LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Norway Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout Norway Falls
Norway Falls is a quietly scenic cascade tucked into the woods of Baxter State Park in Maine. Nestled within this state park land unit (designation: SP), the falls offer a classic northern-forest setting—rocky ledges, mossy banks, and the steady rush of water—that makes for an inviting short escape from the region's larger trails. The visit to Norway Falls is best approached as a moderate day hike: the route is an out-and-back that climbs through shaded forest and delivers a rewarding waterside viewpoint without requiring a full-day commitment. Because the falls lie inside park lands, expect a preserved, natural setting and bring sturdy footwear for uneven footing and seasonally variable conditions.
The Setting
Norway Falls sits at 942 feet within Baxter State Park, in the foothills of Maine.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The route follows forested terrain on natural tread; hikers should be prepared for uneven ground and occasional root- or rock-strewn sections. There is no USFS trail number provided for this route in the available data, and surface/grade/class details beyond the moderate difficulty and elevation gain are not specified.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a tranquil setting with the sound of cascading water surrounded by lush greenery. The area may be less crowded compared to more popular waterfalls, offering a peaceful experience.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not documented. The trail may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Norway Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Norway Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Norway Falls, as water flow is typically higher during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, enhancing the scenery.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 46°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Trails may be uneven or slippery, especially after rain. Visitors should exercise caution and stay on marked paths. Be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on East Branch Penobscot River, 9.2 miles away, not on Norway Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
182 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 2 years of record
2.46 ft
Water depth at gauge
46°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is very cold at 46 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.
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 E. Br. Penobscot River below Grand Lake Matagamon (15 km away).
Today
Roaring
197 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Roaring
205 cfs
6/10Thu
Roaring
191 cfs
9/10Fri
Roaring
192 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
196 cfs
6/10Sun
Roaring
198 cfs
6/10Mon
Roaring
191 cfs
9/10Best window: Thu — roaring flow, mostly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to late May, peaking in May.
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 Patten hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Norway Falls Frozen?
Updated about 9 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Norway Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 43°F to 33°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 177 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in Maine.
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 56 feet through Norway Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 948 feet.
The ground changes about 45 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 15 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northeast and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 948 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 56 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Catches soft morning light.
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
Norway Falls is located near the town of Norway, Maine. Access typically involves driving to a nearby trailhead, but specific directions may vary depending on the starting point.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is not well-documented, but there may be limited parking near the trailhead. Visitors should plan accordingly and check local resources for updates.
Elevation
942 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.005363° N, -68.843834° W
Land Management
Managed by UNK
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear and bring insect repellent, especially during warmer months. Check local weather conditions before visiting, as trails may become slippery after rain.
Where to Stay
Katahdin Valley Motel
Family Friendly Lakefront Cottage, Ambajejus Lake
All Season Fun and Cozy Home in Island Falls, ME
Black Bear Dens
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.
Nearby Campground
Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument Camping and Huts
8.5 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
The town of Norway, Maine, offers small-town charm and local shops. Nearby hiking trails and lakes may also be worth exploring.
Wildlife
The area around Norway Falls may feature typical Maine wildlife, such as birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be aware of ticks and other insects.
Nearby Waterfalls
Writing about Norway Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.