Straddling a half-mile along the Narraguagus River, the 221 acres surrounding Little Falls supports some of the highest densities of juvenile Atlantic salmon found in the river’s lower reaches. The Narraguagus still supports a run of native Atlantic salmon, and is one of eight rivers where the species is federally listed as endangered. With support from the Land for Maine’s Future program and other sources such as the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, the Maine Atlantic Salmon Commission secured permanent protection of the river frontage surrounding Little Falls.
Protection of this shorefrontage helps to ensure continued public access to the Narraguagus River, including an historic holding pool for adult Atlantic salmon. The area also contains a scenic set of rapids (Little Falls) with ledge outcroppings. The fields and woods support a variety of wildlife, including bear, bobcat and woodcock. This additional habitat enhances the wildlife values of the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife’s adjoining Narraguagus Wildlife Management Area Maine Atlantic Salmon Commission, which lies between the main stem and the West Branch of the Narraguagus River.
The protected shorefront does includes one structure (the Frank Gross Salmon Lodge), which is used by the Atlantic Salmon Commission and the National Marine Fisheries Service for salmon recovery research. The lodge includes a public outreach area and provides information on Atlantic Salmon for the general public. The area also provides traditional uses, such as hunting and fishing, and may in the future offer visitor parking and a hand-carry access point to the river.
Closest Town
Cherryfield
Activities
Bird & other wildlife watching, hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, dog walking (on leash), horseback riding, hunting, fishing, mountain biking, snowmobiling, swimming, canoeing, and kayaking
Region
Downeast Maine – Hancock & Washington
Acres
221
Directions from nearest town
DeLorme Maine Atlas and Gazetteer Map 25, D-2. From Cherryfield, go north on Route 193 approximately 4 miles to the Little Falls Field Station.
