Maine is a paradise for those who love the outdoors. From crashing ocean waves to sky-high mountains, we've got an outdoor activity for just about everyone. But, to be fair, some of what we have to offer isn't for the beginner. Don't fancy yourself an Appalachian Trail hiker anytime soon. That's okay - feel free to ease into things! We recommend starting with some waterfall visits - so take a peek at this Maine waterfalls road trip! Plentiful and impressive, Maine has over 100 significant waterfalls that exist in just about every county from York to Aroostook.

Because a road trip with more than 100 stops is more of a lifestyle change than a fun jaunt, I've created a Western Maine-focused trip you can complete in about five hours of drive time. This will give you the rest of the day to hike, explore, stop for photos at the side of the road, and (most importantly) replenish the snack supply at one of our local stores. We've even included stops for lunch and dinner at some great local spots.

Check out the Google Map that will tell you exactly where to go. You can even make edits to the route to add in a trip to Aunt Edna's on your way home. Let us know if you enjoy this trip, we'll create some that will take you into other areas of the state as well.

Let's get started on your waterfall road trip in Maine!

1. Snow Falls, Oxford County

There are four cascade sets at Snow Falls, which flows from the Little Androscoggin River. If you're behind schedule and need to move along, fear not! You won't be able to swim here, so this one might be quick.

2. Screw Auger Falls, Oxford County

About 45 minutes from Snow Falls, you'll find Screw Auger. These Bear River-sourced falls are comprised of two impressive drops. The first is a 30' drop over a granite ledge into a gorge. The second is just below the first and features another 30' drop. These are heavily visited in the summer but are beautiful any time of year. No swimming, so don't worry about wet car seats.

3. Dunn Falls, Oxford County

A quick 30-minute drive will take you to Dunn Falls, which features two main sections - upper falls and lower falls. Many people feel the lower is the most impressive, but both are worth the fairly strenuous hike it takes to reach them. Plan for about 3 hours if you like stopping along the way. This is one where you can enjoy the water, so add some more time for splashing around.

4. The Cataracts, Oxford County

Head down Andover Road for less than ten minutes, and you'll find yourself at The Cataracts. They are admittedly best in early spring when the snow melts making these falls roar, you'll still have a good time scrambling around the rocks any time of year. Together, the individual falls total about 100' and you'll enjoy swimming and sliding around when it's warm enough. Read more about one of our favorite swimming holes.

5. Coos Canyon, Oxford County

About 45 minutes Northeast and visible from Route 17 scenic highway, is Coos Canyon. Coos is a great place to spend the day. In the summer you can wade in the waters, jump in, or stay dry with a picnic in the connected park. Don't avoid it in the winter though - you can easily pull over to take a look if you want to make this one a quick stop. See how easy it is to get a look at Coos Canyon Falls.

6. Angel Falls, Franklin County

Drive 30 minutes north and you'll reach this well-known waterfall. The 90' plunging falls come from Mountain Brook and take about 30 minutes to reach on the (almost) mile-long trail. Leave the trunks at home as swimming is not allowed. This pretty cascade is even better in the winter.

TAKE A BREAK: Lunch!

You'll be driving north to get to your next stop, so you might as well take a detour to the Rangeley Lakes area. Stop at The Shed BBQ for a casual lunch - the perfect complement to this laid-back road trip. Try the pulled-pork sliders, which have been called "too good to be true." Or, get crazy and order the ribs. Expect to leave VERY satisfied.

7. Smalls Falls, Oxford County

After lunch, continue on to Smalls Falls. Remember, this part of the journey will take you through Rangeley State Park. You'll want to take your time here and enjoy the scenery. Don't be surprised if this portion takes even longer than GPS says it should. Sourced by the Sandy River, Smalls Falls includes four individual cascades and lots of places to swim. Smalls is a classic swimming hole, so if you make the trip in the summer be sure to add in some time for getting in the water.

8. Rumford Falls, Oxford County

After an hour's drive from Smalls Falls, you'll arrive in the town of Rumford, home of cleverly named Rumford Falls. These falls were originally called Pennacook Falls and are created from a series of drops within the Androscoggin River. The river drops about 176 feet, but the creation of dams has split the cascades into several distinct falls. The Upper Falls are the most impressive and you'll be extra lucky if you make it there during a time of high water.

Finally, arrive at Mt. Blue State Park!

During your hour-long drive from Smalls Falls to Rumford Falls, you'll pass through Maine's largest state park, Mt. Blue. Separated by Webb Lake, the area is perfect year-round. In the summer, tackle a hike up the 3,187 foot Mt. Blue. In the winter, enjoy sledding at Center Hill and skating at the park headquarters. You'll find about 25 miles of multi-use trails for just about anything you can imagine doing on a multi-use trail.

Now, grab yourself some Moxie, car snacks, and your favorite fellow adventure lovers and hit the road on this Maine waterfalls road trip! Our next road trip guide will take you up the coast for an all-inclusive visit to Maine's lighthouses. What else would you like to see? Head to the OnlyInMaine Facebook page and let us know. Share some of your favorite waterfalls near you in Maine too!

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/maine/lighthouse-road-trip-me/

Acadia National Park is an incredible natural wonder in Maine. Take a quick look at this video to fall in love like we did: