Mainepedia
Grafton Township, Maine

Grafton Township, Maine

Wild mountains and waterfalls

Overview

Grafton Township is an unorganized territory in Oxford County, meaning it has no local government and virtually no permanent population. However, it is one of the most visited destinations in Western Maine due to Grafton Notch State Park. Route 26 winds through this dramatic mountain pass, offering easy access to waterfalls, swimming holes, and the Appalachian Trail.

Key Facts

Population 0
Region Western Mountains
County Oxford
Founded Unorganized
Nearest City Bethel (20 minutes)

What Grafton Township Is Known For

Grafton Township Local Highlights

Grafton Notch State Park
A narrow mountain pass carved by glaciers, featuring sheer cliffs, caves, and waterfalls.
Old Speck Mountain
Maine's third-highest peak (4,170 ft), offering a challenging hike with a fire tower summit.
Screw Auger Falls
A stunning 23-foot waterfall that drops into a narrow gorge with potholes carved by glacial meltwater.

Things to Do

1
Hike the Appalachian Trail
The AT crosses Route 26 here; hike up to Table Rock or Old Speck.
2
Explore Moose Cave
A short walk to a deep gorge where the stream disappears under boulders.
3
Swim at Screw Auger
On hot days, the pools below the falls are popular (but cold!).
4
Drive the Scenic Byway
Route 26 is a designated scenic byway.

Living in Grafton Township

There is no residential community in Grafton Township. It is purely a destination for recreation and forestry.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Cool mountain air, 60-75°F

winter

Deep snow, road is plowed but remote, 10-25°F

spring

Late snowmelt, 40-55°F

fall

Stunning foliage, 45-60°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

Moose (frequent sightings) Peregrine Falcons Black Bears Bobcat

How to Get There

Follow Route 26 north from Bethel or south from Errol, NH.

Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.

Satellite preview

Grafton Township outline

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Grafton Township known for?

Grafton Township is known for Grafton Notch State Park, one of Maine's most spectacular mountain passes. The park features Old Speck Mountain (Maine's third-highest peak), Screw Auger Falls, and dramatic cliffs and caves carved by glaciers.

How far is Grafton Notch from Bethel?

Grafton Notch State Park is about 20 minutes from Bethel via Route 26, a designated scenic byway. The unorganized township has no permanent residents but is one of the most visited destinations in Western Maine.

What activities are available at Grafton Notch?

Grafton Notch offers hiking on the Appalachian Trail to Table Rock or Old Speck, exploring Moose Cave gorge, swimming in the cold pools below Screw Auger Falls, scenic byway driving on Route 26, and ice climbing in winter.

Nearby Towns

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Western Mountains Region Seasonal Guide Wildlife & Nature