Screw Auger Falls
Witness water's artistry at Screw Auger Falls, a unique gorge where the river sculpts rock. Perfect for swimming, picnics, and exploring.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Screw Auger Falls
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness water's artistry at Screw Auger Falls, a unique gorge where the river sculpts rock. Perfect for swimming, picnics, and exploring.
"WOW....I am constantly amazed on how diverse waterfalls are. This one is very impressed by how the water has sculpted its way thru the rock."
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Rocks are slippery and uneven. Good grip is essential for safe exploration. :athletic_shoe:
Swim with Caution
Rocks are slippery, water can be deep. Be aware of underwater cracks. Swim at your own risk. :warning:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Sculpted Gorge
Main gorge area
Witness the incredible artistry of water carving through rock over millennia. It's a unique geological wonder.
Refreshing River Pools
Above the main falls
Cool off in the natural pools before the main cascade. Perfect for a dip on a warm day.
Interactive Rock Exploration
Around the falls
Easily climb on the rocks for diverse viewpoints and a hands-on experience with the falls.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Safety First, Fun Always
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Rocks are slippery and uneven. Good grip is essential for safe exploration. :athletic_shoe:
Swim with Caution
Rocks are slippery, water can be deep. Be aware of underwater cracks. Swim at your own risk. :warning:
Weekday Visits Recommended
Avoid weekend crowds for a more peaceful experience. Weekdays are less busy. :clock1:
Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal with a view. Picnic tables are available near the river. :sandwich:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Sturdy Footwear
Rocks are slippery and uneven. Good grip is essential for safe exploration. :athletic_shoe:
Swim with Caution
Rocks are slippery, water can be deep. Be aware of underwater cracks. Swim at your own risk. :warning:
Weekday Visits Recommended
Avoid weekend crowds for a more peaceful experience. Weekdays are less busy. :clock1:
Pack a Picnic
Enjoy a meal with a view. Picnic tables are available near the river. :sandwich:
Explore the Gorge
Walk through the gorge for a fun and surprising adventure. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the unique, water-sculpted rock formations at Screw Auger Falls, calling it a 'wow' experience. The ability to safely walk on the rocks and swim in the natural pools makes it an interactive and refreshing stop. While some found the drive long for the experience compared to other falls, most appreciate its distinct geological beauty and accessibility.
"We love stopping at this roadside group of waterfalls. You can easily walk on the rocks and view the falls. Small pools for cooling off on a hot day."
Rita Etherington
"WOW....I've been to many waterfalls and i am constantly amazed on how diverse they. This one is very impressed, not so much by the height of the falls but by how the water has sculpted it's way thru the rock over thousands of years. It's very interactive as you can easily climb around to different view points of the crystal embedded rocks."
Connie Conley
"This place was nice but angel falls has it beat. It was fun but the 2 hour drive made it hard to feel like we got the time back."
Amber Riendeau
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Screw Auger Falls is located in Grafton Notch State Park, Maine. Access is typically via Route 26. The falls are often described as a roadside attraction, making them relatively easy to find. Many visitors combine a trip here with other attractions in the park like Moose Cave.
Yes, there is parking available near Screw Auger Falls, often described as roadside. It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up.
The falls are easily accessible from the road. You can walk on the rocks to get different viewpoints. Some trails also lead to the falls, offering a more immersive nature experience.
Screw Auger Falls is a popular day trip from Bethel, Maine. The drive is scenic and takes approximately 30-40 minutes, making it a convenient excursion.
While there aren't typically formal guided tours specifically for Screw Auger Falls, local guides in the Bethel area might offer excursions that include this stop as part of a broader exploration of Grafton Notch State Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Screw Auger Falls is located within Grafton Notch State Park, which is generally free to enter. There are no specific admission fees for viewing the falls themselves.
Grafton Notch State Park, where Screw Auger Falls is located, is typically open from dawn to dusk. There are no set hours for viewing the falls, but it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
Grafton Notch State Park is free to enter, making Screw Auger Falls an accessible natural attraction. This is a significant plus for budget-conscious travelers.
While the park is accessible year-round, visiting during the spring melt-off can mean higher water levels, as seen in some videos. Winter visits might be challenging due to snow and ice.
The main restriction is to be cautious when swimming or climbing on rocks due to slippery conditions and potential hazards. Always follow park guidelines and 'swim at your own risk' advisories.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can admire the unique rock formations sculpted by water, swim in the natural pools, picnic, and explore the surrounding trails. It's a great spot for nature photography. 
Yes, there are small pools before the main falls that are popular for swimming. However, be cautious as rocks can be slippery and water depths can change quickly.
There are various trails in Grafton Notch State Park. Some lead directly to the falls, while others offer rim views or connect to other natural attractions like Moose Cave. The terrain can be rocky.
Yes, families can enjoy Screw Auger Falls. Kids often love playing in the water. However, adult supervision is crucial due to slippery rocks and water hazards.
Consider visiting during the golden hour for soft light. Drone photography can offer unique perspectives of the gorge. Wide-angle lenses are great for capturing the scale of the falls and surrounding landscape.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dining options are limited directly at Screw Auger Falls. It's recommended to pack a picnic to enjoy at the designated spots within Grafton Notch State Park. The nearest towns with restaurants are typically Bethel or Newry.
Absolutely! There are picnic tables available near the river, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
Pack easy-to-eat foods like sandwiches, snacks, and plenty of water. Since there are no facilities, bring everything you need and remember to pack out all trash.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, it's crucial to emphasize safety precautions. The rocks are slippery, and the water can get deep quickly, with potential underwater hazards. Constant adult supervision is a must. Packing a picnic is also a good idea, as there are no food facilities on-site, and enjoying a meal amidst nature is a memorable experience for everyone.
🚶 Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
Be prepared for rocky and potentially uneven terrain on the trails. Wearing sturdy hiking boots is highly recommended. The park's diverse landscape, from dense forests to open gorges, provides a rich environment for nature observation and photography. Combine your visit with other park highlights like Moose Cave for a full day of exploration.
📸 Photographers
Consider visiting during early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting conditions. Long exposures can beautifully capture the movement of the water, creating a dreamy effect. The surrounding natural environment also offers opportunities for landscape and wildlife photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Grafton Notch State Park
The park's landscape was shaped by glacial activity, resulting in the dramatic gorges and smooth, water-sculpted rocks that define Screw Auger Falls. The West Branch of the Pleasant River is the force behind this natural artistry, creating a dynamic and ever-changing environment. The accessibility of the falls, often described as a roadside attraction, makes it a popular stop for those exploring the scenic byways of Maine.
For those looking to immerse themselves further, the park provides opportunities for hiking, swimming, and photography. The trails offer a chance to experience the pristine wilderness of Maine, with opportunities to spot local flora and fauna. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and be mindful of the natural elements, especially when venturing off the main paths or near the water.
+1The Unique Geology of Screw Auger Falls
The name 'Screw Auger' itself hints at the swirling, vortex-like motion of the water as it carves through the bedrock. This continuous erosion creates a dynamic landscape that is both beautiful and awe-inspiring. Unlike many waterfalls that are viewed from a distance, Screw Auger Falls invites you to get up close and personal with its geological artistry.
When exploring the falls, pay attention to the crystal-embedded rocks and the smooth, polished surfaces. These features are testaments to the river's persistent work. While the interactive nature is a highlight, it also means being extra cautious, as the sculpted rocks can be slippery, especially when wet.
Photography Tips for Screw Auger Falls
Consider using a wide-angle lens to capture the full scope of the gorge and the falls, emphasizing the scale of the sculpted rock formations. For more dynamic shots, experiment with long exposure techniques to create a silky, smooth effect of the flowing water. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on wet rocks and enhance the saturation of the water.
Drone photography, as seen in some aerial shots, can provide a unique perspective of the entire gorge and its relationship to the surrounding landscape. However, always be mindful of drone regulations and respect other visitors. Capturing the interaction of people with the falls, like swimming or exploring the rocks, can also add a human element to your photography.
+1
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