Mother Walker Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Mother Walker Falls
Mother Walker Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Grafton Notch State Park area of Maine. It is part of the Bear River and is known for its cascading flow over rocky terrain, especially during the spring and after heavy rains.
The Setting
Mother Walker Falls sits at 1,421 feet within Grafton Notch State Park, fed by the Ellis River, in the foothills of Maine.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Dryad Falls, the tallest waterfall in New Hampshire at 300 feet, lies 12.0 miles to the southwest. Also nearby: Screw Auger Falls (23 ft, 0.9 mi).
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Mother Walker Falls is very short and easy, making it accessible for most visitors. It involves a brief walk from the parking area to a viewing spot near the falls.
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 Mother Walker Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Mother Walker Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is in the spring or early summer when the water flow is at its peak. Fall is also a great time to visit for the vibrant foliage.
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 after rain. Exercise caution and stay on designated paths. Be aware of changing weather conditions.
Current Water Conditions
370 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 45 years of record
7.34 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year.
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 Ellis River at South Andover, Maine (15 km away).
Today
Moderate
422 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
406 cfs
6/10Mon
Moderate
359 cfs
8/10Tue
Moderate
402 cfs
6/10Wed
Moderate
417 cfs
6/10Thu
Moderate
386 cfs
6/10Fri
Moderate
337 cfs
6/10Best window: Mon — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 8/10).
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 Bethel hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Mother Walker Falls is located along Route 26 in Grafton Notch State Park. The falls are easily accessible from the road, with a short walk required to view them.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area along Route 26 near the falls. Parking may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
1,421 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.578114° N, -70.926741° W
Land Management
Managed by SPR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during the spring or after a rainstorm for the best views of the falls. Wear sturdy shoes as the area near the falls may be wet and slippery.
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With 2.4 miles and 350 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
Jordan Hotel
Grand Summit Hotel
River View Resort
Town & Country Inn & Resort
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
HASTINGS CAMPGROUND
15.9 miles away · 25 sites
Overview Hastings Campground is located on Route 113 near the shore of Evans Brook in western Maine. It is situated in a rustic and remote part of White Mountain National Forest, not far from the towns of Gilead Me and Gorham, New Hampshire. Activities include fishing, hiking and mountain biking. The White Mountains boast pristine forests, clear mountain streams and rivers and the tallest peaks in the Northeast. The forest encompasses nearly 800,000 acres in New Hampshire and western Maine, and i
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other attractions in Grafton Notch State Park include Screw Auger Falls, Moose Cave, and hiking trails such as the Eyebrow Loop Trail.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Moose sightings are also possible in the region.
Cities near Mother Walker Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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