Posted in Maine September 20, 2018 by

Your Kids Will Love This Gorgeous Waterfall Hike In Maine That’s Under A Mile

There are tons of waterfall to see here in Maine. While a few can be seen with no hiking at all, others require more of an outdoor commitment. But, what about those people who are somewhere in between? If you love seeing waterfalls and enjoy a good hike, but aren’t looking to conquer the likes of Katahdin any time soon, this might be the perfect outdoor excursion for you! An easy hike for kids in Maine is waiting for you.

We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
Kids especially love waterfalls, which is why finding a hike that works for little legs can be so exciting!
Kurt Ewald / alltrails.com
Mainers are lucky that one of the most beautiful (and easy to find!) waterfalls in the state is both easy to find and located in the popular tourist destination of Saco, making for an easy starting point.

This area also comes with some history, as it’s been utilized since the 1800s much the same way it’s used today. Turns out, people have always enjoyed leisure time in the woods, picnicking near a waterfall!

This area was once used as a stand in for the Alaskan Yukon in a silent film in the 1930s.
The less-than-a-mile trip on the Cascade Falls Trail is well-cared for and groomed, making it less likely for intrepid explorers to trip, slip, slide and fall.
Cheryl Siverly Hodaba / alltrails.com
This is also a good trail for those who use wheels - both wheelchairs and strollers have been able to do this trip successfully. But, always do a bit of research in advance as terrain can change based on the weather and other environmental factors.
To begin, head to the parking lot where you’ll find the trailhead leading into hardwood and pine forest.
Kurt Ewald / alltrails.com
Time your visit for the summer and you’ll find wildflowers, mosses and fern lining the entirety of the Cascade Brook area.
After about a quarter of a mile you’ll begin to see the falls. From there, the trail veers away from the Cascade Brook leading to an open area for recreation. You can choose to spend some time here, or continue along the trail to go back to the parking lot.
Bethany Smith / alltrails.com
For a little more adventure, you’ll head left at the sign that says "Falls" where you’ll find a steep trail towards the base of the falls.
Courtney Schirling / alltrails.com
Take extra care here as the trail isn’t maintained and its more challenging than the rest of the route.
The waterfall just after rain is a beautiful sight.
Darryl Gagne / alltrails.com
And the soft thrum of the water is totally relaxing.
Stephen Walsh / alltrails.com
From here you'll head back up from the base of the falls, passing an interesting piece of history along the way!
Kurt Ewald / alltrails.com
Along the path back to the main trail, you’ll come across a large, dilapidated cage.
Bethany Smith / alltrails.com
There are many stories about this cage, the most notable being that it was used for a gorilla who was brought to the woods, but escaped to roam the area. Children loved this story, often getting inside the cage to mimic a Maine-bound gorilla. But the truth is that the cage was used to entertain tourists who visited the area back in the 1950s. Any readers remember this?
Once you’re back on the main trail, make a left and follow the route across an old dam to get back to the parking area.
mLe Frost / alltrails.com
These falls are beautiful and worth a trip if you're in the Saco or Old Orchard Beach area.
Bethany Smith / alltrails.com
For directions from your location to the trail head and parking lot click here f or an interactive Google Map.
Google Maps

The Cascade Falls Trail is maintained by the Saco Bay Trails. Learn more about the organization, these falls and other trails they’re responsible for by checking out their website or visiting them on Facebook.

For more waterfall adventures in Maine, check out our bucket list for people who love waterfalls. This list will take you all over the state and will surely leave you inspired to see more of Vacationland’s outdoors.