Nesowadnehunk Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Nesowadnehunk Falls
Nesowadnehunk Falls is a scenic cascade on the Nesowadnehunk Stream tucked into the forested reaches of Baxter State Park. The falls’ series of drops and pools make it a favorite stop for photographers and hikers seeking a tranquil slice of Maine’s north woods, with the river’s movement and surrounding spruce-fir forest offering a peaceful, photogenic setting. The walk to the falls is an approachable outing for anyone comfortable with a moderate hike: the route is a 2.4-mile out-and-back with about 350 feet of elevation gain, typically rated Moderate. Nestled within Baxter State Park, the trail follows the stream corridor and rewards visitors with repeated water views and the quiet solitude the park is known for, making it an excellent half-day outing for nature lovers and day hikers.
The Setting
Nesowadnehunk Falls sits at 584 feet along the East Branch Penobscot River, in the foothills of Maine.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
This is a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail that gains roughly 350 feet and is generally rated Moderate. The route follows the Nesowadnehunk Stream through forested terrain to reach the falls, offering repeated streamside views. Official USFS trail surface/grade/class data and a trail number are not applicable or not provided for this Baxter State Park route; expect a natural, unpaved hiking surface with some short ups and downs rather than paved or heavily engineered tread.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a serene and scenic experience with the sound of rushing water and opportunities to observe local wildlife. The falls are surrounded by lush forest, providing a peaceful atmosphere.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Nesowadnehunk Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $0.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Nesowadnehunk Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is during the spring and early summer when water flow is at its peak, or in the fall for stunning foliage views.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the falls as rocks can be slippery. Be aware of changing weather conditions and carry a map of the park. Cell phone service is limited in the area.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 22.7 miles away
358 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 104 years of record
4.51 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
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 East Branch Penobscot River at Grindstone, Maine (37 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
358 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
376 cfs
4/10Sun
Barely Flowing
393 cfs
4/10Mon
Barely Flowing
398 cfs
3/10Tue
Low
452 cfs
4/10Wed
Barely Flowing
415 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
371 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 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 Brownville Junction 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.
1-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 40 feet through Nesowadnehunk Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 589 feet.
Most of the action is upstream: the ground drops about 69 feet in the 500 feet above the pin and flattens beneath the falls. Facing northeast, the falls stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 589 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 40 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Nesowadnehunk Falls is located within Baxter State Park. Visitors can access the park via the Togue Pond Gate or Matagamon Gate. The falls are situated along the Nesowadnehunk Stream, near the park's Tote Road.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at designated areas within Baxter State Park. Visitors should check with park staff for the closest parking area to the falls.
Elevation
584 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.846712° N, -69.030047° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear as the trail may have uneven sections. Bring insect repellent, especially during the summer months. Check Baxter State Park's rules and regulations before visiting.
Where to Stay
Waterfront home on Moosehead Lake
Baxter Park Inn
Hotel Terrace
Family Friendly Lakefront Cottage, Ambajejus Lake
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
22.2 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 Baxter State Park include Katahdin Stream Falls, Daicey Pond, and Mount Katahdin.
Wildlife
Visitors may encounter moose, deer, and a variety of bird species. Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Nearby Waterfalls
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LiDAR
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