LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Orris Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
3.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Orris Falls
Orris Falls is a scenic waterfall located in the Orris Falls Conservation Area in southern Maine. It is part of a larger natural area featuring wetlands, forests, and unique geological features such as the 'Big Bump' glacial erratic. The waterfall is seasonal and is best viewed after periods of rain or during spring snowmelt.
The Setting
Orris Falls sits at 177 feet within Orris Falls I, fed by the Branch Brook, in the coastal lowlands of Maine.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Orris Falls is well-marked and passes through a mix of forested areas, wetlands, and rocky terrain. Along the way, visitors can explore other features of the conservation area, including the 'Big Bump' glacial erratic and remnants of old homesteads. The waterfall itself is seasonal and may not flow during dry periods.
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 Orris Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Orris Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring is the best time to visit Orris Falls, as the waterfall is most likely to be flowing due to snowmelt and rain.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall, especially after rain. Ticks are common in the area, so take precautions to avoid bites.
Current Water Conditions
6 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 17 years of record
1.61 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 nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Branch Brook near Kennebunk, Maine (15 km away).
Today
Low
6 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Moderate
7 cfs
5/10Sun
Moderate
6 cfs
5/10Mon
Moderate
7 cfs
5/10Tue
Moderate
6 cfs
5/10Wed
Low
7 cfs
6/10Thu
Low
7 cfs
6/10Best window: Wed — low flow, partly sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late February to mid 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 South Berwick 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 71 feet through Orris Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 189 feet.
The ground changes about 41 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 34 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
- 189 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 71 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
Orris Falls is located in the town of South Berwick, Maine. The trailhead can be accessed from Emery's Bridge Road, where there is a small parking area for visitors.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
A small parking area is available at the trailhead on Emery's Bridge Road. Parking may be limited during busy times.
Hours
Elevation
177 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.275278° N, -70.710833° W
Land Management
Managed by NGO
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit in the spring or after heavy rain for the best chance to see the waterfall flowing. Wear sturdy footwear as the trail may be muddy or uneven in places. Arrive early to secure parking, especially on weekends.
Where to Stay
Auberge on the Cove
Holiday Inn Express - Wells-Ogunquit-Kennebunk by IHG
Anchor Inn and Cottages Wells-Ogunquit
Colonial Inn
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 nearby Mount Agamenticus offers additional hiking trails and scenic views.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Keep an eye out for amphibians in the wetlands.
Cities near Orris Falls
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