Bemis Falls

Deep in the Rangeley Backcountry

Bemis Falls sits on Bemis Stream in Township D, Franklin County, tucked into the forested hills south of Mooselookmeguntic Lake in the Rangeley Lakes region. The falls are part of a longer hiking loop that connects the Appalachian Trail with the Bemis Stream Trail, making this a destination for hikers who want more than a quick roadside stop.

The cascade drops through a narrow channel carved into bedrock, tumbling over a series of ledges in the dense forest. The setting is completely wild. There is no parking lot, no signage at the falls, and no other visitors on most days. You earn this one with your legs.

The Hike

The most common approach follows the Bemis Stream Trail, which departs from Route 17 near the Height of Land overlook. The full Bemis Loop, which combines the Appalachian Trail and Bemis Stream Trail, covers roughly 11 miles plus a 1-mile road section. This is a strenuous full-day hike.

For a more direct route to the falls, follow the Bemis Stream Trail from its trailhead. The trail descends along Bemis Stream through mixed forest, crossing the brook several times. The falls are roughly 2.5 miles in from the Route 17 end of the trail. The crossings can be tricky during high water in spring, so trekking poles are helpful.

The trail is well blazed but sees moderate traffic. Roots, rocks, and mud are standard throughout. Expect the hike to the falls and back to take three to four hours at a steady pace.

The Falls

Bemis Falls is not a single towering drop but a sustained series of cascades where the stream slides and plunges over bedrock ledges through a narrow gorge. The total elevation change across the cascade section covers roughly 30 feet. The rock is dark metamorphic stone, and the surrounding forest is a thick mix of spruce, fir, and birch.

During spring snowmelt, the stream carries impressive volume and the cascades roar through the gorge. By August, the flow is calmer and you can explore the ledges more closely. The pools between the drops hold native brook trout, and the fishing along Bemis Stream is considered some of the best in the Rangeley region for those willing to hike in.

When to Visit

Late May through June offers peak water volume, though the stream crossings are most challenging then. September and early October bring foliage that lights up the hardwoods along the stream, and the combination of fall color and cascading water is stunning.

Practical Notes

There are no fees or permits required for the trail. Parking is along Route 17 at the Height of Land pulloff or at designated trailhead spots. There are no restrooms or facilities at the trailhead.

This is a longer hike through remote terrain. Bring enough water for several hours, food, and rain gear. Cell service is nonexistent along the trail.

Packing List

Getting There

Bemis Falls is in Township D, south of Mooselookmeguntic Lake in the Rangeley Lakes region of Franklin County. Oquossoc and Rangeley are the nearest towns with full services, including restaurants, gas stations, and outfitters. Plan to stock up before heading to the trailhead.

The approach is from Route 17, which runs between Rumford and Oquossoc and is one of western Maine’s most scenic drives. The Bemis Stream Trail trailhead is along Route 17 near the Height of Land overlook. Parking is at the Height of Land pulloff or at gravel pulloffs designated for the trail. There are no restrooms or other facilities.

From the trailhead, the Bemis Stream Trail descends along Bemis Stream, crossing the brook multiple times. The falls are roughly 2.5 miles in. GPS coordinates for the falls are approximately 44.8200, -70.7100. The full Bemis Loop connecting the Appalachian Trail and Bemis Stream Trail is about 11 miles plus a 1-mile road section.

Stream crossings can be knee-deep and fast-moving in spring and after heavy rain, and snow can linger at higher elevations into May. Cell service is nonexistent along the trail, so download offline maps and let someone know your plans before you head out.

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