Cascade Stream Gorge is a 0.9 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Rangeley, Maine that features a waterfall and is rated as moderate. The trail offers a number of activity options. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
In 1978 Cascade Stream Gorge was listd in the Maine State Planning Office’s Register of Critical Areas because of its natrual, scenic and geological features incuding a stunning gorge that drops 90 feet into the stream. With 50 acres of steep forested land and over a 1/2 mile of frontage on Cascade Stream, this is a popular hike for summer visitors seeking a refreshing spracy of cool air, or lunch at one of the two picnic sites. Cascade Stream flows out of City Pond, which is just to the east of the property and was once the public drinking water supply for the Town of Rangeley.
Rangeley Lakes Heritage Trust 52 Carry Road, Oquossoc ME 04964 (207) 864-7311 www.rlht.org
This hike provides excellent opportunities for photographing wildlife, scenic waterfalls, and local flora. Sturdy non-slip footwear is strongly encouraged as well as keeping a close eye on children close to the steep banks and strong currents. Caution: Rocks are very slippery when wet.
From downtown Rangeley, drive south on Rt. 4 approximately 4 miles to Sandy River Plantation. At the intersection of South Shore Drive and Town Hall Road, take a left. Drive 100 yards, bare left, and then immediatly on your right will be the entrance sign for the trail head. Drive up the steep gravel drive to the parking area.
Scrambly ramble along the stream with hardly a flat set of two steps together, with the calming chatter of small cascades into rock-walled pools, make this short hike both challenging and restful. Kids love the waterfalls and the rocks. Adults relish the peace and calm. Afternoon brings rays of sunshine into the gorge. A miniature Gulf Hagus.
Fun little trail. Rocky and root-y at times. I went off trail a bit, the water was so low, I basically went up the rocks/falls towards the end. There are blue blazes at the end, which I followed for a while, decided to turn back as AllTrails told me I was off trail. After turning around I saw a sign informing me had I continued I would have gone to Saddleback Ski area! Overall great hike, kiddos would love it, lots to explore!
I followed the signs for the waterfall and ended up somewhere else than the recording went, but still found some beautiful falls in the gorge! Well worth the short hike! I parked at the bottom and hiked up the short driveway because the clearance was a little rough for my sedan.
Very nice trail and not a long ways to go. Don’t stop at the first waterfall you see there’s even nicer ones further up.Great for kids. If you are bringing your kids, do not forget to bring an extra set of clothes. My child loved playing in the stream hence the recording that goes in and out of the stream consistently.
Trail starts off steep but levels off with slight incline to the rock. Totally worth it as the rock is massive. I think it looks like a giant snake head from below . I little tricky getting on and off of it. A must do if in the area. A lean to nearby if you want to check it out. Mike
Easy, accessible, quick hike. Rocks can be slippery when wet. Trail has lots of roots over it, not smooth. Cascade is beautiful
Great little gem. Waterfalls are amazing. Hike starts off going up but it's only a mile if that. Parking can be had at the Sandy Plantation Town Hall and walk to the right of the town hall and pick up the trail there. The steep drive to the parking lot is in rough shape.
Beautiful walk along stream during Christmas week. Lots of ice with a gentle roar of water. Dramatic cliffs. Stayed on the trail til it joined Fly Rod Crosby trail... which is also very nice and apparently leads to Saddleback. A number of trees across the trail. Tricky for older people and dogs.