Spruce Brook Falls is one of only two waterfalls described in this guide that allows visitors to wander behind a waterfall. It is much easier to get behind the falling waters of Bartlett Falls in Vermont, but Spruce Brook Falls is the only other waterfall we are aware of where this is possible. For those who wish to take advantage of such a natural marvel, you will need to scramble down to and hop into the river. Once in the river, you can tuck yourself behind the falling water. This can only be safely done in low water conditions, though. At the base of the main falls, a 15-foot plunge, the rushing water is forced into rocks causing white foam to swirl around and look like a bubble bath. There are rust colored pools, the deepest of which approaches 6 feet of depth. There are cascades above and below, and further downstream there is a petite-sized waterslide, and even a pool with a swirling eddy. Further up the trail and beyond the main falls lies the last noteworthy waterfall—a segmented cascade over an egg-shaped boulder that sits in the center of the brook. The entire fragment of Spruce Brook we are describing lies in a ravine that supports an unusually large variety of plant life. This adds much color to the area. We think it deserves to be a contender as one of the prettiest ravines in all of New England.

From the end of the parking area, take the trail that leads slightly downhill into the woods on the right. Follow this trail for 300 feet and bear left onto a trail that parallels the brook. As you continue up the trail and begin passing the first cascades, expect more steep and slippery terrain. Continue upstream for a short distance for the second and third series of falls here. Footing can become quite difficult, so be careful.

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.

Photograph generously provided by Kris Link.