LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Thirtyfoot Falls
Thirtyfoot Falls is a quietly photogenic 30-foot cascade tucked into the woods of Maine. The falls tumble over a rocky ledge into a small pool, creating a compact but scenic destination for photographers and hikers looking for a short nature escape. The site lies within the Pingree Easement on privately owned land and is managed by a nonprofit organization; visitors should be mindful of private‑land rules and access guidelines while enjoying the view.
The Setting
Thirtyfoot Falls sits at 1,243 feet within Pingree Easement, fed by the E. Br. Penobscot River, in the foothills of Maine. The falls drop 30 feet.
Height: 30 feet
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The approach to Thirtyfoot Falls is a moderate 2.4‑mile out‑and‑back route with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain. The trail follows a single path through forested terrain and culminates at the base of the 30‑foot cascade, offering close-up views of the drop. Difficulty is rated moderate; USFS-specific surface, grade, or trail‑class data are not available. The nearest established campground is at Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, about 39.6 km away, so come prepared for a day hike.
What to Expect
The falls drop 30 feet. 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 Thirtyfoot Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Thirtyfoot Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall is likely to have the most water flow due to snowmelt and rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the waterfall, as rocks can be slippery. Avoid visiting during heavy rain or icy conditions, as the trail may become hazardous.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge E. Br. Penobscot River below Grand Lake Matagamon (39 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
301 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
323 cfs
3/10Tue
Low
331 cfs
4/10Wed
Barely Flowing
307 cfs
5/10Thu
Barely Flowing
290 cfs
5/10Fri
Barely Flowing
347 cfs
3/10Sat
Barely Flowing
240 cfs
5/10Best window: Wed — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to late May, 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 Patten 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.
Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 88 feet of drop through Thirtyfoot Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. That is more than the listed 30 feet because the gorge keeps dropping below the falls themselves. The brink sits at about 1,222 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 91 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 26 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
- 1,222 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 88 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
Thirtyfoot Falls is located near the town of Brownfield, Maine. Access is typically via local roads, and visitors should follow signs or GPS directions to the trailhead.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking may be available at a small lot near the trailhead, but space could be limited. Visitors should plan accordingly.
Elevation
1,243 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.412538° N, -69.104773° W
Land Management
Managed by NGO
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes, as the trail may have uneven or muddy sections, especially after rain. Bring insect repellent during warmer months, as bugs can be present in the wooded areas.
Where to Stay
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
Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument Camping and Huts
24.6 miles away · 27 sites
Overview Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument is located in Maine’s north woods. Katahdin Woods and Waters protects part of an extraordinary natural and cultural landscape: the mountains, woods, and waters where the East Branch of the Penobscot River and its tributaries, including the Wassataquoik Stream and the Seboeis River, run freely. Campsites, lean-tos and huts located throughout the monument provide opportunities to stay overnight while hiking, biking, paddling and enjoying other re
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other natural attractions in the area include the Saco River and the White Mountain National Forest.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious and respectful of the natural habitat.
Nearby Waterfalls
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