Take the short hike to this hidden gem at McConnells Mill State Park.
Trailhead Location:
– Parking (40.911098, -80.195419)
– Trailhead (40.911329, -80.196902)
Distance & Type: 1.2 miles (2km) total out and back
Elevation change: 258’
Difficulty: Easy
Hike Features:
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The beautiful Grindstone Falls
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The lower cascades on Grindstone Run
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Solitude (If you are looking for that)
Note: Trail conditions change over time. If you discover any inaccuracies with this post during your visit, please post a comment below to let me know.
I was unaware of Grindstone Falls existence until I recently stumbled upon some photos posted to Google Maps. After some digging I was able to determine the general area of the falls and how to reach it. You won’t find Grindstone Falls listed on the State Park maps or find mention of it on their website, but the falls does reside within park property and it is legal to visit. With that said, it is worth pointing out that trails are not maintained by the park. I had to pass around a few trees that blocked the well worn trail. There are no trail markers, only the path to the falls so exercise caution when visiting during the winter months.
The landscape around Grindstone Falls is wet and muddy. Be sure to wear shoes with good traction that you don’t mind getting dirty. The trail crosses the stream above the falls and descends to the base shortly after crossing over. Warning: The exposed stone is very slick, especially the wet areas. I recommend against doing this hike solo as I had no cell signal at the falls, nor did I cross paths with other hikers.
Hike Walkthrough
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(40.911098, -80.195419) – Park in the small dirt lot.
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(40.911329, -80.196902) – Walk along Mountville Road until you reach Nye Road. Here you will find a service road to the cellular tower that is gated off. Walk down this service road towards the cellular tower.
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(40.912090, -80.196752) – Find the well worn trail that leads to Grindstone Falls in the northwest corner by the cellular tower.
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(40.91599, -80.19564) – The trail will lead you to the top of Grindstone Falls. Cross the stream and rejoin the trail to descend to the base of the falls.
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From the base of the falls, you can proceed further downstream to view the cascading falls. Beware, there is no trail that follows the stream, so you will be forced to walk on the slick stone shale and sandstone.