Cowyard Falls is found on the back roads of Willimantic, Maine. It's not one of the most popular waterfalls, but that might be just what you're looking for.
Waterfall Details
Type of waterfall: Cascade
Height: 10 feet
Active season: May through October
Trail length: Less than 0.1 miles
Trail Difficulty: Moderate for potential bushwhacking required
Leash rules: Voice control or on a leash
The directions to get here might be elaborate enough to make you think twice, especially since you'll be on logging roads. If you decide to go for it, you'll find respite at this low waterfall with cascades that become more gentle as summer wears on.
There are small pools for swimming. You can explore up the stream to more waterfalls, but you'll have to do some light bushwhacking.
Waterfall Safety
Bushwhacking means bugs, so wear long pants and long sleeves with mosquito netting if the bugs are too much. You'll face mosquitoes and biting flies. Ticks will be an issue too.
The "trail" is wooded, so it can be filled with debris or slippery mud. Watch your step. Wear hiking boots on the trail and switch to water shoes to protect your feet, ankles, knees, and bum.
Always assume rocks around waterfalls in Maine are as slippery as ice. Cowyard Falls has a dark forest vibe to it, with dark rocks, lush greenery, and white caps of water falling down the cascades.
Don't drink the water. Bring your own fresh water as there are no amenities here.
Avoid going here when a storm is approaching, as the roads that weren't flooded on the way in could be flooded on the way out.
Parking at Waterfall
You'll need a high-profile vehicle to get through the series of gravel and dirt roads. Water can be deep, and ruts can come up quickly. At times, the trail might be closed due to Weyerhaeuser logging activity. Never go around a fence or barrier.
The route to get here crosses an airstrip, so you also have to watch out for planes landing. It should be obvious, but just to be clear, logging trucks and airplanes have the right of way. Neither will (or can) stop for you.
Waterfall Dog-Friendly Rating: B
