From our Great Lakes to our cool, shaded forests, there’s no shortage of natural beauty here in Michigan. While there are plenty of classic hiking trails to explore throughout the state, nothing adds extra excitement to a trek quite like the presence of a waterfall. It would be impossible to include each and every stunning locale in one article, but we’ve compiled a list of nine of the very best waterfall hikes in Michigan that you will absolutely love.

1. Trail To Upper Falls, Tahquamenon Falls
Flickr/kamikazekyle10
You’ll find hikes within Tahquamenon Falls State Park that cater to all skill levels, but we’ll keep it simple — for a relaxing, partially paved hike toward Michigan’s most famous falls, walk directly from the parking lot and start your journey on a quarter-mile wooded path. You’ll end your short trek with a magical glimpse of the falls and memories to last a lifetime.
2. Bond Falls Loop
Flickr/Deb Nystrom
This gorgeous Michigan spot allows for a scenic hike that loops around for just under a mile. The Bond Falls hike itself isn't strenuous, so every member of your family can enjoy the unique ambiance of this Michigan gem. Upon reaching the falls, you'll marvel at rushing water as it flows over fractured volcanic rock. It's positively sublime.
3. Laughing Whitefish Falls Trail
Flickr/Sara Hattie
Take a mile-long trek through the forested beauty that surrounds Laughing Whitefish River in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The trail itself is far from strenuous and offers lovely views along the way, but the real gem of this hike is access to Laughing Whitefish Falls themselves. Make sure to bring your camera -- this is one hike you'll certainly want to remember.
4. North Country Trail
Flickr/James Marvin Phelps
If you’re a more experienced hiker looking for the ultimate waterfall trek, make the journey way north to the Porcupine Mountains and embark on this 11-mile hike through some of Michigan’s most incredible natural splendor. Follow the trail from Bessemer as it winds alongside the Black River and makes its way toward Lake Superior. During this hike, you’ll see seven — yes, SEVEN — separate waterfalls. Does it get much better than that?

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5. Sturgeon Falls Hike
Flickr/Deb
This hike is short, but it offers a more challenging option for hiking enthusiasts who want to catch stunning waterfall views. During the one-mile trek, you’ll pass through forested wonder and have the chance to refresh your mind and body with that clear Upper Peninsula air. The pinnacle of your hike comes about when you reach the gorgeous rushing waters of Sturgeon Falls.
6. Ocqueoc Falls Trail
Flickr/Stephen
As the only publicly accessible "major" waterfall in the Lower Peninsula, Ocqueoc Falls is an absolute must-visit for Michiganders of all ages. The trail can be accessed near Millersburg and stretches on for just .3 miles before giving way to lovely views of the falls. This is the perfect starter waterfall hike if you’re just beginning to explore Michigan’s great outdoors. You can also camp at the beautiful waterfall campground here.
7. Munising Falls Trail
Flickr/Jim Renaud
If you find yourself near Munising, you’ll likely be overwhelmed with the variety of natural attractions to explore. While there are multiple waterfalls in the area, majestic waterfalls in MichiganMunising Falls is a fantastic starting point. The trail to the falls stretches on for just 800 feet, so it’s a great mini-hike for small children who might not be game for a longer journey. The beauty of the falls will blow you away, no matter what your age.
8. Sable Falls Trail
Flickr/Jennifer
Embark on this .6 mile hike to check out the magical scenery of Sable Falls, located near the lovely community of Grand Marais. The trail is available year-round, so you can plan your visit for any season — and it’s accessible enough to be used by hikers of nearly all athletic abilities. The falls themselves are lovely and the hike is stunning — what’s not to love?
9. Canyon Falls and Gorge Trail
Flickr/Jim Sorbie
Located approximately 15 miles south of L’Anse, this hike is perfect if you’re ready to be blown away by the beauty of our home state. Embark on this one-mile hike at Canyonn Falls, which primarily follows level terrain and is suitable for all ages. The falls are breathtaking; the gorge itself is like a mini Grand Canyon, and the fresh air is nothing short of wonderful. This is one hike that you might just want to embark on over and over again.

This is just a handful of the absolute best waterfall hikes in Michigan — but certainly not all of the state’s wondrous waterfall trails! These majestic waterfalls in Michigan will absolutely make your jaw drop

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Best Waterfall Hikes In Michigan

Sarah | March 12, 2021

What national wonders are found in Michigan?

With a variety of ecosystems and dramatic regional landscapes, The Great Lake State’s natural wonders are all absolutely breathtaking. One of our very favorite wonders is Sleeping Bear Dunes. Located on Lake Michigan’s northeastern shore, Sleeping Bear Dunes occupies 35 sandy miles that will leave you in awe. With miles of shoreline, sandy beaches, and impressive sand dunes, it has everything you need for the perfect getaway. Getting lost in the remote pockets of colossal dunes feels like traversing another planet. In fact, Sleeping Bear is visible from space!

What are some picturesque hikes in Michigan?

Lake of the Clouds is absolutely picture-perfect. Tucked away in the Porcupine Mountains State Park, The Lake of the Clouds easily ranks among the most beautiful places on earth, regardless of the season. Accessible hikes, such as the 2.8-mile Lake of the Clouds Trail, leads visitors through the lavish scenery with idyllic spots to take in the lake’s spectacular setting. The Lake of the Clouds Trail leads to a scenic overlook that will render you absolutely awestruck. Thick forest lines the pristine lake waters, creating a scene almost too breathtaking to be real. This picturesque hike is peak Pure Michigan.

What are the best family-friendly hikes in Michigan?

While many of the above lists of best waterfall hikes in Michigan are family-friendly, they certainly aren't the only accessible trails in the state. The trails at Hemlock Crossing County Park in West Olive wind through various enchanting wildlife habitats with paved path options for strollers, plus a super cool nature center. On the other side of the state, the mile-long Pond Trail in Northville’s Maybury State Park is stunning, and if you're lucky, you may even spot a few horses trotting the equestrian trail alongside! Another place with accessible hikes is Saugatuck Dunes State Park. The park boasts an impressive 1,000 acres of public recreation areas including sand dunes, beaches, and various picnic spots.

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Featured Addresses
Tahquamenon Falls, McMillan Township, MI 49768, USA
Bond Falls Rd, Michigan, USA
Laughing Whitefish Falls Rd, Rock River Township, MI 49885, USA
North Country Trail, Everett Township, MI, USA
Sturgeon Falls, Laird Township, MI 49958, USA
Ocqueoc Falls, Ocqueoc Township, MI 49759, USA
Munising Falls, Munising, MI 49862, USA
Sable Falls, Burt Township, MI 49839, USA
Canyon Falls, L'Anse Township, MI 49946, USA