Are there fees or permits required for Grindstone Falls?

No, there are no fees required to visit Grindstone Falls.

Is swimming allowed at Grindstone Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Grindstone Falls.

Live Conditions · 1,590 ft³/s · About average

Grindstone Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Grindstone Falls?

No, dogs are not allowed at Grindstone Falls.

Maine

By Armen Suny · Last verified May 2026

Also For 1 other waterfall also named Grindstone Falls, see below

Penobscot River Corridor UNKE · PVT

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Grindstone Falls

Grindstone Falls is a quietly scenic waterfall in Maine tucked into the Penobscot River Corridor. Nestled on private land and managed as part of that corridor by SPR, it’s a lesser-known spot that rewards visitors with wooded approaches, mossy rock ledges, and a peaceful plunge pool—perfect for a reflective picnic or a photo stop away from busier trailheads. Because the falls sit on private property within the Penobscot River Corridor (designation: UNKE), visitors should respect access rules and stay on established paths. The short but rewarding approach makes Grindstone Falls a great choice for hikers seeking a moderate outing with classic Maine river scenery rather than a long day on the trail.

The Setting

Grindstone Falls sits at 364 feet within Penobscot River Corridor, fed by the East Branch Penobscot River, in the coastal lowlands of Maine.

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Grand Falls (40 ft) lies 9.7 miles to the southwest.

Grand Falls

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

The approach to Grindstone Falls is a 2.4-mile out-and-back hike with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain and is generally rated moderate. The route follows wooded terrain and natural tread to the waterfall; specific USFS trail surface, grade, and class data are not available for this route, and no USFS trail number is provided in the available records. Note that the fall and access route lie on private land within the Penobscot River Corridor managed by SPR—observe any posted access restrictions and stay on the established trail.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a tranquil waterfall surrounded by forested scenery. The area is likely to be quiet and less crowded compared to more popular waterfalls in Maine.

Accessibility

The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.

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

spring summer fall

Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as water flow is typically strongest during these seasons.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.

Safety Information

Trail conditions may be uneven or slippery, especially after rain. Visitors should exercise caution near the waterfall and avoid getting too close to the edge.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 3 hours ago Barely Flowing

1,590 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

About average for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

695 878 2.3k 3.2k

Based on 104 years of record

5.87 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

East Branch Penobscot River at Grindstone, Maine

USGS 01029500

0.2 miles from waterfall

Drainage: 837 sq mi

Altitude: 294 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge East Branch Penobscot River at Grindstone, Maine (0 km away).

High confidence

Barely Flowing right now

1590 cfs

↓ Falling

Today

Barely Flowing

1717 cfs

3/10

Tomorrow

Low

1821 cfs

3/10

Mon

Barely Flowing

1614 cfs

4/10

Tue

Low

1746 cfs

3/10

Wed

Low

1681 cfs

4/10

Thu

Low

1656 cfs

3/10

Fri

Low

1627 cfs

4/10

Best window: Mon — barely flowing flow, patchy fog then sunny (trip score 4/10).

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to late June, peaking in April.

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 Patten hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Grindstone Falls is located near the town of Medway, Maine. Access may require navigating rural roads, so a reliable map or GPS is recommended.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking availability is unclear, but visitors may need to park along the roadside or at a nearby trailhead.

Elevation

364 feet above sea level

Coordinates

45.728384° N, -68.591699° W

Land Management

Penobscot River Corridor UNKE

Managed by SPR

Visitor Tips & Gear

Bring sturdy footwear as trail conditions may vary. Be prepared for limited facilities and pack out all trash to preserve the natural environment.

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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.