Presumpscot Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (3)
About Presumpscot Falls
Presumpscot Falls is a small but historically significant waterfall located on the Presumpscot River in Maine. It is known for its scenic beauty and its role in the area's industrial history, as it was once the site of a dam and mill operations.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
There is limited information about specific trails leading to Presumpscot Falls. Some access points may involve short walks or hikes, while others may provide direct views of the falls from nearby roads or parking areas.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect to see a small but picturesque waterfall surrounded by natural scenery. The area may also feature remnants of historical structures, such as old mill foundations.
Accessibility
Accessibility may be limited depending on the access point. Some areas may not be suitable for visitors with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Presumpscot Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Presumpscot Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the water flow is typically higher due to snowmelt and seasonal rains.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the water, as the river's current can be strong. Be mindful of slippery rocks and uneven terrain.
Current Water Conditions
342 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 15 years of record
2.40 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Presumpscot River near West Falmouth, Maine (3 km away).
Today
Moderate
342 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
373 cfs
5/10Fri
Moderate
390 cfs
5/10Sat
Moderate
391 cfs
5/10Sun
Moderate
359 cfs
8/10Mon
Moderate
339 cfs
8/10Tue
Moderate
344 cfs
8/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, mostly sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early March to early April, peaking in March.
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 Portland hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Presumpscot Falls Frozen?
Updated about 4 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately strong flow slows freezing
Presumpscot Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 53°F to 37°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 348 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.
Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 52 feet of drop through Presumpscot Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall.
The ground changes about 37 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 1 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing southeast, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- -2 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 52 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Catches soft morning 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
Presumpscot Falls is located near the city of Westbrook, Maine. It can be accessed via local roads, and the falls are situated along the Presumpscot River. Specific directions may vary depending on the chosen access point.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may vary depending on the access point. Visitors should look for nearby public parking areas or trailhead parking.
Hours
Elevation
0 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.718136° N, -70.268938° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear if planning to explore trails near the falls. Check local conditions before visiting, as access may vary depending on weather or maintenance.
Where to Stay
Comfort Inn South Portland Airport
Home2 Suites By Hilton Portland Airport
DoubleTree by Hilton Portland, ME
Hilton Garden Inn Portland Airport
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
Nearby attractions include the city of Westbrook, local parks, and other scenic spots along the Presumpscot River.
Wildlife
The area around the falls may feature common Maine wildlife, such as birds, small mammals, and aquatic species.
Cities near Presumpscot Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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