Ledge Falls is in Baxter State Park, which is not dog-friendly. Dogs aren't allowed at any time to protect the environment. It's probably a smart idea for Ledge Falls anyway, which is a very popular swimming hole.
Waterfall Details
- Type of waterfall:Â Cascades and rapids
- Height:Â 12 feet total, with the steepest single drop being 4 feet
- Active season:Â May through October
- Trail difficulty:Â Easy
- Length to get there:Â Adjacent to the parking area
- Leash rules:Â No pets allowed
This is a scenic spot from the main road but also a great place to get in the water. There's a small sandy beach before the water access point on Nesowadnehunk Stream.
NOTE: This is one of two locations known as Ledge Falls in Baxter State Park. If you find information that requires you to hike 6+ miles, you're at the backcountry location. This location is very easy to access.
Waterfall Safety
The beauty of Ledge Falls is the gentle slope allows some sliding down the rock, but they can be misleading, especially when the water is high. Never underestimate the power of water in these locations. Start far away from the waterfall and gently work your way closer to judge the suction and current.
Plan for mosquitoes, biting flies, and deer flies in the summer. Bug spray won't work against the larger bugs. Ticks are a problem in the Maine woods as well. Every trip should end with a full body scan for bug bites and tick embedding.
CHECK THE WATER: You can look at the water levels and water quality ahead of time, but always ask a ranger when you check in about daily risks.
The parking area is just 100 feet from the water, but you'll be walking on a wooded trail with loose rocks, sand, and potential muddy spots.
Water shoes should be used in any waterfall's swimming hole to give you a better grip on the rocks and prevent cuts. Inflatables are often used here, but you should always buy floatation devices that meet Coast Guard standards. That cheap raft from a dollar store won't last long on these rocks.
Parking at Waterfall
Out-of-state visitors will have to pay an entry fee to get into Baxter State Park, and parking will be included with that. That doesn't mean a parking spot is guaranteed. This lot fills up quickly, and there's no overflow parking area or parking on the road allowed. The rangers will ticket or tow illegally parked cars. You could also get kicked out of the park.
Waterfall Dog-Friendly Rating: F
