📍 Location & Geography
Columbia Falls is a small town located in Washington County, in the state of Maine, United States. The town is nestled in the northeastern part of the country. It is bordered by the towns of Addison to the south, Columbia to the west, and Cherryfield to the north. The Pleasant River flows through the town, providing a picturesque landscape and a natural resource for the community.
🌎 Coordinates
The geographical coordinates for Columbia Falls are approximately 44.65° N latitude and 67.77° W longitude.
🗺️ Region & Area
Columbia Falls is part of the Downeast region of Maine, an area known for its rugged coastline and maritime history. The town covers a total area of 39.38 square miles, of which 38.93 square miles is land and 0.45 square miles is water.
👥 Population & Demographics
According to the United States Census Bureau, the population of Columbia Falls was 560 as of the 2020 census. The town has a predominantly white population, with a small percentage of other races. The median age in Columbia Falls is about 44 years.
🏛️ History
Columbia Falls was first settled in 1800 and was incorporated as a town on February 8, 1863. The town was named after the Columbia River in honor of Christopher Columbus. Columbia Falls has a rich history in shipbuilding and lumbering, with the Pleasant River serving as a significant resource for these industries.
🏞️ Nature & Environment
The town of Columbia Falls is surrounded by a natural environment, with the Pleasant River providing a scenic backdrop. The area is home to a variety of wildlife species, including deer, moose, and various types of birds. The town is also close to the Downeast Sunrise Trail, a multi-use corridor connecting eastern coastal and interior Downeast Maine.
🏫 Education
Education in Columbia Falls is managed by the Maine School Administrative District 37, which serves several communities in the area. The district operates an elementary school in the town, the Columbia Falls Elementary School. For secondary education, students typically attend Narraguagus High School in the nearby town of Harrington.
🚧 Transportation
Columbia Falls is accessible by road via U.S. Route 1, which runs through the town. The town is about 30 miles from the Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport, the closest airport offering commercial flights. Local transportation options include private vehicles, taxis, and limited public bus services.
📜 Trivia & Events
Every year, Columbia Falls hosts the annual Wild Blueberry Festival, celebrating the town’s history and the importance of blueberries to the local economy. The festival includes a blueberry pancake breakfast, a parade, and a variety of craft and food vendors. The town is also home to the Ruggles House, a historic Federal-style house that is now a museum.