Frozen Waterfalls: Discover Maine’s Winter Hidden Gems
Waterfalls in winter? Why, of course! There’s something magical about frozen waterfalls: the way they shimmer in the sunlight, their cascading waters stilled into intricate sculptures of ice. In Maine, where winter transforms the landscape into a wonderland, these frozen falls offer a chance to see nature in a whole new light. Whether you’re a casual explorer or a seasoned winter hiker, these trails to icy cascades will take your breath away.
As a vote of caution, keep your distance from the falls; it’s often hard to determine what’s frozen water and what’s ground when there’s snow cover, and rushing water leaves ice particularly vulnerable. It’s still absolutely worth the experience of hiking to a frozen waterfall, just remember to bring the right gear.
Here’s our list; scroll to the end for the map!
Houston Brook Falls
Moxie Falls
Poplar Stream Falls
Presumpscot Falls
Hadlock Falls
Vaughan Woods Waterfalls
We highly recommend AllTrails+ (50% off via this link until Jan 22 only!) to help you navigate these, and frankly, all trails!
1. Houston Brook Falls
A peaceful winter retreat with a frozen cascade nestled in a snowy woodland setting.
Overview of the Hike: Located just outside Bingham, Houston Brook Falls is a lesser-known gem perfect for a winter hike. The 0.5-mile trail is short but scenic, leading you through pine forests to the falls. In winter, the cascading water freezes into layers of ice, creating a serene and photogenic scene.
Location: Bingham
Distance: 0.5 miles (Out & Back)
Difficulty: Moderate
Trailkeeper: Warren Northeast Timberlands
Insider Tips:
The trailhead is on Pleasant Ridge Road—look for the small parking area.
Bring snowshoes if there’s been recent snowfall; the trail can be untracked. Otherwise, bring spikes.
The falls are a great spot for a picnic—pack a blanket and enjoy the quiet (well, kind of) beauty.
Combine this hike with a visit to Wyman Lake, where you might spot ice anglers at work.
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2. Moxie Falls
One of Maine’s tallest waterfalls, transformed into a massive cascade of ice in winter.
Overview of the Hike: Plunging over 90 feet, Moxie Falls is a year-round showstopper, but its winter incarnation is truly breathtaking. The short trail to the falls is relatively flat, making it an accessible trek for most hikers. Snow-laden trees line the path, creating a serene winter wonderland that feels worlds away from civilization. The frozen falls themselves are a stunning blend of ice columns, frosted mist, and lingering patches of open water.
Location: The Forks
Distance: 2.1 miles (Out & Back)
Difficulty: Easy
Trailkeeper: Maine Bureau of Parks and Lands
Insider Tips:
The trailhead is located off Moxie Falls Road, just outside The Forks.
Dress warmly—wind chills near the falls can be intense.
Pair this hike with a stop at Kennebec Brewing Company in The Forks for a hearty post-hike meal (breakfast, lunch, or dinner! Check the link above for winter hours)
Watch for river otters sliding along the icy banks near the falls.
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3. Poplar Stream Falls
A double waterfall tucked in the woods near Sugarloaf, offering a wintery escape after a day on the slopes.
Overview of the Hike: A favorite among locals, Poplar Stream Falls features two cascading drops, both of which freeze into dazzling icy displays in winter. The 1.5-mile trail meanders along the Poplar Stream, with plenty of opportunities to admire the surrounding snow-covered pines and frozen tributaries. The tranquil setting makes this a perfect spot for a quiet winter outing.
Location: Carrabassett Valley
Distance: 5.9 miles (Loop)
Difficulty: Moderate
Trailkeeper: Maine Huts and Trails
Insider Tips:
Park at the Maine Huts & Trails Poplar Hut trailhead.
Consider combining this hike with an overnight visit to the nearby Poplar Hut, where you can warm up by the fire, sip some hot drinks and down some well-earned food.
Watch for tracks of moose or deer in the snow—they’re frequent visitors to this area.
Plan your timing carefully—the falls are most impressive during mid-afternoon light.
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4. Presumpscot Falls
A surprisingly wild waterfall just minutes from Portland, frozen into striking ice flows in winter.
Overview of the Hike: Located along the Presumpscot River, this urban escape offers a peaceful, scenic hike culminating in the dramatic Presumpscot Falls. In winter, the roaring rapids are replaced by massive icicles clinging to the rocky outcrops, creating a natural ice sculpture exhibit. The easy 2.5-mile out-and-back trail follows the river, winding through snow-dusted woods and offering several viewpoints of the falls.
Location: Falmouth
Distance: 2.5 miles (Out & back)
Difficulty: Easy
Trailkeeper: Portland Trails
Insider Tips:
Traction devices are a must—the trail can be icy and slippery.
Spot waterfowl and bald eagles along the river even in winter.
Arrive during early morning hours to see the ice shimmering in the golden light of sunrise.
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5. Hadlock Falls
A picturesque waterfall nestled in Acadia National Park, easily accessible even in winter.
Overview of the Hike: Set along the Carriage Roads of Acadia, Hadlock Falls is a quintessential Maine waterfall that’s even more stunning when encased in ice. The falls are part of the Hadlock Brook Loop, a 2-mile trail that winds through forests and over stone bridges, all blanketed in snow. The journey feels like stepping into a storybook winter landscape.
Location: Mount Desert
Distance: 2 miles (Out & Back) - The AllTrails loop below is part of a longer loop; if you zoom in on the map you’ll find the falls along the Hadlock Brook section!
Difficulty: Moderate
Trailkeeper: Acadia National Park
Insider Tips:
Start your hike from the Brown Mountain Gatehouse on Route 198.
Combine this hike with another one from our Ultimate Guide to Winter Hiking in Acadia.
Look for tracks of snowshoe hares and other winter wildlife along the path.
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6. Vaughan Woods Waterfalls
A blend of history and natural beauty, with multiple small cascades along a scenic, family-friendly trail.
Overview of the Hike:
Known locally as Hobbitland, Vaughan Woods is an enchanting place to explore in any season, but winter brings its own special magic. The 1.5-mile trail network features stone bridges, historic ruins, and several small waterfalls that freeze into intricate ice formations. The largest cascade tumbles over mossy rocks, now encased in crystalline layers of ice.
Location: Hallowell
Distance: 1.9 miles
Difficulty: Easy
Trailkeeper: Vaughan Woods & Historic Homestead
Insider Tips:
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places - the 1794 house converted into a museum is a must-see. Follow them on Facebook for more info here.
Parking is limited, especially on the weekends - only park in the designated spots or you may get towed! (The correct trailhead is in the map at the bottom of the page - and there’s an alternate trailhead behind Hall-Dale school).
Keep an eye out for red fox tracks and snow buntings flitting through the woods.
After your hike, warm up with a visit to nearby Hallowell’s antique shops and cafes.
Wrapping It Up—Chasing Maine’s Frozen Falls
Hiking to Maine’s frozen waterfalls is like stepping into a winter fairytale. Each trail offers a unique blend of icy beauty, peaceful surroundings, and a chance to appreciate the transformative power of winter.
Whether you’re marveling at the towering cascades of Moxie Falls or exploring the whimsical trails of Vaughan Woods, these hikes promise unforgettable memories and a fresh appreciation for Maine’s natural wonders.
So grab your warmest gear, lace up those boots, and head out to discover these frozen masterpieces—nature’s own icy artwork, waiting just for you.
See you out there,
Maine Hikes team
Getting into winter hiking? Check out our winter hiking articles, and gear checklist!
