Michigan, known for its Great Lakes and diverse landscapes, is also home to some of the most stunning waterfalls in the Midwest.
From the roaring cascades of the Upper Peninsula to the serene falls tucked away in state parks, there’s a waterfall adventure waiting for every type of explorer.
We’ll take you on a journey through Michigan’s most beautiful waterfalls, complete with trail information and insider tips to make your visit unforgettable.
Upper Peninsula Wonders
Tahquamenon Falls
Let’s start our waterfall tour with the crown jewel of Michigan’s falls: Tahquamenon Falls. Located in Paradise, Michigan, these falls are the largest in the state and among the largest east of the Mississippi. The Upper Falls, with a drop of nearly 50 feet and a width of over 200 feet, creates a spectacle that’s truly awe-inspiring.
- Trail Info: The park offers several hiking options. The most popular is the 0.4-mile paved trail from the parking lot to the Upper Falls viewing platform. For a more adventurous hike, try the 4-mile round trip trail between the Upper and Lower Falls. Refer to the Tahquamenon Falls Trail Map.
- Tip: Visit in autumn to see the falls framed by vibrant fall colors. The park can get busy, so arrive early to beat the crowds.
Bond Falls
Nestled in the western Upper Peninsula, Bond Falls is a hidden gem that rivals its more famous counterparts in beauty. The Ontonagon River cascades over a series of rock ledges, creating a 50-foot tall, 100-foot wide spectacle.
- Trail Info: A paved 600-foot trail leads to several viewing platforms, making this fall accessible to visitors of all abilities.
- Tip: Bring a picnic! There are several scenic spots perfect for a riverside lunch.
Munising Falls
Located in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Munising Falls is a 50-foot waterfall that flows over a sandstone cliff. The falls are particularly stunning in winter when they freeze into a curtain of ice.
- Trail Info: A short, paved 800-foot trail leads from the parking area to the base of the falls. Two sets of stairs branch off to elevated viewing platforms.
- Tip: Visit in different seasons for varied experiences. Spring offers powerful flows, while winter presents a frozen wonderland.
Lower Peninsula Gems
Ocqueoc Falls
While the Upper Peninsula gets most of the waterfall glory, the Lower Peninsula has its share of cascading wonders. Ocqueoc Falls, located in Presque Isle County, is the largest waterfall in the Lower Peninsula.
- Trail Info: A universally accessible 300-foot trail leads to the falls and continues to a series of pools perfect for swimming.
- Tip: Pack your swimsuit in summer! The pools below the falls offer a refreshing dip after your hike.
Exploring the Porcupine Mountains
The Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, affectionately known as the “Porkies,” is a waterfall enthusiast’s paradise. Here are some must-see falls in this area:
Manabezho Falls
The largest of the Presque Isle River waterfalls, Manabezho Falls drops 25 feet and spans the entire width of the river.
- Trail Info: Access these falls via the easy 1-mile round trip hike on the Presque Isle River Trail.
- Tip: Visit after a heavy rain for the most impressive water flow.
Manido Falls
Just upstream from Manabezho, Manido Falls offers a series of cascades over dark basalt rock.
- Trail Info: Continue on the same Presque Isle River Trail to reach Manido Falls.
- Tip: Bring a camera with a slow shutter speed capability to capture silky water effects.
Nawadaha Falls
The third in this trio of falls on the Presque Isle River, Nawadaha Falls is a beautiful 15-foot cascade.
- Trail Info: These falls are the first you’ll encounter on the Presque Isle River Trail when starting from the southern end.
- Tip: Take time to observe the unique “potholes” formed in the rock by the swirling water.
Hidden Gems of the Keweenaw Peninsula
Hungarian Falls
Located near Hubbell, Hungarian Falls is a series of three waterfalls on Dover Creek. The upper and middle falls are on public land, while the lower falls are on property owned by the Keweenaw Land Trust.
- Trail Info: A short but steep trail leads to the upper and middle falls. The lower falls require a more challenging hike.
- Tip: Exercise caution, especially near the upper falls, as the terrain can be slippery and there are steep drop-offs.
Eagle River Falls
In the heart of Eagle River, this waterfall is easy to access and offers a picturesque view, especially when framed by the historic Stone Bridge.
- Trail Info: The falls are visible from the road, with parking available nearby.
- Tip: Visit in spring during the snow melt for the most dramatic water flow.
Waterfall Safety and Etiquette
Before we continue our waterfall journey, let’s take a moment to discuss some important safety tips and etiquette:
- Stay on marked trails: Venturing off-trail can be dangerous and harmful to the environment.
- Wear appropriate footwear: Many waterfall trails can be slippery. Wear shoes with good traction.
- Never climb on or around waterfalls: The rocks are often slippery and accidents can be fatal.
- Practice Leave No Trace principles: Pack out what you pack in and leave nature as you found it.
- Be prepared: Bring water, snacks, and layers of clothing, especially for longer hikes.
- Check the weather: Some waterfalls can become dangerous during heavy rains.
- Respect private property: Some falls may be on or adjacent to private land. Always obtain proper permissions.