LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Griffin Falls
Alabama • 40 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Griffin Falls
Griffin Falls is a scenic waterfall located in northeastern Alabama, near the town of Collinsville. It is a popular spot for hikers and climbers, as the area features both the waterfall and nearby rock climbing opportunities. The waterfall is surrounded by lush forest, making it a picturesque destination.
The Setting
Griffin Falls sits at 863 feet along the Town Creek, in the foothills of Alabama. The falls drop 40 feet.
Height: 40 feet
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Griffin Falls is short and relatively easy, making it accessible for most visitors. It passes through a wooded area and leads directly to the base of the waterfall. The trail may be uneven in places, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
What to Expect
The falls drop 40 feet. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Griffin Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Griffin Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall typically has the most water flow during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the waterfall, as rocks can be slippery. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid climbing on wet or unstable surfaces. Cell phone reception may be limited in the area.
Current Water Conditions
30 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 9 years of record
1.11 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge TOWN CREEK NEAR GERALDINE AL (12 km away).
Today
Roaring
30 cfs
9/10Tomorrow
Roaring
23 cfs
9/10Wed
Roaring
16 cfs
9/10Thu
Roaring
11 cfs
9/10Fri
Roaring
10 cfs
6/10Sat
Roaring
8 cfs
6/10Sun
Roaring
7 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — roaring flow, sunny (trip score 9/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid February to late March, peaking in February.
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Crossville hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Along the line through the falls, the bare ground drops about 291 feet, most of it in one sheer step, the signature of a plunge waterfall. The falls are listed at 40 feet; the extra comes from the ravine that continues below the base. The ground at the falls is roughly 855 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 169 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 125 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing southeast, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 855 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 291 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Griffin Falls is located off Highway 11 near Collinsville, Alabama. Visitors can park near the roadside and follow a short trail to the waterfall. The trailhead is not well-marked, so using GPS coordinates or a detailed map is recommended.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Roadside parking is available near the trailhead, but space may be limited. Visitors should park safely off the road.
Elevation
863 feet above sea level
Coordinates
34.287360° N, -85.930379° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring sturdy shoes as the trail can be uneven. Consider visiting after a recent rain for the best water flow. Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall.
Where to Stay
avid hotel Fort Payne by IHG
Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Albertville
Candlewood Suites Fort Payne by IHG
Wyndham Garden Lake Guntersville
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Little River Canyon National Preserve and DeSoto State Park, both of which offer additional hiking and scenic views.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, small mammals, and reptiles. Visitors may also see wildflowers in bloom during spring.
Cities near Griffin Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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