Howe Brook Falls is in Baxter State Park, just east of Upper and Lower South Branch Ponds. Baxter State Park is not dog-friendly. You actually get two waterfalls for one hike here.
Waterfall Details
- Type of waterfall:Â Multi-step
- Height:Â 20 feet
- Active season:Â May through October
- Trail difficulty:Â Moderate
- Trail length:Â 6.2 miles roundtrip
- Leash rules:Â No dogs allowed
You get the lower falls and upper falls on Howe Brook Trail, with plenty of stunning views along the way as you follow the brook.
The lower falls are more exaggerated in length, falling in steps while creating pools and smaller drops. This goes on for several hundred yards. Plenty of large sections of flat rock are available to take in the scene safely.
At the upper falls, the scene is more thunderous and dramatic, with a 20-foot plunge into the water below. Swimming is possible here, but the water will be very cold, and the force of the waterfall might back you off that idea and make you retreat to the lower falls.
Waterfall Safety
You'll need to watch your footing here, especially between the lower and upper falls. The trail can be washed out in places, and recent weather will determine if you're crossing a brook in a dry spot or through rushing currents of water.
Plan for all the biting bugs—mosquitoes, horse flies, biting flies, and ticks. Check for ticks at the end of your hike and remove all embedded insects immediately.
You should never put your head totally underwater or drink from the brook, no matter how clean the water appears to be. Know how to treat water to filter out dangerous bacteria and other toxins.
Wear water shoes to keep any sharp rocks or debris from piercing your foot and to keep a solid footing on slippery rocks. At the lower falls, stay away from the edge. Those rocks are always slipperier than they look.
Parking at Waterfall
You'll pay a $16 admission fee to the park if you're from out-of-state, but any additional activity like camping or backcountry hiking will cost extra. There is also a special permit for the Appalachian Trail.
Parking is available near South Branch Pond.
Waterfall Dog-Friendly Rating: F
