Skew Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (2)
About Skew Falls
Skew Falls is a named falls on the Fish River in northern Aroostook County, Maine, between Fish River Lake and Portage Lake, near the hamlet of High Landing. It appears on USGS maps, but we found no published trail, photos or description of it.
Trail & Hike Details
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful and secluded experience at Skew Falls. The waterfall flows over a series of rocks, creating a cascading effect that is particularly beautiful after heavy rainfall. Wildlife sightings are possible, and the surrounding forest adds to the tranquil atmosphere.
Accessibility
The trail to Skew Falls is not wheelchair accessible and may be challenging for individuals with mobility issues due to uneven terrain and elevation gain.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Skew Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Skew Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall is typically more active due to snowmelt and rainfall. Fall offers stunning foliage, while summer provides warmer weather for hiking.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Cell service may be limited in the area, so plan accordingly.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Allagash River, 23.1 miles away, not on Skew Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
721 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 97 years of record
2.58 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 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 (37 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
779 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
738 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
738 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
699 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
727 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
710 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
688 cfs
5/10Best window: Tomorrow — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
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 Skew Falls Frozen?
Updated about 6 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately strong flow slows freezing
Skew Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 38°F to 32°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 730 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 28 feet of drop through Skew Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 688 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 24 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 23 feet in the 500 feet below. 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
- 688 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 27 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
Skew Falls is located in a remote area of Maine, and access typically requires navigating forest roads. Directions may vary depending on the starting point, so it is recommended to consult local maps or GPS for guidance.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may consist of small pull-off areas along nearby roads. Visitors should plan accordingly and avoid blocking access for others.
Elevation
692 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.842541° N, -68.719212° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring a map or GPS device, as the trail may not be well-marked. Bug spray is recommended during warmer months, and visitors should carry enough water and snacks for the hike.
Where to Stay
Portage Lakeside Cabins in Portage Lake, ME
Spacious Eagle Lake Home w/ Fireplace & Deck
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
Other hiking trails and natural attractions in the region may be worth exploring. Check local guides for recommendations.
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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