Red River Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
4.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
400 ft
About Red River Falls
Red River Falls is a scenic waterfall located in Maine, known for its remote and serene setting. The falls are surrounded by lush forest, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and hikers.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 4.5-mile out-and-back trail gains 400 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Red River Falls is a moderately challenging hike through dense forest. The path includes some rocky and uneven sections, as well as a few steep inclines. Hikers are rewarded with stunning views of the falls and the surrounding wilderness.
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 Red River Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Red River Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is in late spring or early summer when water flow is typically at its peak. Fall is also a great time to visit for vibrant foliage.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Hikers should be cautious of slippery rocks near the falls and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Carry a first aid kit and let someone know your plans before heading out.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Allagash River, 19.8 miles away, not on Red River Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
1,100 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 97 years of record
2.96 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average 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 Allagash River near Allagash, Maine (32 km away).
Today
Moderate
1199 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
1189 cfs
9/10Fri
Moderate
1135 cfs
8/10Sat
Moderate
1181 cfs
6/10Sun
Moderate
1159 cfs
6/10Mon
Moderate
1098 cfs
9/10Tue
Moderate
1118 cfs
9/10Best window: Tomorrow — moderate flow, mostly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early April to late 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 Caribou hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Red River Falls Frozen?
Updated about 4 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately north-facing, shaded big river, rarely freezes solid
Red River 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
- 1120 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 30 feet of drop through Red River Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 641 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 24 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 4 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing northwest, 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
- 641 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 30 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- 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 northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Red River Falls is located in a remote area of Maine, and access typically requires navigating unpaved roads. Visitors should use a reliable map or GPS device, as cell service may be limited in the area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited. Visitors should plan to arrive early, especially during peak seasons.
Elevation
640 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.910318° N, -68.730879° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the trail. Bug spray is also recommended, especially in the summer months. Be prepared for limited cell service in the area.
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With 4.5 miles and 400 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Spacious Eagle Lake Home w/ Fireplace & Deck
Portage Lakeside Cabins in Portage Lake, ME
Magnificent Cabin Nestled Amidst Trees in Portage Lake, Maine
Maine Vacation Rental Less Than 1 Mi to Portage Lake Beach
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 other hiking trails and scenic spots in the surrounding forest.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be aware of the possibility of encountering black bears and take appropriate precautions.
Nearby Waterfalls
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