Middleham Falls

Middleham Falls is one of Dominica’s tallest and most spectacular waterfalls, plunging 275 feet (84 meters) into a crystal-clear pool below. Located within Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this breathtaking natural attraction is surrounded by dense mountainous rainforest, offering an immersive experience of Dominica’s biodiversity and volcanic landscapes.

Perched above the villages of Cochrane and Laudat in Saint George Parish, Middleham Falls is 1.7 miles north of Wotten Waven and 3.8 miles northeast of Roseau. Visitors can access the falls by taking Valley Road, connecting near Laudat to the Middleham Falls Trail at Providence. The waterfall is fed by the tributaries of the Boeri River, which flows through the lush jungle, creating a refreshing mist and calm waters.

Hiking the Middleham Falls Trail

The Middleham Falls Trail winds through a 950-acre tract of pristine tropical rainforest, initially donated by John D. Archbold to the Dominica Government through The Nature Conservancy. This area is protected as part of Morne Trois Pitons National Park, preserving its rich ecosystem.

Starting at the Providence Estate, the trail crosses the Providence River, passing through banana cultivations, giant ferns, and towering hardwood trees such as Gommier (Dacryodes Excelsa) and Chatannyé (Sloanea spp). Hikers also pass the massive Maho Kochon tree, a significant landmark.

Trail Length: Approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) one way, making it a moderate yet rewarding hike.
Elevation Gain: About 1,050 to 1,150 feet (320 to 350 meters), offering incredible rainforest canopy views.
Trail Conditions: The terrain features rocky pathways, stream crossings, and muddy sections, requiring sturdy hiking boots.
Estimated Time: A round-trip journey takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on fitness level and pace.

Connection to the Waitukubuli National Trail

The Middleham Falls Trail intersects with Segment #4 of the Waitukubuli National Trail, Dominica’s premier 115-mile (184 km) hiking route. This strategic location allows serious hikers to extend their journey through the interior of Dominica, linking Middleham Falls to other scenic destinations.

The Reward: Experiencing Middleham Falls

After navigating the winding track through the rainforest, visitors are greeted by the towering cascade of Middleham Falls, surrounded by lush greenery and sheer rock cliffs. The force of the waterfall creates a constant mist, offering a cooling effect in the humid rainforest climate.

Swimming in the Pool: The deep pool beneath the falls is refreshing but often chilly due to its high altitude and source from the Boeri River tributaries.
Breathtaking Photography: The contrast between the roaring waterfall, the rainforest canopy, and the volcanic rock formations creates an ideal setting for photography.

Wildlife and Biodiversity Around Middleham Falls

The rainforest surrounding Middleham Falls is home to an incredible diversity of flora and fauna. Dominica’s rainforest hosts over 60 tree species per 10-acre plot, making it one of the richest ecosystems in the Caribbean.

Birdwatching Highlights:
- Rufous-throated Solitaire (Siflé Moutany) – A melodious songbird commonly heard along the trail.
- Jaco Parrot & Imperial Amazon Parrot (Sisserou Parrot) – Endemic species unique to Dominica.
- Purple-throated Carib & Plumbeous Warbler – Frequent sightings near flowering plants.
- Scaly-naped Pigeon & Ruddy Quail Dove – Often spotted in the dense canopy.
Reptiles and Nocturnal Creatures:
- Tree Lizards (Zandoli) – Often seen camouflaged on tree trunks.
- Bats and Small Frogs – Active in the evenings, adding to the rich rainforest soundscape.

Tou Santi – The Mysterious “Stinking Hole”

One of the unique features near Middleham Falls is Tou Santi, also known as the Stinking Hole. This collapsed lava tube emits warm volcanic gases, creating an unusual geothermal phenomenon. The cave-like formation houses thousands of bats, adding to the rainforest’s mystique.

Best Time to Visit Middleham Falls

The falls can be visited year-round, but the best time is during the dry season (December to May), when trail conditions are more favorable. However, the waterfall is powerful during the rainy season (June to November), offering an even more dramatic experience.

Tips for Hikers

Wear sturdy footwear – The trail can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain.
Bring water and snacks – The hike is strenuous and requires hydration.
Consider a guide. Local guides enhance the experience by sharing knowledge about the area’s flora, fauna, and history.
Purchase site passes – Visitors must obtain an entry pass in Roseau or Laudat before accessing the site.

Nearby Attractions and Extended Adventures

For those wishing to explore more of Dominica’s natural wonders, several attractions are located near Middleham Falls:

Boeri Lake – A high-altitude volcanic lake known for its stunning scenery and cool waters.
Titou Gorge is a deep, volcanic canyon with swimming pools and hidden waterfalls.
Trafalgar Falls – A dual waterfall system featuring hot and cold pools, perfect for relaxation.
Wotten Waven – A village renowned for its natural hot springs, ideal for post-hike relaxation.

Conservation and Responsible Tourism

Middleham Falls and its surrounding ecosystem are protected within Morne Trois Pitons National Park, ensuring that future generations can enjoy its natural beauty. Visitors are urged to:

Stay on the designated trail to protect sensitive plant life.
Avoid littering – Take only memories and photographs.
Refrain from damaging trees – Bark removal harms the ecosystem and longevity of the forest.

Why Visit Middleham Falls?

Middleham Falls is a must-visit destination for hikers, nature lovers, and eco-travelers. Its majestic waterfall, lush rainforest surroundings, and abundant wildlife make it one of Dominica’s top natural attractions. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or an immersive nature experience, Middleham Falls offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of Nature Island of the Caribbean.