About Whetstone Falls
Whetstone Falls is a named waterfall in Penobscot County, Maine, located about 12 miles southwest of Patten. The U.S. Geological Survey records it on the Stacyville 7.5-minute topographic quadrangle at 45°51′53″ N, 68°37′19″ W (45.86477, -68.62198). Historical sources also record the names Popkom'ukwodchu'ssu and Popokomuk wodchussu. Named features close by in the federal gazetteer include Sandbank Stream (stream, 1.0 mi). The nearest other waterfall in this directory is Gilman Falls, 6.9 miles to the northwest.
Weather at Whetstone Falls
Full NWS forecastForecast for the waterfall's exact location, not the nearest town. Mountain weather can change quickly.
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Source: National Weather Service.
Conditions at Whetstone Falls
Sun and Daylight Today
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Times in New York time. Canyons and steep valleys lose direct sun earlier.
Elevation
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At the mapped waterfall point, from the USGS 3D Elevation Program. Expect cooler temperatures than in nearby towns at lower elevation.
Nearest Stream Gauge
Checking for USGS gauges within about 8 miles...
Live discharge in cubic feet per second (ft³/s). The gauge may be on a different stream than the falls; use the trend as a rough guide to how much water is running in the area.
Map and Directions
The marker shows the USGS-recorded position of Whetstone Falls. Trailheads and parking can be some distance from the falls themselves, so plan your route with an up-to-date trail map.
Named Landmarks Nearby
These named features from the USGS Geographic Names Information System lie within two miles of Whetstone Falls. Stream positions mark the stream's mouth as recorded by USGS.
- Sandbank Stream — stream, 1.0 mi
Before You Visit
- Water levels change quickly. Flow is usually strongest after rain and during snowmelt; see the best time to visit waterfalls.
- Stay back from the brink and off wet rock. Our waterfall safety guide covers the most common hazards.
- Check land ownership and access before you go. Some named falls sit on private property or in areas without a maintained trail.
- Download offline maps and save the coordinates 45.86477, -68.62198. Use our waterfall hike packing list.
Waterfalls Near Whetstone Falls
- Ledge Falls, ME16 mi northwest
- Ledge Falls, ME16 mi south
- Ambajejus Falls, ME16 mi southwest
- Katahdin Falls, ME16 mi west
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Whetstone Falls located?
Whetstone Falls is in Penobscot County, Maine, about 12 miles southwest of Patten. Its coordinates are 45.86477, -68.62198 (45°51′53″ N, 68°37′19″ W).
What town is closest to Whetstone Falls?
The closest town with 1,000 or more residents is Patten, ME, about 12 miles away in a straight line. Driving distance is usually longer, so check the route before you go.
What waterfalls are near Whetstone Falls?
The closest is Gilman Falls (6.9 mi northwest). Others within reach include Orin Falls (8.5 mi), Grindstone Falls (9.5 mi), and Bowlin Falls (13 mi).
Which USGS topographic map shows Whetstone Falls?
Whetstone Falls appears on the USGS Stacyville 7.5-minute quadrangle. You can view it in The National Map viewer or download the US Topo sheet for offline navigation.