Lower Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.1 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Lower Falls
Lower Falls in Maine is a picturesque waterfall reached by a moderate hike rather than a quick roadside stop. The route to the falls is a 2.4-mile out-and-back that climbs about 350 feet, so visitors can expect a steady, scenic walk through typical Maine terrain before arriving at the cascade. The trail’s moderate rating makes it a good half-day outing for hikers looking for an achievable challenge and rewarding views. Bring sturdy shoes and a camera — the setting at the falls is peaceful and photogenic, making it a pleasant destination for hikers seeking a nature break. Because the approach requires a short but steady climb, the hike is best suited to those comfortable with moderate grades rather than casual stroller-accessible paths.
The Setting
Lower Falls sits at 604 feet along the Seboeis River, in the foothills of Maine.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail type: Out-and-back. Distance: 2.4 miles (out-and-back). Elevation gain: ~350 feet. Difficulty: Moderate. Surface and official USFS trail class/number are not provided for this route. The trail follows a single path with steady grades rather than steep, technical sections, making it a straightforward hike for those prepared for a moderate uphill and downhill walk.
What to Expect
Swimming is permitted. 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 Lower Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $5.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Lower Falls?
✅ Swimming is allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the water flow is strongest during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides opportunities for wading in the water.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The rocks near the falls can be slippery, especially when wet. Exercise caution when exploring the area. During spring, the water flow may be strong, so avoid getting too close to the edge.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 15.6 miles away
3 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 28 years of record
3.99 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 Seboeis River near Shin Pond, Maine (25 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
3 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
4 cfs
4/10Sun
Barely Flowing
4 cfs
4/10Mon
Barely Flowing
4 cfs
3/10Tue
Low
7 cfs
4/10Wed
Barely Flowing
7 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
7 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to late May, 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 Island Falls 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 59 feet of drop through Lower Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 613 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 39 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 51 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing southeast, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 613 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 59 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer 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
Lower Falls is located in the White Mountain National Forest, near the town of Gilead, Maine. It is accessible via Route 113, which runs along the Wild River. The falls are part of the Wild River area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a designated parking area near the falls, which is typically sufficient for visitors. However, it may fill up during peak seasons.
Elevation
604 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.152272° N, -68.307808° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early during summer weekends to secure parking. Bring bug spray during warmer months, as mosquitoes can be present. Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to explore the rocks near the falls.
Where to Stay
The Brookside Inn
All Season Fun and Cozy Home in Island Falls, ME
Peaceful Oakfield Cabin on Mattawamkeag River!
Sewall House Yoga Retreat
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
23.7 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
Other attractions in the White Mountain National Forest include Screw Auger Falls and Evans Notch. Hiking trails and scenic drives are also available in the area.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors may also spot fish in the river.
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Lower Falls
19 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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