waterfall tour

The Great Upper Peninsula Waterfall Tour

Escape for a weekend in the northern woods with five excellent stops throughout northern Michigan in the Upper Peninsula.

By: Matt Johnson + Save to a List

If you live in the Midwest or visit, you're heard of the UP. The Upper Peninsula might be a bit of a journey, but if you have a long weekend or a close relative, it's worth your time to travel north and check out some attractive spots. Total Tour Distance: 90 miles - Travel Time: 2 Hours, 40 minutes of driving

1.  Explore Bond Falls

Photo Credit:  Kaydee Johnson

One of the most impressive waterfalls in the UP, Bond Falls is the first stop on our list. Located in Paulding, MI, the falls are roughly 40 ft hight and over 100 ft wide. It is also one of the largest waterfalls in the state. 

2.  Hike to the Base of Agate Falls

Photo Credit: Matt Johnson

The second stop on our list, Agate Falls is only 15 minutes from Bond Falls east of Bruce Crossing. While at the falls, make sure to hike above the trail to check out the abandoned railroad bridge, and below to hike down to the base of the falls. Make sure to have good footwear, the slope is quite steep. 

3.  Hike to O Kun de Kun Falls

Located roughly eight miles north of Bruce Crossing, O Kun de Kun Falls is located along the North Country Trail, a thru-hike trail stretching from North Dakota to New York. The third stop on our list is a longer hike than the others, and can get a little muddy after rain. 

4.  Hike to Sturgeon Falls

Photo Credit:  Larry McGahey

Another stop along the North Country Trail, Sturgeon Falls is located near Baraga in the Ottawa National Forest. The trail crosses through the parking lot for the falls, and the falls itself are a short 0.5 mile hike from the parking lot. 

5.  Hike the Canyon Falls Gorge and Jump into Canyon Falls

Photo Credit:  Matt Johnson

The final stop on our tour has a wonderful payout for those who complete it - cliff jumping. Located near L'Anse, Canyon Falls is also located along the North Country Trail. The hike towards the falls itself is short, but unmarked past the falls, the NCT continues towards the Canyon Gorge, which features an awesome spot for cliff jumping. Jumpers can take off from multiple spots from 35-50 feet into a deep 30 ft pool in the river. 

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Here's The Perfect Weekend Itinerary If You Love Exploring Michigan’s Waterfalls

Sophie Boudreau

More by this Author

Have you been searching for unique and relaxing waterfall day trips that won’t break the bank? We’re lucky to live in a state with so many unique natural attractions that bring adventure and excitement right into our own backyards. If you’re a fan of gorgeous waterfalls (and, honestly, who isn’t?), you will benefit greatly from a Michigan waterfall tour . Prepare for some time in the great outdoors, because these natural spots are calling your name.

Here’s an interactive map of our route. Of course, feel free to adjust the route to fit your needs, interests, and timeline — but this is a great schedule to follow if you want to take planning out of your own hands! In total, the driving time is approximately seven hours, and we’ve planned this trip to take place over the course of a Saturday and Sunday.

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This upper Michigan waterfall tour is only a small sampling of the waterfalls you’ll discover in Michigan’s breathtaking Upper Peninsula. You could truly spend years exploring and never experience all that the U.P. has to offer, so we strongly encourage you to create your own ideal route, follow your favorite paths, and discover the best and most beautiful elements of our incredible Great Lakes State.

Have you visited any of the best waterfalls in Michigan? Which is your favorite? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Are you craving more natural adventures in Michigan? Check out some of the most jaw-dropping locations in the state for more adventure in the great outdoors.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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More to Explore

Best waterfalls in mi.

What are the best waterfall hikes in Michigan?

The best waterfall hikes in Michigan include:

• Memorial Falls

Here in The Mitten State, locals are no strangers to the majesty of the great outdoors. We love our nature treks, and nothing is quite as rewarding as a waterfall hike in Michigan. In addition to the impressive spots listed above, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to visit places like Memorial Falls . Though modest in size, this waterfall is easy to access and it is stunning.

What are the most beautiful lakes in Michigan?

The most beautiful lakes in Michigan include:

• The Great Lakes

Can’t get enough of local water features? We don’t blame you one bit! This state is full of natural beauty, and there are many beautiful lakes in Michigan. Our very name is descended from the indigenous word mishigami, meaning “large lake.” The four of the five Great Lakes that our state borders are arguably the loveliest lakes in the area, but many smaller pools are just as lovely. Don’t be afraid to ask locals for petite pools in the area worth visiting!

Learn more about the most beautiful lakes in Michigan .

What are the best outdoor adventures in Michigan?

The best outdoor adventures in Michigan include:

• Rock Climbing
• Scuba Diving
• Parasailing

Once you’ve admired the great outdoors of Michigan, you won’t be able to get enough. The best outdoor adventures often revolve around hiking, kayaking, and rock climbing. However, our shoreline also offers opportunities for more extreme sports like scuba diving and parasailing. If the opportunity for wild adventure in Michigan presents itself, don’t pass it up!

Find out about more of the best outdoor adventures in Michigan .

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Discover fall in almost heaven.

Featured Destinations

From ATV excursions in small towns to scenic drives across the state, West Virginia is made for everyone. Rest and relax at a world-class resort or head out for a waterfall hike. It’s all waiting for you this summer in Almost Heaven.

Chase stunning fall foliage this season aboard a scenic train ride or ATV excursion. Reconnect with friends and family in a cozy cabin. From charming small towns to flavorful farm-to-table dishes, an autumn adventure awaits in Almost Heaven.

Featured Road Trip

Get a true taste of west virginia along this memorable route.

Less than three hours outside Roanoke, this stretch of West Virginia is unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. Shaped by the famous New River Gorge, you’ll find plenty of riverside activities, outdoor adventures and some of the most extraordinary views. Pair that with the region’s compelling historical past and vibrant small towns, and you’ve got one very memorable trip....

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Check Out These Charming Small Towns in Almost Heaven

Get a true taste of west virginia along this memorable route, a memorable trip through the potomac highlands.

Defined by its rivers and lush forests, this region in southern West Virginia has some of the most spectacular outdoor recreation.

Explore Some of West Virginia's Most Stunning Sights

Just a short drive outside of the Washington and Baltimore metro areas, this loop through West Virginia’s Eastern Panhandle is both a relaxing and enlightening weekend getaway.

You Can Take a Drive and a Dip Along This Historic Loop

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Whether you prefer a luxury retreat at a world-class resort or a rustic campsite stay under starry night skies, West Virginia has accommodations for every type of traveler. As you plan your mountain road trip, explore one-of-a-kind stays and traditional comforts along the way. The peace and solitude of Almost Heaven is just an overnight stay away.

Current Season

Blooming rhododendrons. Wildflower hikes. Rushing waterfalls. Welcome to spring in West Virginia. It's the season where Almost Heaven comes alive.

Escape the churn and burn of the daily routine and hit the road this summer. Explore wide open spaces with plenty of room to roam.

Nature works her magic every autumn in West Virginia. As the third most forested state, our country roads are vibrant with color and a sight to behold in the fall.

The wonder of winter in West Virginia is filled with untouched fallen snow, scrapes of skates along fresh ice and snow-capped mountain views you have to see to believe.

West Virginia Waterfall Trail

Chasing waterfalls takes on a whole new meaning in West Virginia with the nation’s first-ever statewide Waterfall Trail. Waterfall wondering is the perfect all-year outdoor activity for solo explorers and the whole family alike. Download the West Virginia Waterfall Trail passport, check into waterfalls and earn waterfall-themed prizes as you explore!

Already signed up but having trouble logging in?

Email, call or text [email protected] / (888) 921-5333 to have your passport re-sent straight to your phone.

Get Started Today

Step 1 – Sign Up

Register to get your West Virginia Waterfall Trail Passport by clicking here and filling out your contact information.

Step 2 – Get Your Passport

After signing up, your digital passport for the waterfall trail will be instantly delivered to your phone via text or to the email provided.

Step 3 – Check-In

Explore the waterfalls of West Virginia! Open your passport on your phone, scroll to find the waterfall you’re visiting and check in to mark it off your list.

VISIT WATERFALLS, UNLOCK PRIZES

Check in at 3 locations:.

Receive an official Waterfall Trail sticker

Check in at 10 locations:

Receive an official Waterfall Trail water bottle

Check in at 20 locations:

Receive an official Waterfall Trail t-shirt

Check in at all locations:

Receive a limited edition letterpress print

Waterfall wanderers should redeem the first three prizes directly in the passport. Those committed passport-holders who check in at all the waterfalls on our list, will receive an email from the West Virginia Department of Tourism team coordinating the shipment of the grand prize — a custom waterfall-inspired letterpress print from Base Camp Printing.

Spotty service while chasing waterfalls? No problem! Check in when you’re able to reconnect! All check ins can be done within a 5-mile radius of each location.

For any questions regarding the check ins, and to submit photos of sites where you were unable to check in, please contact Bandwango by email ( [email protected] ) or phone (888-921-5333). For other questions, please call the West Virginia Department of Tourism at (304) 558-2200.

*Limit one sticker, water bottle and t-shirt per completed passport. Passports are valid through December 31st, 2024. No purchase necessary to participate.

Discover Featured Falls

Sandstone falls.

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Falls of Hills Creek

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Mill Creek Falls of Hawk’s Nest

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Glade Creek Falls

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Valley Falls

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Upper and Lower Falls of Holly River

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Oglebay Falls

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Mill Creek Falls of Kumbrabow

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Kanawha Falls

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Muddy Creek Falls

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Finn’s Falls

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Elakala Falls

The gorgeous Elakala Falls is a series of four waterfalls found within Blackwater Falls State Park. With waters stained from hemlock and red… View More

Cathedral Falls

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Campbell Falls

Well-known for its picturesque backdrop, Campbell Falls can be found within Camp Creek State Park in the mountains of Mercer County. With a … View More

Brush Creek Falls

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Marsh Fork Falls and Black Fork Falls

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Falls of Pendleton

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Butcher Branch Falls

Butcher Branch Falls tumbles down a tiered sandstone wall, creating a series of picturesque cascades. Find this secluded spot by following B… View More

Mash Fork Falls

Home to Camp Creek State Park, Mash Falls lies within the forest of Mercer County along Mash Fork – which empties into Camp Creek. Standin… View More

Whitaker Falls

Whitaker Falls is a small series of cascades surrounded by stunning greenery perfect for your Instagram feed. Located within the Randolph Co… View More

High Falls of the Cheat

Winding through Shavers Mountain in the Potomac Highlands, the High Falls of the Cheat is one of the Mountain State’s most distinctive water… View More

Westerly Falls

Westerly Falls, also known as Paint Creek Falls, is a charming, short-dropped waterfall in Fayette County. With water plummeting from 5 to 7… View More

Sugar Camp Run Falls

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Clear Fork Rail Trail Waterfall

To find this deceptively unassuming beauty, watch for rail trail signs along WV Route 1, also known as Clear Fork Road. The closest access p… View More

Parkinson’s Waterfall

Nestled in Bethany College’s leafy and historic campus, this waterfall is a familiar feature to students and a delightful surprise for vis… View More

Flanagan Branch Falls

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White Oak Falls

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Little Whitestick Falls

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Blackwater Falls

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Tucker Falls

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Cranberry Creek Cascades

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Pipestem Falls

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WV Waterfalls in the News

The stunning cascades that call West Virginia home are in the national spotlight year-round – thanks to their breathtaking nature. Explore the West Virginia waterfall highlights below before claiming your passport.

14 Stunning Frozen Waterfalls Across North America

The Country’s First Waterfall Trail Just Added 9 New Cascades — Including One With a 30-foot Drop

New waterfall trail in West Virginia promises 29 ‘breathtaking’ falls

Nominate a waterfall.

Did we leave out a waterfall in your region? Check out our criteria for visitor-ready waterfall sites and nominate a waterfall that we missed here .

Explore Our Frequently Asked Questions

I did not have cell phone service at a waterfall that I visited. How can I get help retroactively checking in? 

Call, text or email Bandwango, the technology company hosting this passport, at one of the following to get checked in after your visit. – Call or text: (888) 921-5333 – Email: [email protected]

Please provide a photo of the waterfall you visited and/or the waterfall trail sign on location. 

I am already signed up but am having trouble finding my passport!

What is the length of the waterfall trail and how long does it take to complete?

The West Virginia Waterfall Trail is a collection of 40 waterfalls (so far!), not a linear trail. We invite you to visit the waterfalls in any order and combination you’d like. It’s a choose-your-own-adventure menu of hikes and roadside stops to select from according to your preferences, and so there is not a predetermined time or distance associated with the trail itself. 

To inspire your travels, the West Virginia Waterfall Trail has been split into four regional road trips. Choose from sections in the Southeastern or Northern portions of the state, the Potomac Highlands or the New River – Greenbrier Valley .  

Which waterfalls are accessible? 

We have noted in the waterfall descriptions which can be viewed via accessible paths and which are located on the roadside and may even be viewed at a distance from your vehicle.

I didn’t provide my address when I signed up for my passport. How will you know where to ship my prizes?

Once you have checked in at enough waterfalls to be eligible for a prize, you will receive an email and/or text message (depending on the contact information you provided when you signed up). This communication will ask you to redeem your prize, and you’ll be invited to enter your address at that point. 

If I redeem one prize (the sticker for example, after visiting three waterfalls) does my check-in count reset to zero for the next prize? 

No, the waterfall check-ins are cumulative. So, after you redeem your sticker, you’ll need to check into seven more waterfalls to reach a total of 10 check-ins and redeem the water bottle prize.

I have a child who would like their own passport but they don’t have a cell phone. How can they get a passport and check-in? 

We would love for your whole family to join in on the waterfall fun! We recommend using a secondary email address to sign your child up for their passport. Follow the link in the introductory email that you receive at that alternate address and save the passport to your phone’s home screen. You may want to include an identifier, such as the child’s initials, when you create the icon on your home screen that you’ll use for their passport. This will help you keep track of who has checked in and where. 

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Happening now in #AlmostHeaven West Virginia

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Travel info, waterfalls in the upper peninsula.

Hear the water roar and whisper depending on where you are at! The waterfalls in the Upper Peninsula almost all require hiking to reach, but there are several barrier-free paths to some of the most popular ones. These are a must-do on your U.P. vacation bucket list.

Best waterfalls in Michigan

It is pretty easy to have the best waterfalls in the state because the U.P. is home to all but one of Michigan’s waterfalls. From trickling waters that gently caress the rock surface and flow into small creeks to the large falls cascading towering cliffs, this is the place to come if you want to see waterfalls in action.

How many waterfalls does the Upper Peninsula have? 

There are 300+ waterfalls scattered across the U.P., ranging in size from under 5 feet to 48+ feet vertical drops. Use the “Show map” function at the top right of the listings below to see just how widespread they are. Several will likely fall along your trip trajectory, and we encourage you to see as many as you can.

See our waterfalls in all four seasons

Spring is the best time to see our waterfalls because the increase in groundwater, rainfall and snowmelt make for some added fury as they fall. Even the smallest of falls roar to life this time of year! However, all seasons are beautiful. Summer invites warmer temperatures and hiking weather — both of which make hiking to these falls possible in 15 minutes or less. Autumn makes watercolor paintings come to life. Vibrant leaf colors surround and reflect in the bodies of water around the falls, somehow making them even more picturesque than before. Even in the winter, we have activity on the falls! Don’t miss out on seeing these beasts seemingly frozen in time . If you’re up to the challenge, try ice climbing. Munising and Miners Falls are favorite columns of ice to scale.

Plan your waterfall trip to the U.P. 

If you’re looking to be in a specific region, then check out our pages dedicated to Western U.P. waterfalls , Eastern and Central U.P. waterfalls . We also have several pet friendly waterfalls so you can bring your furry friends along for the adventure. Make sure to book a stay overnight so you can see even more magnificent waterfalls tomorrow.

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10+ Best Upper Peninsula Michigan waterfalls (prettiest!) 🌳 map + Michigan waterfalls road trip! 🌳 Michigan travel blog

Michigan is home to a bunch of waterfalls.

The vast majority of these waterfalls are located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

So if you want to make it a Michigan waterfalls trip, then a trip to the UP it is!

As it goes with waterfalls, there may be times that there’s not as much water flow so depending on the time you visit, some waterfalls may appear more like a trickle.

But, there are also waterfalls that will likely have good water flows no matter when you go.

By making it an Upper Peninsula waterfalls trip, you can have the chance right alongside rivers to get to waterfalls.

You can have the chance to see rivers flowing into a great big lake, and it can be both a hike to see waterfalls and a hike to go to Lake Superior.

And then you can also get up close and personal with some waterfalls!

Best Michigan waterfalls in the Upper Peninsula

• Tahquamenon Falls State Park waterfalls

If you’re driving up from the south from the Mackinac Bridge and the lower peninsula, then you’ll end up in the eastern Upper Peninsula . You can then make your first waterfalls stop Tahquamenon Falls State Park . There are 2 main sections to see the waterfalls that flow along the Tahquamenon River. It’s about a 10 minute drive between the 2 parking areas.

1. Tahquamenon Falls ( Upper Falls )

There’s a short trail to go to the Upper Falls overlook.

See more about Upper Falls .

2. tahquamenon falls (lower falls).

There are a couple of ways you can experience the Lower Falls area of Tahquamenon Falls State Park. 

There’s a short trail to go to the Lower Falls overlook. And if you want to REALLY experience Lower Falls, you’ll want to rent a rowboat to go to the Tahquamenon River island. There’s a short trail that loops around the island, and along the way you can get up close and personal with the Tahquamenon River and the waterfalls that are flowing along the way.

See more about planning a trip to Tahquamenon Falls:

• How to spend your time at Tahquamenon Falls State Park
• Camping at Tahquamenon Falls State Park
• More things to do in the eastern UP
• Teva walking sandals for women (one of the best sandal brands for the outdoors)
• Teva sandals for men
• Rain poncho in case it rains and it won't stop you from doing things outside!
• Merrell hiking shoes for women (one of the best outdoor shoe brands, perfect for state park and national lakeshore trails!)
• Merrell hiking shoes for men
• Water shoes if you want to wade in the water in search of colorful rocks
• Moisture-wicking tech t-shirt for women perfect for hot days when you'll be outside a lot
• tech-t-shirt for men
• Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore waterfalls

The next 5 waterfalls on the list are a part of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore .

Ideally you’ll have at least 2 days in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore to see all of these waterfalls. Although I suppose you could see them all in one day if you’re ready for a big day of hiking and you’re ready for a long day! The good news is that summer days in the UP are long!

3. Sable Falls

These are the easternmost waterfalls you can see in the park. You’ll take a hiking trail to go see them. Then, you’ll want to continue on the hiking trail so you can hike all the way to the Lake Superior shoreline. This is where you’ll find Sable Beach, which is full of colorful rocks. You’ll also be able to see where a river flows into Lake Superior.

See more about Sable Falls .

4. Chapel Falls

There are 2 Chapel Falls overlooks that you can hike to. Then you can continue on the trail to get up close to a river and some smaller waterfalls.

See more about Chapel Falls .

And then if you continue further, you’ll end up at Lake Superior where you can see Chapel Rock , the rock with a tree growing on it.

The trail continues along the Lake Superior shoreline for a couple of minutes, and then you’ll end up at Chapel Beach. Here, you can see another river that flows into Lake Superior, and these have the appearance of being small waterfalls that flow into Lake Superior!

And then if you continue hiking further, you can see the famous Pictured Rocks cliffs!

5. Miners Falls

You’ll hike to the Miners Falls overlook where you’ll be treated to waterfalls with likely lots of water flowing.

See more about Miners Falls .

6. Elliot Falls

These are small waterfalls that flow into Lake Superior at the eastern end of Miners Beach, so off to the far right as you’re facing the lake. Depending on when you go, there may not be a ton of water flowing, but they can still be cute little waterfalls to see.

You’ll go to Miners Beach, and then make it a beach walk to get to Elliot Falls, or you can hike on higher grounds making it a shoreline hike with views of Lake Superior to get to Elliot Falls. If you want to make it a longer hike, you can hike from Miners Castle Point to Elliot Falls too.

7. Munising Falls

These are waterfalls with several different viewpoints that you can hike to. The start of the trail is near a Pictured Rocks visitor center.

See more about Munising Falls .

See more about planning a trip to the Pictured Rocks waterfalls:

• The list of Pictured Rocks waterfalls
• More things to do in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Waterfalls in/near Munising

These next 3 waterfalls you can do together. 2 of them are roadside waterfalls that you can see from the road, but you may want to get out of the car to get closer to them. Maybe give yourself 2 hours or so to see them all.

8. Alger Falls

You can get out of the car and get right next to these waterfalls.

See more about Alger Falls .

9. Wagner Falls

This Michigan state scenic site is located down the road from Alger Falls.

See more about Wagner Falls .

10. Scott Falls

You can get out of the car and walk behind these waterfalls!

See more about Scott Falls .

11. Laughing Whitefish Falls

These waterfalls are also somewhat near Munising (40 minute drive). So if you’re staying in Munising, you can easily visit these on the same day you go to the other Munising waterfalls if you want to make it a waterfalls day. But if you have plans to head further west, it can be convenient to add these waterfalls to your road trip is when you’re driving from Munising to Marquette. These are less visited waterfalls.

See more about planning a trip to Laughing Whitefish Falls:

• Trail to Laughing Whitefish Falls
• More things to do on the drive from Munising to Marquette

12. Bond Falls

There’s a good chance that you will see a ton of water flowing at these waterfalls. You can also explore a little more and walk along the river to see more spots and different viewpoints to get up close and personal with the river.

See more about Bond Falls .

Nearby Bond Falls is the Agate Falls roadside park . If you do a google image search of Agate Falls , you’ll see some impressive looking waterfalls. It seems like you need to take an unmarked trail or something to reach the river level. Otherwise, there’s an overlook that you can rock to and see the waterfalls from above, although the view is a bit obstructed because of trees.

Porcupine Mountains State Park waterfalls : Presque Isle River waterfalls

And now this is the far western Upper Peninsula. You can take the Presque Isle River Trail that will take you to viewpoints of 3 waterfalls (the next 3 on the list). You can make it a loop by hiking on both sides of the river.

13. Nawadaha Falls

14. Manido Falls

15. Manabezho Falls

See more about planning a trip to the Porcupine Mountains waterfalls:

• Trail to Porcupine Mountains waterfalls
• How to spend your time in Porcupine Mountains State Park
• Presque Isle campground
• Union Bay campground

UPPER PENINSULA MICHIGAN WATERFALLS MAP: The Upper Peninsula waterfalls tour route!

List of Michigan waterfalls you need to see:

• Alger Falls
• Wagner Falls State Scenic Site
• Scott Falls
• Laughing Whitefish Falls State Scenic Site
• Bond Falls State Scenic Site
• Porcupine Mountains State Park waterfalls

And those are some ideas for a Michigan waterfalls road trip!

You can make it a Michigan lighthouse tour in the UP too!

Also see about making it a Michigan camping trip in the UP !

HAPPY SEEING WATERFALLS IN THE UPPER PENINSULA!

• Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
• Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore
• Upper Peninsula Michigan
• Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

Kohala Waterfalls Adventure

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Kohala Waterfalls Small Group Adventure Tour

Private Ohana Kohala Waterfalls Adventure

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Kohala Waterfalls Adventure - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)