Maine’s Vibrant Gorge Waterfall Attracts Visitors from Across New England for a Peaceful Swim

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Maine's Vibrant Gorge Waterfall Attracts Visitors from Across New England for a Peaceful Swim

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Part of what makes New England villages so picturesque and charming is their hidden natural gems, and when it comes to special aqua adventures like leaping off cliffs into refreshing ponds and relaxing by glacial mountain pools, the region has it down pat. The northeastern states are also teeming with waterfalls — so many that an entire guidebook has been written about them. One of these waterfalls, Smalls Falls, is just outside of Phillips, Maine. A perfect hidden oasis with a cascading waterfall, this water-filled paradise attracts people from all over New England.

Smalls Falls may be a bit of a misnomer, since the entire waterfall cascades from a height of 54 feet. That being said, the waterfall is segmented into a series of plunge pools, dividing the rushing water into smaller falls spanning from 3 feet to 25 feet. The rushing water careens down colorful boulders; the gray, ochre, and maroon rocks blend beautifully down the craggy gorge. Leafy green trees tower over the scene, providing welcome shade and a complementary backdrop.



Choose your own adventure at Smalls Falls

Water flows down boulders at Smalls Falls

The trail leading to Smalls Falls is about a 10-minute drive west of Phillips. The solitary road winds through a forest and crisscrosses the Sandy River, which feeds the falls. Once you reach the rest area on Maine Route 4, you can park and use the restrooms before setting off on a short 5-minute hike that leads to the beautiful spectacle. 



Smalls Falls is a natural jungle gym of exhilarating waterfalls and pools, its various levels providing a choose-your-own-adventure-style playground of splashy thrills. The smallest cascade is only 3 feet high but plunges into a 20-foot-wide pool that’s perfect for kids. Next up is a 14-foot waterfall where people try out their cliff-jumping skills. The tallest is a 25-foot waterfall, which is also home to a refreshing pool. Swimmers luxuriate in the deep, clean water at Smalls Falls, while others sun on top of boulders and take in the scene.

It should be noted that trails around the falls can be slippery. Past visitors also warn about roots in the way and drop-offs that could take children by surprise. Cliff jumping here is also dangerous and has led to a fatality before. So, exercise caution if you plan to hike between the falls or hang out on the cliffs.

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Plan your visit to Smalls Falls

A waterfall cascades down rocks in the winter

Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.