxter State Park, visitors should observe park rules and Leave No Trace practices while enjoying the site.
The Setting
Green Falls sits at 1,703 feet within Baxter State Park, fed by the E. Br. Penobscot River, in the hills of Maine.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Katahdin Stream Falls (40 ft) lies 8.1 miles to the south.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail: moderate out-and-back, approximately 2.4 miles total with ~350 ft elevation gain. Difficulty: moderate. The route follows natural, forested footpaths that can be uneven and rooted in sections; formal surface, grade, and technical class are not separately documented. Hikers should wear sturdy footwear, bring water, and be prepared for variable trail conditions on a short but moderately pitched hike to reach the waterfall.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil natural setting with a picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. The area may be less crowded compared to more popular destinations, offering a peaceful experience.
Accessibility
Accessibility information for Green Falls is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Green Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Green Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Green Falls, as the waterfall is likely to have a stronger flow due to snowmelt and seasonal rains.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and uneven terrain on the trail. Always stay on marked paths and avoid venturing too close to the edge of the falls.
Current Water Conditions
312 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 2 years of record
2.74 ft
Water depth at gauge
64°F
CoolRefreshing for swimming
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. Water temperature is a refreshing 64 degrees F, good for a quick swim.
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 E. Br. Penobscot River below Grand Lake Matagamon (18 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
312 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
312 cfs
4/10Sun
Barely Flowing
310 cfs
4/10Mon
Barely Flowing
332 cfs
3/10Tue
Low
341 cfs
4/10Wed
Barely Flowing
316 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
299 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 late May, 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 Patten 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 147 feet through Green Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 1,696 feet.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 131 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 101 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing northeast, the falls stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,696 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 147 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Specific directions to Green Falls are not widely documented. Visitors are advised to consult local maps or guides for the most accurate route information.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability near Green Falls is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited parking options and consider carpooling if traveling in a group.
Elevation
1,703 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.012545° N, -68.956435° W
Land Management
Managed by UNK
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear and bring a map or GPS device, as trail markings and directions may be limited. Check weather conditions before visiting, as trails could become slippery after rain.
Where to Stay
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
Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument Camping and Huts
10.8 miles away · 27 sites
Overview Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument is located in Maine’s north woods. Katahdin Woods and Waters protects part of an extraordinary natural and cultural landscape: the mountains, woods, and waters where the East Branch of the Penobscot River and its tributaries, including the Wassataquoik Stream and the Seboeis River, run freely. Campsites, lean-tos and huts located throughout the monument provide opportunities to stay overnight while hiking, biking, paddling and enjoying other re
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions are not well-documented, but the surrounding area may offer additional hiking trails and scenic spots.
Wildlife
The area around Green Falls may feature typical Maine wildlife, such as birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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