Some of the most beautiful nature to see in Maine doesn't necessarily require a whole lot of effort. In fact, one of our favorite destinations requires no hiking at all! Today we're featuring a canyon that's one of the most beautiful around and while we might be sightly biased, we'd argue that it's even more beautiful than what you might find out West.
Coos Canyon is located right off of Route 17 near Byron, in the Rangeley Lake area. You can't miss it when driving through the area.
And best of all, this place is accessible by car so now need to even get out if you like your nature experiences to require no hiking whatsoever!
Have you been to this beautiful canyon in Maine before? Isn't is perfect?Coos Canyons is located near Rangeley and can be accessed by parking in the lot just in front of the falls. The area is accessible year-round, but most visitors plan to go in the spring and summer when they can swim.
Exploring the nature of Maine is one of the best ways to enjoy your time in Vacationland. In addition to hiking, beaches, and beautiful parks we’ve also got a fair few lesser-known natural places in Maine. Some of the best are the caves that dot both the coast and the inland region. We might not be known for these geological wonders, but they’re no less impressive than our many mountains and beaches. The best part? You’re not likely to find a lot of crowds at any of these spots. The Devil’s Den cave in Roxbury is one of our favorite caves in Maine. It’s far less known than places like Moose Cave in Grafton Notch and it comes complete with a roaring waterfall! You’ll want to see this hidden cave for yourself.
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The tiny town of Roxbury, in Oxford County, has a population of about 360 people. But what is lacks in population, it makes up for in natural beauty, including the Appalachian Trail!
Maine is full of wonder! It's vast forests hide some truly spectacular natural terrain, including this waterfall cave in Maine.
One of the most beautiful ways to enjoy this small town is by going in search of Devil's Den, a lesser-known cave located just a stone's throw from the Silver Ripple Cascade.
There are two ways to access the devils den trail and this wonderous cave in Maine. You can either drive along a dirt road to the Norton Hill Road - Moody Road junction, or you can opt for the Brownfield Trail access path. Follow signs and you are sure to be on the right path.
In fact, the easiest way to find the cave is by first locating the waterfall.
The waterfall is comprised of cascades, horsetails and some other smaller plunges that run about 100 feet down through a Jurassic Park-looking gorge. It's a waterfall cave in Maine like no other.
At the bottom you'll find a swimming hole perfect for splashing around. There's even an area in the falls perfect for some (very careful!) cliff jumping.
The caves and falls can be found below the small bridge on Devil's Den Road by following the trail downstream, making sure the small brook is on the right.
Find the Devils Den trail to journey onwards to this incredible cave in Maine. See stunning views of Porter Hills.
Walk about 150 feet to the base of the falls where you'll find the swimming hole. But be careful as it can be easy to lose your footing on the downward walls of the cave side.
Locals call the cave the Poor Man's Ice Castle, however, the cave's ice features are nothing to scoff at! This waterfall cave in Maine when frozen is quite a wonder in itself and worth taking the time to explore.
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The cave itself is deep and mossy, making the experience feel otherworldly. During the warmer months during the year, you'll be nice and cool here.
Take ME 120 east for about half a mile. You'll cross the bridge over the Ellis River before turning left onto South Arm Road. Continue on South Arm Road headng north for about 2.5 miles and then take a left where the road forks.
Continue on South Arm Road for about 2 more miles before taking a left onto a dirt road with no signs. In your Maine Gazetteer, this road be included as Devil's Den Road. Next, head a bit further east on Devil's Den Road and you'll come to the bridge over Black Brook. Park on the right before crossing this bridge.
The falls begin about 30 feet down from this bridge and Devil's Den Cave is right there.
For a glimpse of what your hike might look like, check out this short video:
For similar exploration, check out these 6 otherworldly places in Maine that will have you traversing ice and listening to thunderous waves throughout the state.
During winter in Maine, much of the state feels completely frozen solid. But, when the spring rolls around, we all thaw out a bit and get ready for summer fun. But, did you know that the annual thaw doesn’t happen everywhere? There’s one place in Maine that’s actually frozen almost the entire year – winter or not! Make your way to the Debsconeag Ice Caves to experience this impressive natural wonder in Maine.
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The Debsconeag Ice Caves are located in the Debsconeag Lakes Wilderness Area in Millinocket.
The word "Debsconeag" comes from native people in the area and means "carrying place," since they used the area to carry their canoes around rough rivers and waterfalls.
But, during the spring and summer they should be clear for climbing! To be safe, wear ice cleats if you’re visiting during any other season but summer.
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As soon as you enter, you’ll feel the cold! And, it’s pretty incredible to see icicles on the walls while it’s warm outside.
