Grindstone Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
About Grindstone Falls
Grindstone Falls sits tucked away in Alaska’s backcountry, a quiet, lesser-known cascade framed by unspoiled wilderness. Visitors come for the sense of solitude more than marked viewpoints — detailed measurements of the falls’ height and flow aren’t widely published, which only adds to the feeling of discovery when you first round the bend and hear water over rock. The setting is classic Alaskan: dense forest, sashays of alder and spruce, and the clean, crisp air that makes a short hike feel like a proper escape. Because the area is remote, the nearest maintained lodging is the YOUNG LAKE (SOUTH) CABIN, roughly 16.75 km (about 10.4 miles) away, so plan your day and weather windows accordingly. Expect quiet trails and bring navigation tools — this is a place for hikers who like a little solitude and a bit of exploration.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Official USFS surface, grade, and trail class details are not listed for this route, and sections may be minimally maintained or unmarked. Hikers should be prepared for typical Alaskan backcountry footing and possible route-finding: carry a map/GPS and navigation tools, wear sturdy footwear, and allow extra time for slow, careful travel in dense terrain.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a remote and tranquil setting, surrounded by Alaska's natural beauty. The falls are likely to be less crowded due to their secluded location, making them ideal for those seeking solitude.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The falls are likely not wheelchair accessible due to the remote and rugged terrain.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Grindstone Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Grindstone Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Summer is typically the best time to visit due to more favorable weather and accessibility. However, the falls may also be accessible in other seasons depending on local conditions.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 38°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Visitors should be aware of potential hazards, including wildlife encounters, rapidly changing weather, and challenging terrain. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Inform someone of your plans before visiting.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Lemon C, 13.6 miles away, not on Grindstone Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
56 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 46 years of record
6.31 ft
Water depth at gauge
38°F
Dangerously coldRisk of cold shock
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is dangerously cold at 38 degrees F, avoid prolonged contact.
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 LEMON C NR JUNEAU AK (22 km away).
Today
Moderate
61 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Moderate
59 cfs
6/10Thu
Moderate
63 cfs
6/10Fri
Moderate
59 cfs
6/10Sat
Moderate
59 cfs
5/10Sun
Moderate
60 cfs
5/10Mon
Moderate
60 cfs
5/10Best window: Tomorrow — moderate flow, rain (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late June to early September, peaking in August.
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 Juneau hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Grindstone Falls Frozen?
Updated about 9 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Grindstone Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 40°F to 38°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 50 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in Alaska.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Access to Grindstone Falls may require traveling through rugged terrain, potentially involving off-road vehicles or hiking. Specific directions are not well-documented, so visitors should research local guides or consult with nearby park services for assistance.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but visitors should prepare for limited or no designated parking areas near the falls.
Elevation
0 feet above sea level
Coordinates
58.216667° N, -134.250000° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Plan ahead and ensure you have detailed maps or GPS devices. Check weather conditions before visiting, as Alaska's weather can change rapidly. Bring appropriate gear for hiking and wilderness exploration.
Where to Stay
Downtown Juneau Gold Street Inn
Glacier Guest Room - PRIVATE ROOM IN SHARED HOUSE REDUCED PRICE ON TOURS
Silverbow Inn
Kelli Creek Cottage - REDUCED PRICE ON TOURS
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
YOUNG LAKE (SOUTH) CABIN
10.4 miles away · 1 sites
Overview South Young Lake Cabin offers guests recreation, relaxation and a unique wilderness lodging experience on the northern tip of Admiralty Island in the Tongass National Forest. The remote site offers a scenic setting for hiking, fishing, boating, berry picking and wildlife viewing, all within the vicinity of the cabin. South Young Lake Cabin is one of two cabins on the lake. The other is the North Young Lake cabin. Access to the cabin is float plane only. Visitors are responsible for their
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Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions are not well-documented, but the surrounding wilderness may offer opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography.
Wildlife
The area is likely home to a variety of Alaskan wildlife, including bears, moose, and birds. Visitors should be prepared for wildlife encounters and follow safety guidelines.
Cities near Grindstone Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Grindstone Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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