Are you searching for an out-of-the-ordinary experience? Breathtaking and enchanting, Michigan’s western upper peninsula is home to many beautiful waterfalls. Most are accessible by surprisingly easy trails. Regardless of skill level, this area provides many opportunities for making memories.

Scattered across Gogebic and Ontonagon counties are over 150 sites to choose from. This post will cover some of the highlights. For more detailed descriptions of western upper peninsula waterfalls and directions, try the site below:

https://www.explorewesternup.com/

Best Time to Visit

All four Upper Peninsula seasons have unique perspectives on these natural wonders.  During winter access is often limited, and remote locations frequently have unplowed roads. If you can safely travel frozen waterfalls are a memorable bucket list addition.

Early spring will yield easier viewing and photo opportunities.

Late spring and summer may be the best climate-wise, but there will likely be an abundance of mosquitoes. Prepare with protective clothing, like a lightweight mesh net suit.

Fall is the best time for colorful vistas, plan your trip during peak foliage. 

The listings for waterfalls in the western Upper Peninsula below are grouped by area.  There are many state parks and other nearby attractions to enjoy.

GOGEBIC COUNTY

Known for its many recreational activities and jaw-dropping scenery, Gogebic County is home to several outstanding waterfalls.  This area is also ideal for other camping, hiking, and backpacking opportunities.

The Ottawa National Forest and along the Lake Superior shore offer many sight-seeing opportunities.  You can also find locations for skiing and lodging both in Michigan and on the Wisconsin side. 

MONTREAL RIVER AREA

Saxon Falls

Saxon Falls is located on the border with Wisconsin on the Montreal River. The best viewing is from the Michigan side. The hike to the falls is short but does climb over some steep terrain. Because of heavy foliage, the walkway could be obscured. Use caution and don’t step over any fences or marked boundaries.

Superior Falls displays outstanding beauty.  The roaring water cascade is well worth the walk.  Park in the power company lot.  There is an upper and lower viewing area.  Both are short hikes but be aware the lower trail is very steep. 

When you picture the rushing water of an isolated waterfall, an image like Interstate comes to mind.  Near the Wisconsin border, along the Montreal River, watch for a large sign that’s a bit off the road.  The viewing platform is only 0.3 miles from the parking lot, with some steps and some up-and-down walking.  If you are up for a challenge, keep walking another 3.5 miles to the Unnamed Falls.  Access here is difficult, but the view is gorgeous.

BLACK RIVER SCENIC BYWAY

Dedicated in 1992 as a national forest scenic byway, the parkway follows the Black River on its way to Lake Superior, passing several major western upper peninsula waterfall sites, besides some smaller ones.  Located in the Ottawa National Forest, the Black River recreation area is a great choice to stay during your visit.  Featuring idyllic beaches, a tranquil campground, hiking trails, and harbor boating access, it is a summertime favorite.

The Great Conglomerate Falls offers stunning views with easy access.  Ringed by large pines, the site is also a perfect picture of Northwoods scenery.  Access is easy via a 0.8-mile walking trail.  There is a series of steps.

One of the more spectacular, Potawatomie Falls is an easy 0.2-mile walk from the parking area, with handicap access. 

ONTONAGON COUNTY

PORCUPINE MOUNTAINS WILDERNESS STATE PARK

Michigan’s largest, with almost 60,000 acres to explore this park (also known as the “Porkies”) is a favorite for those seeking a true wilderness adventure.  Open year-round, each season has much to offer, including downhill and cross-country skiing, hiking, and backpacking.  Be aware of the rustic nature of this pristine area and come prepared.  While winter is a snowy wonderland, most trails will need snowshoes to access.  Warmer months host swarms of mosquitoes.  Many wild animals, including black bears, make the park their home. 

Note the “potholes”, formed by years of rushing water.

OTHER ONTONAGON COUNTY WATERFALLS

Don’t overlook this natural site just a few minutes from Agate Falls (which not visible in summer due to dense foliage).  A paved path leads to the lower falls and is handicap accessible.  A steep staircase leads to the upper falls.  Caution!  The steps are usually very wet, use the handrails.  You can almost climb close enough to touch the rushing water. 

TIPS FOR FURTHER ADVENTURE

While the upper peninsula will hopefully become one of your favorite places, proper planning is important. Be certain to check local weather forecasts. Bring gear appropriate to the season. Follow safe hiking rules. The resources below are great tools to start adventure planning.

I hope this post has inspired you to do some waterfall chasing of your own.  We have only showcased a sampling here; the Upper Peninsula of Michigan is home to over 300 of these gems.  Spending even a few days hearing the rushing water and seeing the surrounding rustic and serene countryside of this unsurpassed corner of the world will give joy to your mind and body.

That’s it until next time.  As always, don’t forget adventure is for everyone, and remember to get some dirt under your boots!

Additional Resources

Michigan Tourism/Upper Peninsula: https://www.michigan.org/upper-peninsula

National Forest Service/Ottawa: https://www.fs.usda.gov/ottawa

Michigan Department of National Resources/Porcupine Mountains: https://www.michigan.gov/dnr

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