Grindstone Lake Trail

The Grindstone Lake Trail circles the popular recreation area, descending from the parking area through the forest paths to the wide trails along the lakeside before climbing back to a series of single track trails overlooking the reservoir area.

Grindstone Lake is a popular recreation area with swimming, fishing, and boat rentals. As such there is a lot of parking, along with bathrooms, water and concessions at the main area. This hike leaves from the far end of the parking lot and traces a single track that switches back in the higher forested environments of the area before descending to a wide dirt track at the reservoir's edge.

As the trail continues circling the reservoir, it ascends back onto single tracks. There are numerous trails in the Grindstone Trail Network which can all be explored, however this hike sticks to the edge nearest the water, which mostly follows along a footpath upslope from the water. A final up and down section of single track hugged by the trees leads to the far edge of the dam. Unfortunately there are no trails that allow hikers to make a loop out of the route, so from the dam's far edge, hikers can retrace their route back around the lake to return to the parking area.

Grindstone Lake sees visitors throughout the year, though the summer months bring larger crowds. Trails are shared with equestrians and bicyclists, as well as people carrying their fishing gear or walking dogs along the paths.

Parking fees are charged from late May through December. As of 2025, this was $10 per vehicle with options for annual pass purchases.