A Quick Walk to a Big Waterfall
Houston Brook Falls is one of the easiest waterfalls to reach in Maine. The trail from the roadside parking area to the base of the falls takes about 10 minutes, following a well-worn path through tall cedars and mixed forest along the banks of Houston Brook. At the end of that short walk, the brook drops roughly 40 feet over a broad rock face into a pool at the base. It is a waterfall that punches well above its weight for the effort required to see it.
The falls sit in Pleasant Ridge Plantation, a small unorganized township in Somerset County. The nearest services are in Bingham, about 5 miles to the east on Route 201, the Old Canada Road Scenic Byway. This is deep inland Maine, where the towns are small, the forests are thick, and the rivers run cold.
The Trail
The trailhead parking is along Pleasant Ridge Road, next to a fenced transfer station yard. A white sign on a tree marks the start of the trail. From there, the path drops gently downhill through a cedar grove, crossing a few damp spots on simple log bridges. The shaded, damp cedar grove holds black flies in June and mosquitoes into July, so bring bug and tick protection. The trail is about a quarter mile one way (roughly half a mile round trip) and easy, with minimal elevation change until the final descent to the falls.
The footing is mostly packed earth and roots, with some muddy sections after rain. Sneakers will work in dry conditions, but hiking boots with some grip are better after wet weather and on the slick rock near the pool. The trail is not formally maintained like a state park trail, but it is well-worn from foot traffic and easy to follow.
The trail continues upstream above the falls, where there are additional pools and small cascades along Houston Brook. These upper pools are less visited and offer quieter spots for wading and sitting on the rocks. On a hot summer day, the upstream stretch is worth exploring.
The Falls
Houston Brook Falls is a broad, horsetail-style waterfall. The water fans out across a wide rock face as it drops, rather than concentrating into a single narrow column. This gives the falls a gentle, curtain-like quality that looks different depending on the water level. In spring, with snowmelt pushing the flow up, the entire rock face is covered in a sheet of white water. By late summer, the flow narrows to several distinct channels trickling down the ledge.
The pool at the base is a collection of natural rock pools that vary in depth. The main pool is roughly three feet deep in most spots, large enough for wading and cooling off. The water is crystal clear, cold enough that you can see your feet on the rocky bottom, and bracingly refreshing even in July. Water shoes are a good idea, as the bottom is rocky.
The falls face roughly south, so they catch good light through the middle of the day. Morning visitors will find the falls in shadow, while afternoon light hits the rock face directly.
The rocks around the falls and at the top of the ledge are wet and slippery year-round. Do not climb the cliff face alongside the falls. Several people have been injured attempting to reach the top from the base. The trail provides safe access to both the bottom and top of the falls.
Swimming
The swimming hole at the base of Houston Brook Falls is one of the main draws, especially in summer. The pool is shallow enough for children to wade safely in spots, though the rocks on the bottom require care. The water is cold but refreshing on a hot day.
Above the falls, Houston Brook has several deeper pools that locals use for swimming. These are reached by following the trail upstream from the top of the falls. The upstream pools are somewhat deeper and more secluded than the main pool at the base.
Houston Brook Falls is on private property but has been kept open to public access by the landowner. Return the favor by packing out everything you bring in, staying on the trail, and leaving no trace. If people abuse the access, it could be closed. There are no trash cans, no restrooms, and no facilities.
Combining with Moxie Falls
Houston Brook Falls pairs well with a visit to Moxie Falls, about 30 minutes north in The Forks. Moxie Falls is dramatically taller at about 90 feet but requires a longer hike. Visiting both in a single day gives you two of Somerset County’s best waterfalls with very different characters: the accessible, swimmable Houston Brook and the towering, gorge-set Moxie Falls.
When to Go
Spring
Peak water flow from snowmelt. The falls are at their widest and most dramatic. Trail can be muddy. Black flies in June.
Summer
Swimming hole at its best. Reduced water flow but still scenic. Warm enough to enjoy the cold water.
Fall
Fall foliage in the cedar grove. Moderate water flow. Fewer visitors than summer.
Winter
Falls may partially freeze. Road access can be difficult. Snowshoes helpful on the trail.
Packing List
Houston Brook Falls Visit
- Water shoes (rocky pool bottom)
- Towel and swimsuit (if swimming)
- Camera
- Bug spray (June and July)
- Snacks and water
- Trash bag (pack out everything, private property)
- Sturdy shoes for the trail
Getting There
From Bingham, take Route 16 west across the Kennebec River. Turn right onto Pleasant Ridge Road and continue 3.3 miles to the trailhead parking on the right, next to the transfer station yard. A sign marks the trail. From Route 201 (the Old Canada Road Scenic Byway), the turnoff for Route 16 is in the center of Bingham.
The drive from Portland takes about 2 hours and 45 minutes. From Bangor, expect about 1 hour and 45 minutes.
GPS coordinates for the trailhead: 45.0520, -69.9180
FAQ
How tall is Houston Brook Falls?
Houston Brook Falls drops approximately 40 feet over a broad rock face. Some sources list the height anywhere from 30 to 40 feet depending on where the measurement starts, but 40 feet is the most commonly cited figure.
Can you swim at Houston Brook Falls?
Yes. There is a swimming hole at the base of the falls with natural rock pools roughly three feet deep. The water is cold but refreshing in summer. Water shoes are recommended for the rocky bottom.
How long is the hike to Houston Brook Falls?
The trail is about a quarter mile one way (half mile round trip), taking roughly 10 minutes to walk. The path is mostly flat with a gentle descent to the falls. It is one of the easiest waterfall hikes in Maine.
Is Houston Brook Falls on public land?
No. The falls are on private property that the landowner has generously kept open to public access. Pack out all trash and stay on the trail to help preserve this access.
Can you visit Houston Brook Falls and Moxie Falls in the same day?
Yes. Moxie Falls is about 30 minutes north in The Forks. Both are short hikes, and visiting both makes an excellent waterfall day trip in Somerset County.
