Top 12 Natural Monuments in Oxford County
Best natural monuments in Oxford County are found within Southwestern Ontario, a region characterized by its diverse natural areas and extensive trail systems. The county is situated at the convergence of the Carolinian Life Zone and the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Forest Region, contributing to its rich biodiversity. These areas offer opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration of unique ecological zones. The region features over 160 km of hiking trails, providing varied natural landscapes.
Best natural monuments in Oxford County
…Last updated: June 24, 2026
Mahoosuc Notch and Mahoosuc Arm
Highlight (Segment) • Gorge
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Old Speck Mountain Fire Tower
Highlight • Monument
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Evans Notch Overlook
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Moose Cave
Highlight • Cave
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Step Falls Preserve
Highlight (Segment) • Waterfall
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Eyebrow Trail, Grafton Notch State Park
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
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Screw Auger Falls
Highlight • Waterfall
The park features …
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Speckled Mountain Summit
Highlight • Summit
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Coos Canyon
Highlight • Canyon
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Mother Walker Falls
Highlight • Waterfall
The water, itself, is a collection …
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Tips from the Community
The Mahoosuc Notch area is commonly known as the "hardest mile on the AT". The Appalachian Trail traverses many miles, many mountains, and many states, but this rocky section of the trail in Maine has been crowned the most difficult. The Mahoosuc Arm section stretches another mile or so up to that high point and includes a pretty rough section of trail, itself. Don't expect to move very quick for this stint of the Appalachian Trail!
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Speckled Mountain is a 2,887-foot mountain at the southern end of the Caribou-Speckled Mountain Wilderness. There are open views next to the rocky remains of an old lookout tower.
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The trail moving through Step Falls Preserve follows Wight Brook the entire time, which is lined with different cascades and small waterfalls, falls just outside the boundaries of Grafton Notch State Park. The trail is more primitive than the waterfall trails within the park, but it also offers more solitude.
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Moose Cave in Grafton State Park is named after the moose that fell down into the cave years ago. The trail leading to the cave overlook winds through rock gardens and boulder fields before arriving at the halfway steps. This isn't a super smooth trail, but it's pretty short and offers a submersion into the forest of Grafton State Park.
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Speckled Mountain is a 2,887-foot mountain at the southern end of the Caribou-Speckled Mountain Wilderness. There are open views next to the rocky remains of an old lookout tower.
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The path to Mother Walker Falls is super short and super smooth. The waterfall is pretty popular since it's so easy to get to. The water, itself, is a collection of rapids and cascades along the Bear River and is one of the main attractions in Grafton Notch State Park.
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The trail moving through Step Falls Preserve follows Wight Brook the entire time, which is lined with different cascades and small waterfalls, falls just outside the boundaries of Grafton Notch State Park. The trail is more primitive than the waterfall trails within the park, but it also offers more solitude.
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Moose Cave in Grafton State Park is named after the moose that fell down into the cave years ago. The trail leading to the cave overlook winds through rock gardens and boulder fields before arriving at the halfway steps. This isn't a super speedy trail, but it offers a submersion into the forest of Grafton State Park.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of natural monuments can I explore in Oxford County?
Oxford County offers a diverse range of natural monuments, including challenging gorges like Mahoosuc Notch and Mahoosuc Arm, scenic waterfalls such as Step Falls Preserve and Screw Auger Falls, and impressive summits like Speckled Mountain Summit. You'll also find viewpoints, canyons, and trails that showcase the region's natural beauty.
Are there any challenging natural monuments for experienced hikers?
Yes, Oxford County is home to some very challenging natural monuments. Mahoosuc Notch and Mahoosuc Arm is famously known as the "hardest mile on the AT" due to its rocky and demanding terrain. The Eyebrow Trail, Grafton Notch State Park also presents a steep section with cables and iron bars for assistance, offering great views but requiring careful navigation.
Which natural monuments offer the best panoramic views?
For breathtaking panoramic views, consider visiting the Old Speck Mountain Fire Tower. Located on the 4,170-foot summit of Old Speck Mountain, the fire tower provides unobstructed 360-degree vistas. Additionally, Speckled Mountain Summit offers open views from the rocky remains of an old lookout tower.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments in Oxford County?
Several natural monuments are suitable for families. Screw Auger Falls, Coos Canyon, and Mother Walker Falls are all categorized as family-friendly, offering accessible natural beauty. Evans Notch Overlook is also a great spot for families to enjoy scenic views.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
Beyond exploring the natural monuments themselves, Oxford County offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find excellent opportunities for running on trails like the Old Speck Trail or Bethel Pathway, or enjoy waterfall hikes such as the Baldface Circle Trail. For cyclists, there are road cycling routes like the Cross New Hampshire Adventure Trail Loop. You can find more details on these activities in the Running Trails in Oxford County, Waterfall hikes in Oxford County, and Road Cycling Routes in Oxford County guides.
Where can I see impressive waterfalls in Oxford County?
Oxford County features several beautiful waterfalls. Don't miss Step Falls Preserve, known for its cascading waters, and the picturesque Screw Auger Falls. Another notable spot is Mother Walker Falls, which is also family-friendly.
Are there any natural monuments that involve unique geological features?
Absolutely. Coos Canyon is a notable geological feature located on the Swift River, where visitors can even try panning for gold. The challenging Mahoosuc Notch and Mahoosuc Arm also stands out as a rugged gorge with unique rock formations.
What are some popular hiking trails associated with Oxford County's natural monuments?
Many natural monuments are part of or accessible via popular hiking trails. The Eyebrow Trail, Grafton Notch State Park is a well-known, challenging section. For those seeking summits, trails lead to Old Speck Mountain Fire Tower and Speckled Mountain Summit, offering rewarding views.
What should I know before visiting Mahoosuc Notch?
Mahoosuc Notch and Mahoosuc Arm is widely regarded as the "hardest mile on the AT" due to its extremely rocky and challenging terrain. Expect to move slowly and be prepared for a strenuous experience. It's not a section where you can expect to run or move quickly.
Can I find natural monuments with forest environments?
Yes, several natural monuments are nestled within forest environments. Step Falls Preserve is located in a forest setting, and Caribou Mountain also features a forest environment leading to its summit and viewpoints.
Are there any natural monuments that are good for wildlife spotting?
While specific wildlife tips for these monuments are not detailed, natural areas like Step Falls Preserve and the trails leading to summits like Caribou Mountain, being in forested and natural settings, generally offer opportunities for observing local fauna. Keep an eye out for birds and other wildlife common to the region's diverse ecosystems.
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