Grouse Creek Falls - Idaho Panhandle NF, ID

The trail for Grouse Creek Falls starts on the east side of the parking area, just to the right of the restroom. The trail follows the north bank of the creek and is mostly flat to start. Easy hiking for the most part, and you'll notice several campsites scattered around.


Closer to the falls, the trail begins to head uphill and there are some slippery rocks to cross. Then the fun begins. After heading uphill and just before reaching the falls, the trail drops steeply back down towards the creek. Very steeply. And the rocks are wet from the spray from the falls. As of Summer 2022, there was a rope leading down this steep section, and it was very useful. In the absence of the rope, it would likely be a slippery scoot down this short section while grabbing onto branches and tree roots.At the bottom of the rope section, the falls are in front of you. They seem more like steep rapids than a true waterfall but are still impressive as they curve down and around the rocks. After climbing back up the rope section, there is another trail that leads down towards the creek below the falls. Exploring this area is easy, and worth the extra couple minutes of walking. This use trail leads back up to the main trail, and you can retrace your steps back out to the trailhead.

Not the most kid-friendly trail if you want to go all the way to the falls, but walking along the creek before the rope section is easy enough for almost anyone.

2022-06-10 LindaAnn