LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Swans Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Swans Falls
Swans Falls is a small, scenic cascade on the Saco River in Fryeburg, Maine. Rather than a dramatic plunge, the falls spread into a gentle, rocky drop and broad rapids that attract paddlers and visitors looking for a peaceful riverside stop. The surrounding woodlands frame the water with seasonal color, and the mellow sound of moving water makes this a great spot for photos, a picnic, or a short nature break while paddling the Saco.
The Setting
Swans Falls sits at 381 feet along the Saco River, in the coastal lowlands of Maine.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Access is via a 2.4-mile out-and-back route with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. The trail follows the river corridor and includes some short, steeper pitches—suitable for hikers comfortable with uneven footing and a moderate grade. There’s no USFS trail number provided here; for current conditions or any campground info, check with the nearby Saco Ranger District (the nearest USFS campground is about 13.7 km away).
What to Expect
Swimming is permitted. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Swans Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $5.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Swans Falls?
✅ Swimming is allowed
When to Visit
Spring and summer are the best times to visit Swans Falls, as the water levels are typically higher, and the surrounding area is lush and green.
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 falls and along the riverbank. Always supervise children and pets near the water. Check water levels and currents before swimming or engaging in water activities.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a USGS gauge 18.8 miles away
435 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 110 years of record
1.63 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
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 Saco River at Cornish, Maine (30 km away).
Today
Moderate
470 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Moderate
459 cfs
8/10Tue
Moderate
442 cfs
9/10Wed
Moderate
434 cfs
9/10Thu
Moderate
436 cfs
9/10Fri
Moderate
449 cfs
9/10Sat
Moderate
467 cfs
6/10Best window: Tue — moderate flow, mostly sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to early June, 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 North Conway 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.
The bare-earth surface loses about 38 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 380 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 35 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 12 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing north, 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
- 380 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 38 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- 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 north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Swans Falls is located near Fryeburg, Maine, and can be accessed via Swans Falls Road. The area is managed by the Saco River Recreational Council, and there is a small parking area near the Swans Falls Campground.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking lot available near the Swans Falls Campground. Parking may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
381 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.038125° N, -70.982569° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early during peak seasons to secure parking. Bring bug spray during the summer months, as mosquitoes can be present. If you plan to kayak or canoe, check water levels and conditions beforehand.
Where to Stay
Admiral Peary Inn
Comfort Inn & Suites North Conway
Home2 Suites By Hilton North Conway, NH
Cambria Hotel North Conway
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.
Nearby Campground
Saco Ranger District
8.5 miles away · 0 sites
Located on the south eastern part of the forest, the District offers a variety of different recreational opportunities. Journey across the Kancamagus Scenic Byway; experience the famous Mt Chocorua area; find solitude in the Presidential Range-Dry River or Sandwich Wildernesses; or discover the beauty along Scenic Route 113. Recreational opportunities are endless: hiking, camping, hiking, biking, fishing, skiing (alpine, cross country, and backcountry), snowmobiling, snowshoeing and much more.
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Fryeburg Fairgrounds, Jockey Cap Rock, and other scenic spots along the Saco River.
Wildlife
The area around Swans Falls is home to various bird species, including herons and eagles, as well as small mammals and fish in the river.
Cities near Swans Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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