Sawtelle Falls is a dog-friendly distant waterfall northwest of Patten, Maine. This area is not in a public park or federal land, so you will follow the dog rules of Maine, which simply require your dog to be "under control."
Waterfall Details
- Type of waterfall:Â Horsetail
- Height:Â 12 feet
- Active season:Â May through October
- Trail length:Â .05 miles
- Trail Difficulty:Â Easy to moderate
- Leash rules:Â Pets on a leash or under voice control
WATCH:Â See the Sawtelle Falls in action!
You'll need to be comfortable driving on logging roads and going down an unpredictable path, as downed trees, snow, ice and overgrowth could be on the trail. You shouldn't expect this trail to be groomed or maintained, but you still need to follow the Leave No Trace principles.
The trail will take you right to the edge of the waterfall, which is too dangerous to climb down or walk across. Remember, if you attempt it and fall, there's no help on the way or a ranger who will come by. This remote area is part of its charm, but also one of its downsides.
Waterfall Safety
The water here appears dark and stormy, with a challenging scramble to access any part of Sawtelle Brook that is safe for swimming.
Bugs will be thick in this area at the height of summer. Mosquitoes can be somewhat controlled by bug spray, but biting flies and horseflies—not so much. Read up on the safety guidance from Maine State Parks, as all wilderness areas have similar issues.
This can also be a good fishing spot, but both water seekers and anglers should check the water quality information before going. Don't drink water right from the brook. If you don't know how to filter water, bring your own. It's an easy enough hike to carry your own water without worry.
The edge of this waterfall should not be trusted. Wet ground and loose rocks can be hazardous.
During Maine's hunting season, both you and your pet should wear Hunter Orange. You should also know how to handle wildlife run-ins, as bears and moose can be found in this area.
Parking at Sawtelle Falls
You'll park by the bridge at Scraggly Lake Road, where some rapids are to be found on the west side. This is not the Sawtelle Falls. Parking is free but first-come, first-served. You'll likely be the only one there. You'll walk down a logging road that narrows into a trail.
Sawtelle Falls Waterfall Dog-Friendly Rating: A
