Little Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Little Falls
Little Falls is a small, picturesque cascade tucked into the Pingree Working Forest in Maine. Nestled on land designated FORE and managed by the nonprofit JNT, the site is valued for its quiet, natural setting and draws hikers looking for a peaceful retreat amid working-forest landscapes. Visitors appreciate the waterfall’s intimate scale and the sense of seclusion that comes from being on conserved, NGO-managed timberland rather than a heavily developed park. Reaching Little Falls is a rewarding short hike: the route is an out-and-back of about 2.4 miles round trip with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate in difficulty. That manageable distance makes the falls a nice half-day outing for families and day hikers; come prepared for forested terrain and pack water and sturdy shoes for moderate uphill sections on the approach.
The Setting
Little Falls sits at 1,486 feet within Pingree Working Forest, fed by the Sandy River, in the foothills of Maine.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail type: out-and-back; Length: 2.4 miles round trip; Elevation gain: ~350 feet; Difficulty: Moderate. The trail runs through Pingree Working Forest on land managed by the nonprofit JNT (designation: FORE). Specific USFS trail surface, grade, and technical class are not documented for this route; expect natural, wooded trail conditions with typical moderate-grade hiking sections. No USFS trail name or number is available for this access.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil setting with a small waterfall surrounded by natural beauty. The area may be suitable for photography and quiet reflection.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not well-documented. The area may not be suitable for visitors with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Little Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Little Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as water flow is typically strongest during these seasons.
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 avoid visiting during heavy rain or icy conditions.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 21.8 miles away
2 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 18 years of record
4.75 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
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Sandy River near Madrid, Maine (35 km away).
Today
Low
2 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
2 cfs
4/10Sun
Low
2 cfs
4/10Mon
Low
2 cfs
4/10Tue
Low
2 cfs
4/10Wed
Low
2 cfs
6/10Thu
Low
2 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — low flow, mostly sunny (trip score 6/10).
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 Rangeley 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.
The ground through the falls loses about 51 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 1,486 feet above sea level.
Most of the action is upstream: the ground drops about 64 feet in the 500 feet above the pin and flattens beneath the falls. Facing northwest, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,486 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 51 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Little Falls is located near the town of Gorham, Maine. It can typically be accessed via local roads, but specific directions may vary depending on your starting point.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may consist of small roadside pull-offs or nearby parking lots. Visitors should plan accordingly.
Elevation
1,486 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.031997° N, -70.856181° W
Land Management
Managed by NGO
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during spring or after rainfall for the best water flow. Bring bug spray during warmer months, as insects may be present.
Where to Stay
Rangeley Saddleback Inn
Rangeley Lake Resort a Ramada by Wyndham
Rangeley Town & Lake
Le Pèlerin - Chalet rustique Écoresponsable en nature - Estrie
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
The town of Gorham offers additional outdoor activities and scenic spots to explore.
Wildlife
The area may feature local wildlife such as birds and small mammals. Visitors should observe from a distance.
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Little Falls
27 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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