The Cataracts
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (3)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About The Cataracts
The Cataracts is a chain of scenic, cascading falls tucked into the forested slopes of the Mahoosucs in Maine. Nestled within the same broader White Mountain landscape and managed by SPR under the LOTH land unit designation, the falls tumble through a rich canopy of mixed hardwoods and spruce, creating photogenic drops and calm pools that reward photographers and day-hikers alike. The setting feels remote and peaceful while still being accessible on a relatively short outing. The hike to the Cataracts is a compact, rewarding excursion that suits hikers looking for a close-up waterfall experience without a multi-day commitment. The route is an out-and-back roughly 2.4 miles long with about 350 feet of elevation gain and is commonly rated moderate in difficulty. There are no developed campgrounds within 10 km of the falls; the nearest established option is Hastings Campground, approximately 33.36 km away, so plan day-trip logistics accordingly.
The Setting
The Cataracts sits at 1,181 feet within Mahoosucs, fed by the Ellis River, in the foothills of Maine.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Screw Auger Falls (23 ft) lies 5.2 miles to the southwest.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
This is an out-and-back trail of about 2.4 miles total with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain; the route is generally rated moderate. The pathway runs through forested terrain and is typically well marked, leading directly to the series of cascades and viewing spots. Expect natural tread that can become muddy or slippery after rain — sturdy, grippy footwear and trekking poles are recommended for wet conditions. Managed as part of the Mahoosucs land unit by SPR (designation LOTH), the trail is best approached as a short day hike rather than an overnight route.
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 The Cataracts?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at The Cataracts?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfalls are typically at their fullest due to snowmelt and rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The rocks near the waterfalls can be slippery, so exercise caution when exploring the area. Be aware of changing weather conditions, as the trail can become muddy or hazardous after rain.
Current Water Conditions
16 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 45 years of record
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 nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge Ellis River at South Andover, Maine (11 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
15 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
16 cfs
3/10Sun
Low
17 cfs
4/10Mon
Low
17 cfs
4/10Tue
Low
17 cfs
4/10Wed
Barely Flowing
15 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
15 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
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 Bethel 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.
1-meter lidar measures about 128 feet of descent through The Cataracts, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 1,180 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 46 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 53 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
- 1,180 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 128 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
The Cataracts is located near the town of Andover, Maine, within the White Mountain National Forest. Access is typically via East B Hill Road, and the trailhead is marked with a small parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but space may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
1,181 feet above sea level
Coordinates
44.638670° N, -70.860350° W
Land Management
Managed by SPR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during summer weekends. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be slippery. Bring bug spray during warmer months.
Where to Stay
Jordan Hotel
Grand Summit Hotel
River View Resort
Town & Country Inn & Resort
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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Nearby Campground
HASTINGS CAMPGROUND
20.7 miles away · 25 sites
Overview Hastings Campground is located on Route 113 near the shore of Evans Brook in western Maine. It is situated in a rustic and remote part of White Mountain National Forest, not far from the towns of Gilead Me and Gorham, New Hampshire. Activities include fishing, hiking and mountain biking. The White Mountains boast pristine forests, clear mountain streams and rivers and the tallest peaks in the Northeast. The forest encompasses nearly 800,000 acres in New Hampshire and western Maine, and i
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Screw Auger Falls and the Appalachian Trail, both of which are within a short drive.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of ticks during warmer months.
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
Other waterfalls named The Cataracts
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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