Grafton Notch Is an Underrated State Park That Will Impress You This Fall

Maine seems to truly have it all when it comes to landscapes. Mountains? Take your pick. Wetlands? Yep. Forests? The whole state is practically one forest (it’s actually the most forested state in the United States). Then, of course, there’s the famous rugged coastline where the popular lobsters can be found. There’s even a desert of sorts! Although, it’s not natural. This bounty of natural beauty has led Maine to become a world-renowned spot for outdoor activities. This means that none of the national or state parks are underrated in a way that truly befits the word. However, there is one state park that deserves more credit for what it can offer, especially during the autumn. 

Grafton Notch State Park is located in the southwestern part of Maine near the New Hampshire border. Due to its more rugged terrain and distance from the coast, this state park is visited more by locals and serious backpackers rather than casual tourists. This is a shame, because although the park is a more rural state park option, this means that the forests are virtually untouched and thick with vegetation, something that is highlighted best in the fall when the leaves change color. 

The beginning of autumn marks a turning point for all of Maine, but it is especially noticeable in Grafton Notch, where the very hills themselves seem to have been painted with a brush coated in deep reds and crisp yellows. This, combined with waterfalls that pour over imposing cliffs and mountains that loom above (Old Speck is the fourth-highest mountain in the state), means that this state park is a photographer's haven in the fall. Luckily, the Grafton Notch Scenic Byway offers a multitude of opportunities to grab the perfect shot!

As mentioned, the land in this state park is rather rugged. It actually carries the most difficult part of the Appalachian Trail (roughly 12 of the 2,200-mile trail). But, for those not looking for an intense backpacking opportunity, there are also a few easier hikes that just so happen to lead to some of the most scenic parts of the state park: the Screw Auger Falls trail, the Mother Walker Falls trail, and the Moose Cave trail!

For wildlife enthusiasts, there’s also the Maine Birding Trail, a popular option for viewing around a hundred bird species. Additionally, although hunting is forbidden in the fall, there are still plenty of opportunities to see wildlife, namely bears, deer, moose, foxes, beavers, and birds (of course). But, for those looking more for fall activities in civilization, rather than in the great outdoors, the nearby town of Fryeburg has a local fair every autumn with a focus on the harvest. 

There’s not really a chance that anyone could regret a visit to any one of Maine’s state or national parks. They are, simply put, absolutely stunning. However, each park carries something unique about it, and some have far larger crowds than others. So, if you’re looking for a less-crowded and more rugged state park to visit in the fall, why not try Grafton Notch? 

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