Hadlock Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.8 miles
Trail Type
Loop
Elevation Gain
500 ft
About Hadlock Falls
Hadlock Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Acadia National Park, Maine. It is a seasonal waterfall that is most prominent during the spring and after heavy rains. The falls cascade over a rocky ledge, creating a serene and scenic spot for visitors.
The Setting
Hadlock Falls sits at 522 feet within Acadia National Park, fed by the Otter Creek, in the foothills of Maine.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.8-mile loop trail gains 500 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Hadlock Falls is part of the Hadlock Brook Trail, which is a loop trail that passes through a forested area with moderate elevation gain. The trail is well-marked but may have rocky and uneven sections. The waterfall is most visible during the spring or after significant rainfall.
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 Hadlock Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $30.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Hadlock Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring is the best time to visit Hadlock Falls, as the snowmelt and seasonal rains typically result in a stronger flow. Summer and fall can also be good times to visit, but the waterfall may be less prominent during dry periods.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Acadia National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
The trail can be slippery, especially after rain. Wear appropriate footwear and exercise caution near the waterfall. Be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Current Water Conditions
0 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 20 years of record
1.55 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Otter Creek near Bar Harbor, Maine (6 km away).
Today
Strong
0 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Strong
0 cfs
8/10Tue
Strong
0 cfs
8/10Wed
Strong
1 cfs
10/10Thu
Moderate
1 cfs
9/10Fri
Moderate
1 cfs
9/10Sat
Strong
1 cfs
8/10Best window: Wed — strong flow, mostly sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to late April, 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 Northeast Harbor 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.
Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 133 feet of drop through Hadlock Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 524 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 69 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 90 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southwest and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 524 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 133 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Hadlock Falls is located along the Hadlock Brook Trail in Acadia National Park. The trailhead can be accessed from the Parkman Mountain parking area off Route 198.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Parkman Mountain parking area, but spaces may be limited during peak seasons. Arrive early to secure a spot.
Elevation
522 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.331469° N, -68.280293° W
Land Management
Managed by NPS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit in the spring or after heavy rains for the best chance to see the waterfall at its fullest. Wear sturdy footwear as the trail can be rocky and uneven in places. Arrive early to secure parking, especially during the summer months.
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With 2.8 miles and 500 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
Acadia Inn
Atlantic Oceanside Hotel & Conference Center
Kimball Terrace Inn
Holiday Inn Bar Harbor Regency Hotel by IHG
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.
Nearby Campground
BLACKWOODS CAMPGROUND
3.9 miles away · 292 sites
Overview For Blackwoods campsites, 90 percent of campsites are released six months in advance on the first of each month at 10 am EST. The remaining 10 percent are released at 10 am 14 days ahead of a desired arrival date on a rolling basis. For example, if you plan to arrive on May 24, you can make an online reservation starting at 10 am EST Dec 1 from the first release or starting at 10 am EST on May 10 from the second release. All campsite reservations must be made through recreation.gov. 90%
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Parkman Mountain, Bald Peak, and other trails within Acadia National Park.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter a variety of wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and occasionally deer. Be cautious and respectful of wildlife.
Cities near Hadlock Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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