Cascading Granite and Swimming Holes
Step Falls Preserve protects a stretch of Wight Brook where the water cascades down 250 feet of open granite ledge in a series of steps, slides, and pools. The trail is about a mile round trip and never gets steep enough to make anyone think twice. This is one of the easiest and most rewarding waterfall walks in Maine, and the swimming holes at the base and along the cascades make it a perfect summer destination for families.
The preserve was originally owned by The Nature Conservancy and was transferred to the Mahoosuc Land Trust in 2012. It sits on Route 26 just south of Grafton Notch State Park, making it an easy add-on to a day exploring the notch.
The Trail
The trail begins from a small roadside parking area on Route 26 in Newry. A footpath leads through mixed forest for about a quarter mile before reaching the base of the falls. From there, the trail follows the brook upstream along the edge of the granite cascades.
The lower falls are the tallest single drop and are visible almost immediately after arriving at the brook. As you climb alongside the cascades, you pass a series of pools that get progressively smaller and more intimate. The granite is smooth and sculpted by centuries of water flow, and the pools vary from shallow wading areas to deeper swimming holes.
The trail gains about 229 feet over its length, spread so gradually that it barely feels like a climb. Some sections near the top have roots and a few steeper spots, but nothing that would challenge a reasonably fit hiker or an older child.
Walk all the way to the top of the cascades before choosing your swimming spot. The upper pools are smaller and quieter, and on busy days, the crowds thin out significantly above the first few falls.
Swimming
The swimming holes at Step Falls are the main draw in summer. The water flows over smooth granite ledge into pools that range from ankle-deep wading spots to chest-deep pools large enough to fully submerge. Some of the ledge between pools forms natural slides where the water is flowing fast enough to carry you down to the next pool.
The water is cold, fed by mountain runoff, but on a hot July or August day it is refreshing rather than painful. The granite ledge around the pools warms in the sun and makes a comfortable spot for drying off between dips.
The granite ledge is extremely slippery when wet. Use caution walking near the falls and on any rock that water is flowing over. There are no lifeguards and no railing. Parents should keep close watch on children near the water. Never climb on falls during high water.
When to Go
Spring
Water flow is at its highest from snowmelt. The falls are dramatic but the water is very cold and the pools may be too turbulent for safe swimming.
Summer
Warm days and lower water levels make this the ideal time for swimming. The pools are at their calmest and warmest. Weekends get crowded.
Fall
The surrounding forest turns in late September. Water levels are typically low, and the falls are gentler but still pretty.
Winter
The falls partially freeze and can be interesting to photograph, but the trail and rock are icy. Not a swimming destination in winter.
Step Falls is extremely popular on hot summer weekends. The small parking area fills early, and overflow parking along Route 26 creates congestion. Visit on a weekday or arrive before 10 AM on weekends. A Tuesday afternoon in July is the ideal time: warm enough to swim, empty enough to have a pool to yourself.
Practical Notes
The parking area is a small gravel pullout on the east side of Route 26 in Newry, about 10 miles north of Bethel. There are no restrooms, no trash cans, and no facilities of any kind. This is a pack-in, pack-out preserve. Carry out everything you bring in.
The preserve is free to visit. A donation box at the trailhead supports the Mahoosuc Land Trust’s maintenance and conservation work. Cell service is unreliable in this area.
Step Falls is about 4 miles south of the entrance to Grafton Notch State Park. It pairs naturally with a visit to Screw Auger Falls and Table Rock for a full day in the Route 26 corridor.
Packing List
Step Falls Preserve
- Water shoes or sandals with grip (essential for walking on wet granite)
- Swimsuit and towel
- Sunscreen
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Trash bag (pack out everything)
- Camera in a waterproof case
Getting There
From Bethel, take Route 26 north about 10 miles. The Step Falls parking area is a small gravel pullout on the right (east) side of the road. It is easy to miss if you are not watching for it. Look for the Mahoosuc Land Trust sign. From Portland, the drive is about 2 hours 15 minutes via Route 26 through Norway and Bethel.
FAQ
How long is the Step Falls hike?
About 1 mile round trip. Most people spend 30 minutes to an hour on the trail itself, plus however long they want to swim and sun on the rocks.
Is Step Falls good for kids?
Yes. The trail is easy and the lower pools are shallow enough for wading. The granite ledge is slippery when wet, so supervise children closely near the water.
Is there a fee?
No. Step Falls Preserve is free to visit. Donations to the Mahoosuc Land Trust are appreciated and can be left at the trailhead donation box.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes. Dogs are welcome and should be kept under control. Pick up after your pet.
Can I combine this with Grafton Notch?
Absolutely. Step Falls is about 4 miles south of Grafton Notch State Park on Route 26. Many visitors hit Step Falls for a swim and then drive up to Screw Auger Falls and Table Rock in the same day.
