Moxie Falls

About Moxie Falls

Standing at the edge of the viewing area, you hear Moxie Falls before you see it — a deep, resonant roar that rises through the trees like a distant thunderstorm growing closer with every step. When the forest finally opens up, the sight stops you cold: nearly 90 feet of white water crashing in powerful, multi-tiered cascades down a dramatic rock face into a deep, clear basin far below. Moxie Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in all of New England, and arriving here feels less like reaching a destination and more like stumbling into a discovery the forest has been keeping.

The Setting and Landscape

Moxie Stream carries snowmelt and rain through the dense forests of western Maine before launching itself off this magnificent ledge near The Forks. The surrounding forest is lush and enveloping — a mix of conifers and hardwoods that drape the gorge walls in vivid green through summer and ignite in deep amber, crimson, and gold come autumn. An ethereal mist drifts up from where the water strikes the pool below, cooling the air even on warm July afternoons and giving the whole scene a slightly otherworldly quality. Ferns cling to mossy boulders along the stream banks, and if you sit quietly for a few minutes, you may spot birds and other wildlife moving through the trees nearby.

Swimming at Moxie Falls

The deep swimming basin at the base of the falls is the reward for those willing to make the short hike in. Fed by the constantly churning cascade, the water is cold, clear, and bracingly fresh — the kind of swimming experience that makes a warm summer day feel electric. The pool's depth offers ample room for swimmers to move around safely away from the base of the falls itself, and the clarity of the water lets you see well beneath the surface. This is an unofficial, natural site with no lifeguards or supervised facilities, so swimmers should exercise their own good judgment, particularly with children or less confident swimmers. The mist from the cascade drifts across the pool on calmer days, adding to the immersive, almost cinematic atmosphere of the place.

Planning Your Visit

Reaching Moxie Falls requires a moderate one-mile hike along a well-marked trail. The path is generally manageable for most visitors but features uneven terrain in spots and can become slippery after rain, so sturdy footwear is strongly recommended. Summer is the prime season for swimming and enjoying the surrounding greenery, while fall brings exceptional foliage that frames the falls in spectacular color. Spring visits reward you with the waterfall at its most powerful, swollen with snowmelt and roaring with intensity — though swimming conditions are best saved for warmer months. Winter access may be limited depending on conditions. Fees and available facilities have not been confirmed, so come prepared with everything you need for the day. Moxie Falls is located near The Forks and is conveniently accessible from the nearby towns of Skowhegan and Waterville, both of which offer lodging, dining, and supplies for a longer regional adventure in western Maine.