LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Poplar Hill Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Poplar Hill Falls
Poplar Hill Falls is a scenic waterfall located in Maine, known for its serene surroundings and natural beauty. The falls are part of a forested area, offering visitors a peaceful retreat into nature. The flow of the falls may vary depending on the season, with spring and early summer typically providing the most robust water flow.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Poplar Hill Falls is relatively short and easy, making it suitable for most visitors. It winds through a forested area with gentle terrain, leading to a picturesque view of the falls. The path may be uneven in some sections, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful hike through a wooded area, culminating in a view of the cascading falls. The area around the falls is typically quiet and offers opportunities for photography and relaxation.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Poplar Hill Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Poplar Hill Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the water flow is usually at its peak. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warmer weather for a comfortable hike.
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 avoid visiting during heavy rain or icy conditions.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Kennebec River, 2.4 miles away, not on Poplar Hill Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
834 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 123 years of record
2.37 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
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Kennebec River at The Forks, Maine (4 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
834 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
924 cfs
2/10Sat
Low
941 cfs
4/10Sun
Barely Flowing
845 cfs
4/10Mon
Barely Flowing
796 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
840 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
845 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late April to mid June, 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 Kingfield hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Poplar Hill Falls Frozen?
Updated about 5 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately strong flow slows freezing
Poplar Hill Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 41°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
- 865 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.
The ground through the falls loses about 52 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 626 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 70 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 73 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing south, 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
- 626 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 52 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- South
- 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 south).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Poplar Hill Falls is located in a rural area of Maine. Access details may vary, so it is recommended to consult local resources or trail guides for the most accurate directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is uncertain, but visitors may find small parking areas or roadside spots near the trailhead. It is advisable to arrive early during peak seasons to secure a spot.
Elevation
627 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.344218° N, -70.011730° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes, as the trail may have uneven sections. Bring insect repellent during warmer months, as bugs can be prevalent. Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking.
Where to Stay
Charming Bingham Home Near Outdoor Adventure, Pet Friendly!
The Sterling Inn
All-Season Sanctuary: Steps to Moosehead Lake
Fun on Moosehead 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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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other natural attractions in the area may include hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and small lakes or ponds.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be mindful of their surroundings and avoid disturbing the animals.
Nearby Waterfalls
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