Ellis Falls

Trying to find all the information about Ellis Falls in Andover, Maine, in one place wasn't very easy until now. Here's everything you need to know to enjoy this surprise spectacle of a roadside waterfall. You just have to know where to look.

NOTE: This is not the same thing as Glen Ellis Falls in New Hampshire and has nothing to do with the popular Maine band Ellis Falls.

Waterfall Details

• Type of waterfall: Horsetail and cascades
• Height: 22 feet
• Active season: April through November
• Trail difficulty: Easy
• Trail length: Roadside, just a short walk
• Leash rules: Voice control or leash

Ellis Falls is a local secret that isn't the biggest waterfall in this part of Maine, but it's certainly worth a stop. Accessing the water is tricky, so this might be a better place to enjoy the view. When the water is rushing in the spring, there's little room to navigate around the edges.

It's a phenomenal feature in a rather flat Ellis River, with a beautiful series of falling water across the dark rocks.

Another fun fact about this area is that just 4,400 feet away is the site of the Andover Earth Station, where the first relay satellite transmission was performed in the 1960s. While the site is now off-limits and dismantled, it's incredible to think that this wooded section of Maine paved the way for the devices we use today.

Waterfall Safety

As with any Maine waterfall, you should expect bugs and slippery rocks, with the potential for muddy steps as you go.

There's no official trail maintenance done here, and direct access is at your own risk. Use caution when approaching and entering the water if you choose to do so. There is no easy route to get closer than the trailside.

As you can see in this video, there are times the water will not be safe enough to enter.

If you're bringing your dog, please remember that the parking is right on a main road, subject to traffic. Keeping your pet on a leash is wise until you get away from the road. This isn't the best spot for an off-leash adventure, even if your pet is under voice control.

Parking at Waterfall

You really need to know what you're looking for, or else you'll miss this waterfall. The small roadside parking area will only fit a few cars, but we doubt you'll run into parking problems. It's 1.1 miles west of the Knotty Moose Cabins & Tavern (and the cabins are dog friendly!).

If you're approaching from the east, it's 1.8 miles from the intersection of Roxbury Pond Road and Rumford Center Drive.

You're looking for a short bridge, the only one of its kind on this road. Park on the side of the road by the bridge, but avoid the private property or driveway of the nearby home. The parking is free. A short trail unmarked will take you to the falls.

Waterfall Dog-Friendly Rating: C