Twin Cascades, as the name suggests, is composed of two waterfalls. The falls collectively tumble down in the shape of a “Y.” The waterfall on the right is a 60-foot multi-tiered plunge with rows of cascades at the bottom; the waterfall on the left is similar, except twenty feet taller. Even from the best viewpoints, with your head fully tilted upwards, you cannot see the top of the falls because the water comes from around a bend and the steepness of the gorge blocks your view. From your relative position it is hard to imagine that a substantial water source could exist above these falls. Even from the trailhead, there is not a mountain to be seen that could generate a brook with such water volume or a falls of such great height. It is as if the waters are cascading from the heavens and is a wonderful stretch for the imagination. Trail difficulties and dangers prevent this waterfall from receiving a higher rating. The trail is narrow in spots; your feet could slip—sending you down towards the brook—if you are not careful enough. You will also have to clamber up and over an always slippery dam to attain the best views found here. We must stress that good hiking shoes or boots with solid traction are required equipment here in order to enjoy this place to its full potential.

From the parking lot facing the train tracks, walk over the train tracks and take a left. Walk in the woods parallel to the tracks. The area surrounding the tracks is private property, so do not walk along the tracks. The trail, which is a mere 0.3 mile in length, begins to the right of the train tunnel. Take note that the trail may not be appropriate for amateur hikers, as it is often steep, muddy and slippery. There is also a 3-foot rock wall near the start of the trail that must be climbed over. Also, be particularly careful around the waterfalls. You will be tempted to find alternate viewpoints upstream of the dam that sits at the base of the falls. If you do, take note that the surrounding river banks are heavily covered with moss and therefore very slippery. Many trees on the mountainside are loosely rooted, ready to be ripped out with a small amount of force; do not trust all of your weight on them. Based on the water flow at the time of your visit, it may be possible to climb up the dam on the left side. However, this involves a significant amount of risk, and therefore we cannot recommend that you try to do this.

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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