Grizzly Bear Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainPhoto Credits (1)
Trail Length
3.3 miles
About Grizzly Bear Falls
Tucked into the ponderosa-scented slopes of the Black Hills National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service, Grizzly Bear Falls is a quietly scenic cascade that rewards a short hike with forested views and the sound of tumbling water. Many visitors find the falls are at their most impressive in spring and early summer following snowmelt or heavy rain, though flow can vary by season. Access is via the USFS GRIZZLY #7 (Trail #7), which threads through native forest soils and opens onto the falls in a setting that feels remote yet accessible. The hike to the falls is a pleasant out-and-back suitable for most moderately fit hikers: the route climbs about 350 feet over roughly 2.4 miles and is commonly rated moderate. Camping is convenient for overnight stays or early starts — Grizzly Bear Campground sits just 3.24 km away. Plan for native, unpaved tread and some steeper sections; with the forest around you it’s a rewarding short adventure in one of South Dakota’s most intimate mountain landscapes.
The Setting
Grizzly Bear Falls sits at 4,915 feet within Black Hills National Forest, fed by the Battle Creek, in the mountains of South Dakota.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Grizzly (#7), a 3.3-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. The trail is moderately developed (Class 2).
USFS Trail
GRIZZLY #7 #7
Trail Class
Moderately Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
3.16 miTrail Description
USFS Trail: GRIZZLY #7 (Trail #7). Type: out-and-back. Length: approximately 2.4 miles (USFS GIS: 3.16 miles). Elevation gain: 350 ft. Difficulty: moderate. Class: 2. Surface: NAT (native material/unpaved). Typical grade: 12–20%. Expect unpaved singletrack and short, steeper pitches; footing can be variable with seasonal moisture, so wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for native-trail conditions.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful natural setting with the potential for wildlife sightings. The waterfall may have variable flow depending on the time of year.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Grizzly Bear Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Grizzly Bear Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is typically in spring or early summer when the waterfall is likely to have the most water flow.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Black Hills National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and changing trail conditions due to weather. Always stay on marked trails and avoid venturing too close to the edge of the falls.
Current Water Conditions
1 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 64 years of record
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 BATTLE CREEK NEAR KEYSTONE,SD (10 km away).
Today
Moderate
1 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
1 cfs
8/10Sun
Moderate
1 cfs
8/10Mon
Moderate
1 cfs
4/10Tue
Moderate
1 cfs
4/10Wed
Moderate
1 cfs
8/10Thu
Moderate
1 cfs
8/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, partly sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid April to mid July, peaking in May.
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 Keystone 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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 142 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 4,915 feet.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 198 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 116 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing southeast, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 4,915 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 142 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer 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
The exact location and directions to Grizzly Bear Falls are not well-documented. Visitors are advised to consult local resources or park services for accurate directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should check with local authorities or nearby trailheads for parking options.
Elevation
4,915 feet above sea level
Coordinates
43.863560° N, -103.463482° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Check weather conditions before visiting, as trails may become muddy or slippery after rain. Bring appropriate footwear and water.
Where to Stay
Pine Haven Lodging
Comfort Inn & Suites Mt Rushmore
K Bar S Lodge, an Ascend Collection Hotel
Comfort Inn & Suites
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.
Nearby Campground
Grizzly Bear Campground
2 miles away · 20 sites
Overview This campground lies beneath a canopy of oak and Ponderosa pine on the banks of Grizzly Creek. The site has retained much of its original Civilian Conservation Corps character, and offers visitors recreation and relaxation in Black Hills National Forest. Located along the Iron Mountain Road, it is between Mount Rushmore National Memorial and Custer State Park.A pavillion built by the Civilian Conservation Corps still stands and is available for use by campers. Recreation Black Hills Nati
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Nearby Attractions
South Dakota is home to several natural attractions, including Custer State Park, Mount Rushmore, and Badlands National Park.
Wildlife
The area may feature local wildlife such as deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of potential encounters with larger animals like bears or mountain lions.
Cities near Grizzly Bear Falls
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