13 Best Waterfalls in Michigan You Must Visit

You may be surprised to learn that, despite hundreds of stunning waterfalls in Michigan, all but one of them are located in the gorgeous Upper Peninsula.. The Uttarakhand waterfalls, which have vertical crashes ranging from less than five feet to fifty feet, are breathtaking locations that are typically tucked away amongst lush vegetation.

Some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Michigan are reachable by boat from Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, while others must be hiked or just a brief walk away. Make sure to include visiting Michigan’s Upper Peninsula waterfalls on the bucket list of activities to do when organizing a trip there for an unforgettable experience.

1. Bond Falls

One of the most famous waterfalls in the U.P., Bond Falls is a stunning waterfall located in southern Ontonagon County. The falls descend about fifty feet in total. Near the top of the falls, there is available boardwalk with six vantage spots, parking, and picnic tables.

This stunning waterfall is shaded by the Ottawa National Forest even though it is not a part of it. At the bottom of the falls is a built route, secured with steps and a bridge over the river, overseen by the U.P. Power Company. There are many different types of flowers to admire during the summer months, and this is one waterfall that is lovely all year round.

2. Agate Falls

Agate Falls, regarded as one of Michigan’s most attractive, formed out of sandstone shelves over which water flows with the appearance of stairs.

The biggest national park in Michigan, the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, is located just down the road from this waterfall. It is a habitat to a variety of species, outdoor activities, and almost 100 waterfalls. Needless to add a deep, stunning forest and a range of gorgeous mountains.

3. Upper Dead River Falls

There’s excellent reason why Upper Dead River Falls is one of the most beloved waterfalls around Marquette. This location is unique because of the breathtaking journey to the falls, the opportunity to fish for trout in the Dead River, the various falls that line the road, and the opportunity to cliff dive underneath a waterfall. What more could one possibly ask for?

Dead River Falls gets busier in the summer months. Having said that, it’s so widespread that it’s easy to find a piece of the action for yourself only. We’ve constantly met new people at the falls and had quiet periods to ourselves to take in the peaceful luxury that this place offers.

4. Alder Falls

Alder Falls is an isolated waterfall with easy access. As strange as that may sound, you’ll realize once you get over there. Before we go into this one, it’s important to mention that Alder Falls is one of my favorite waterfalls in Michigan; it’s extremely gorgeous!

The start of the trail is not clearly defined; regardless, there is a tiny parking lot and a notice urging that you keep everything clean near the falls. Based on the car you’re driving, you may have to stop before arriving because of road conditions. There is a long climb to get to Alder Falls, but the scenery at the bottom is well worth it!

5. Munising Falls

Because Munising serves as an entrance to the spectacular Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, the town is also bordered by 20 gorgeous waterfalls, several of which are located within the park. A short hike up a peaceful canyon results to a stream at the very bottom of Munising Falls.

There are also two sets of staircases that take you to decks with better views of the 50 foot waterfall as it cascades over a sandstone cliff. Because this waterfall entirely freezes over in the frigid winters in the Upper Peninsula, many people come here to enjoy some beautiful ice climbing.

6. Miners Falls

The strongest waterfall in Pictured Rocks Park, is probably Miners Falls. It is created when the rapidly flowing Miners River plunges over a sandstone rock somewhere 50 feet below. The falls are located close to Miners Beach and Miners Castle, making the 1.2 mile journey quite popular and a terrific way to visit some of the park’s most famous sites.

7. Scott Falls

Perhaps the easiest waterfall in Alger County to reach is Scott Falls. Although you can see it from M-28, you’ll have to leave your car and walk outside to get a close up look at this one. The water rushes over the cliff at its best in the springtime and fall, while during the dry seasons, not as much.

One of the nicest rest areas in Michigan is located across M-28, and it offers restrooms as well as entrance to Lake Superior. It’s crucial to be aware when crossing the street because cars can reach speeds of up to 70 mph.

8. Sable Falls

The Sable Creek ends at Sable Falls, a long, steep, swift moving waterfall before plunging into Lake Superior. The waterfall is easily reached from H-58 and is found just beyond Grand Marais. Sable Falls, which rise to a height of about 75 feet, is magnificent to see from the pathways that the National Parks System constructed to overlook them.

You can walk toward Lake Superior using the several staircases here. To extend the hike, begin at Grand Marais’ Agate Beach, head along the beach, climb the walkway that leads to the falls, and then head back.

9. Eagle River Falls

The historical importance of the Keweenaw Peninsula is combined with the gorgeous scenery of Eagle River Falls. The Lake Superior Safety Fuse Company began operations in 1862. Eventually, it would become J. Blight & Sons, and the corporation would continue for many generations.

They made blasting devices for the neighboring mines. Here, they dammed the Eagle River, and even though the building burned down in 1957, the dam’s remains may still be seen.

The mill has now vanished, and during months when the Eagle River is at an increased water level, the water overpowers the remains of the historic dam, causing the falls to be completely submerged. Water constantly runs here during the dry months, but because of the ruins of the dam, it is only able to flow to the right edge of the falls.

Regardless of the time of year you visit, the scenery is breathtaking and easily accessible. When the new M-26 bridge was constructed in 1990, the 1915-built original was converted into a pedestrian bridge. You can either hike all the way to the bottom or enjoy a view of the falls from here!

10. Bridalveil Falls

Being one of the tallest waterfalls in Michigan, Bridalveil Falls at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, drops 140 feet into Lake Superior’s waters and rocks. Experiencing it from a boat in the fall or springtime is the most wonderful way to really appreciate it, as it is tricky to reach from the cliffs surrounding it.

11. Ocqueoc Falls

It’s easy to be forgotten when you’re the only declared waterfall in Michigan’s lower peninsula. However, the Ocqueoc Falls Bicentennial Pathway begins near the waterfall and follows the river through woodlands that are especially gorgeous in the first part of October.

Wheelchair accessibility is provided, and there’s an outside table function with grills, and it’s one of the most accessible waterfalls in Michigan.

12. Jacob’s Falls

Jacob’s Falls is in an extremely remarkable location even though it’s not one of the biggest waterfalls. It is located three miles northeast of Eagle River off M-26.

The main stretch of the waterfall, which descends around 20 feet, is the portion visible from the roadway. However, the falls descend a total of 40 feet.The Jampot, a shop owned by a monastery that sells amazing jams and baked goodies, is only 225 feet away.

13. Douglass Houghton Falls

Douglass Houghton Falls, which has a 110-foot plunge, is breathtaking to witness in autumn. Actually, residents and students from Michigan Tech used to love going to the water.

There is limited accessibility to the base of the waterfall due to the harsh gorge and unstable volcanic stones surrounding it. The town intends to increase the safety of visiting this waterfall.

However, Hammel Creek, which is close to Lake Lindon, provides access to the falls.

Frequently Asked Questions Concerning Waterfalls in Michigan

What is the number of waterfalls in Michigan?

You can find more than 300 waterfalls in Michigan, with the Upper Peninsula housing the majority of them.

Where is the largest waterfall in Michigan?

Although Sable Falls, at 75 feet, may appear to be the highest waterfalls in Michigan according to a generic search, it is untrue. Douglass Houghton Falls, measuring 110 feet, is in fact the highest waterfall, reported by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. It is situated between Laurium and Lake Linden on the Keweenaw Peninsula, off of M-26.

Which US state has the most waterfalls?

Michigan boasts more than 300 waterfalls, but other states enjoy even more. Featuring 3,132 waterfalls, Washington is the state with the largest number of waterfalls in the United States.

When Is It Best to Visit Waterfalls in Michigan?

When is the ideal season to visit waterfalls in Michigan? At any moment! Every season is the ideal time of year to see Michigan’s waterfalls since it offers pristine and fascinating details to all of the state’s waterfalls.

Michigan Waterfalls in the Spring

Michigan’s springtime rainfall and growing weather supply the Upper Peninsula’s waterfalls with a plenty of freshwater. They are therefore louder and larger than they are at virtually any time of year.

Michigan Waterfalls in the summer

Summertime is the busiest season for visiting waterfalls in Michigan. A lot of travelers visit these breathtaking natural attractions on their Upper Peninsula summer road trips, as the Upper Peninsula is home to the majority of waterfalls in Michigan!

Autumnal Michigan Waterfalls

Fall is a particularly wonderful time to see Michigan’s many waterfalls, even though exploring them in the summer is a great idea. The falls are surrounded by stunningly changing leaves.

Don’t forget to check out the top Michigan fall activities and color drives in the Upper Peninsula and surrounding areas when you visit the state’s numerous waterfalls this autumn!

Michigan Winter Waterfalls

The breathtaking beauty found in Michigan’s ice waterfalls is unmatched. These crystalline waterfalls are breathtaking, regardless of whether you decide to risk a go at ice climbing or keep your feet firmly planted on the ground.