Maine's Most Easily Accessible Waterfall Is Hiding In Plain Sight At The Side of Route 17
By Michelle|Published March 28, 2022
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Michelle
Author
Michelle's life is a colorful map of exploration and adventure. From the iconic streets of New York to the sunny shores of Florida, the jagged coast of Maine to the rugged terrain of Montana, she's been fortunate to call some of America's most beautiful states home. Beyond the U.S., Michelle's wanderlust has taken her on a motorcycle journey through India, led her to teach English in Hanoi, and saw her studying Spanish in Guatemala. Michelle graduated with a communications degree from the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and in addition to a career in advertising has worked with OnlyInYourState since 2016, where her love for travel and storytelling converges. Alongside writing and exploring, Michelle finds joy in photography, staying active, and time with her family.
For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.
Throughout the state, there’s nature and beauty to be found. But, not everyone is looking for a hike in the great outdoors. That’s why we love the beauty that can be found just by knowing where to look. Adventure websites will have you believing that you need to be an intrepid explorer to see the best of the world, but the most accessible waterfall in Maine proves otherwise!
Located in Byron, just off of Scenic Route 17, Coos Canyons can easily be considered one of the most obvious waterfalls in Maine.
But if you're not sure what you're looking for, it's easy to miss! Be sure to look out for the signs at the side of the road. This can be a bit difficult considering just how beautiful the journey itself is.
Once you arrive, you'll be pleased to see that you don't need to travel far to see it. In fact, it's possible to see the waterfall right from your car.
The cascade-style waterfall has a drop of about 15 feet. Carved by the Swift River, there are lots of curves leading up to the area you'll see from the parking lot.
You can visit year-round. Winter offers a special feel, but from April to November, the water is likely to be rushing with the spring snowmelt and the summer rain.
It's easy to see the area from your car, but if you'd like to get closer there's plenty of space to explore. The rocks are fun for kids, just be sure to keep an eye on them.
Coos Canyon can be visited year-round simply by pulling off Route 17. You can get out of the car for a closer look, but parts of it are all visible from inside your vehicle. You can also make your way to the swimming hole to enjoy a day of fun in the summer.