Seldom is a natural feature found in New England that is truly still “off the beaten path.” Sources have claimed that some of the waterfalls we visited were hidden gems, tucked away from the average traveler and sightseer. In reality, however, there were always at least a few people or traces of recent visitors at these waterfalls. Hay Brook Falls, buried deep in the KI Jo-Mary Multiple Use Forest, is one waterfall exception, remaining as nearly untouched and unspoiled as ever. Equally magnificent and scenic in low or high water, the falls drop a total of 28 feet in three distinguishable steps. The top drop is of particular interest; the waters of Hay Brook travel down a chute, hit an upward sloping slide, change direction by 90 degrees, and crash into a small pool. All drops are surrounded by varying species of moss—the colors of yellow, beige, and green are represented—creating a colorful opportunity for some photographs. A friend that joined us on the trip summed up Hay Brook Falls in a simple sentence; “this is definitely one of my favorite waterfalls.” We certainly agree with that and we believe you will enjoy this remote waterfall as much as we have. For the ultimate experience, you can reserve one of three campsites that are located a few hundred feet downstream of the falls. Inquire at the gate station along the KI Road for additional information.

The difficulty in reaching Hay Brook Falls lies in the drive to the trailhead. Once at the trailhead, however, reaching the falls is pleasantly easy. Simply cross the dirt road and head up another dirt road while passing by the three primitive campsites at Hay Brook. The falls are 0.1 mile further upstream of the campsites.

Directions for this particular waterfall are not posted online. Please see directions in our published guidebook, New England Waterfalls: A Guide to More Than 400 Cascades And Waterfalls, or you can email us and we will happily provide them to you.

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