Houston Brook Falls
Maine • 32 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Houston Brook Falls
Houston Brook Falls is a picturesque 32-foot waterfall located in the town of Bingham, Maine. It is known for its scenic beauty and relatively easy access, making it a popular spot for visitors seeking a peaceful natural retreat.
The Setting
Houston Brook Falls sits at 554 feet along the Austin Stream, in the foothills of Maine. The falls drop 32 feet.
Height: 32 feet
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Houston Brook Falls is short and easy, making it suitable for most visitors, including families with children. The path is well-marked and leads through a wooded area to the base of the falls. The terrain is mostly flat, with some uneven sections near the waterfall.
What to Expect
The falls drop 32 feet. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Houston Brook Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Houston Brook Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring is the best time to visit Houston Brook Falls, as the water flow is typically strongest due to snowmelt. Summer and fall are also great times to visit for pleasant weather and colorful foliage.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the waterfall, as the rocks can be slippery. Avoid visiting during heavy rain or icy conditions, as the trail may become hazardous.
Current Water Conditions
4 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 56 years of record
2.75 ft
Water depth at gauge
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.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Austin Stream at Bingham, Maine (5 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
4 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
4 cfs
4/10Sun
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
3/10Mon
Low
6 cfs
4/10Tue
Low
6 cfs
4/10Wed
Barely Flowing
7 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
7 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late 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 North Anson 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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 138 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Only part of that is the waterfall, which is listed at 32 feet; the rest is the canyon carrying on downstream. Elevation at the pin is about 554 feet.
The ground changes about 108 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 54 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
- 554 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 138 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
Houston Brook Falls is located off Route 201 in Bingham, Maine. Visitors can access the falls via a short trail that begins near a small parking area on Pleasant Ridge Road.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead on Pleasant Ridge Road. Parking is free but limited, so arriving early is recommended during peak seasons.
Elevation
554 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.070889° N, -69.940061° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear as the trail can be uneven near the falls. Arrive early to secure parking, especially during weekends and peak seasons. Bring insect repellent during the summer months.
Where to Stay
Abbot Trailside Lodging
Charming Bingham Home Near Outdoor Adventure, Pet Friendly!
The Sterling Inn
Mountain-View Maine Cabin: Ski, Hike & Bike!
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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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Kennebec River, which offers opportunities for rafting and fishing, and the Appalachian Trail, which passes through the region.
Wildlife
The area around Houston Brook Falls is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors may also spot wildflowers and other native plants.
Cities near Houston Brook Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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