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NatureHiking

Discover A Little-Known Natural Wonder In Michigan On The 1.5-Mile Tahquamenon Falls Upper Falls Loop Trail

Discover the beauty of Tahquamenon Falls through a 1.5-mile hiking trail in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

Published Mar 8, 2023

Written by 

Megan Todaro

Are you looking for your next outdoor adventure in Michigan? How about one that will take you to a delightful natural wonder known as Tahquamenon Falls? Located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan within Tahquamenon Falls State Park, this hiking trail will take you to the upper falls, which some have said are the most impressive of the two. The Upper Falls Loop Trail is a 1.5-mile trek that will take hikers through nature, across boardwalks, and to some incredible photo-worthy overlooks. It doesn’t get much better than this waterfall trail in Michigan.

Within Tahquamenon Falls State Park, there is a hiking trail that leads to the namesake waterfall series - Tahquamenon Falls.

A scenic view of a waterfall cascading into a river, surrounded by lush green trees under a clear blue sky.
Alltrails Madelyn Stoen

This 1.5-mile loop hike will take hikers to the overlook of the Upper Falls, which some have said is the more majestic of the series.

A serene waterfall cascades into a river, surrounded by lush green trees and a clear blue sky.
Alltrails Kristi G

This hiking trail takes about an hour or less to complete, but you may want to plan for longer, as the overlook is about as beautiful as you can expect if not more.

A wooden staircase descends through trees, leading to a scenic view of a gorge and river below.
Alltrails M O

The trail is rated as easy in terms of challenge, with a minimal change in elevation. However, you will need to climb stairs, so be prepared for that.

A wooden boardwalk winding through a forest, leading down towards a body of water. Trees line the path on both sides.
Alltrails M O

It doesn’t matter which season you take this trek. Although some hikers have noted that during autumn, it’s the most beautiful experience in nature.

A winding path through a vibrant autumn forest with colorful leaves in shades of yellow, orange, and red.
Alltrails M O

Make sure you bring a camera with you - not only is the waterfall pure magic, but the little pockets of nature throughout are worth enjoying, too.

A cluster of small orange mushrooms growing among green ferns and soil in a forest setting.
Alltrails Jennifer Locals

The Upper Falls is one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi, with a drop of nearly 50 feet. And with a width of 200 feet across, this natural wonder is not to be missed.

A scenic view of a waterfall cascading into a river, surrounded by lush green trees under a clear blue sky.
Alltrails Shelly Morgan

Enjoy a jaunt through nature when you trek this waterfall trail in Michigan.

A wooden boardwalk winding through a lush, green forest with trees on either side.
Alltrails Meghan H

Have you hiked this waterfall trail in Michigan before? What did you think about Tahquamenon Falls? Were they a truly magical series of waterfalls? We'd love to hear from you in the comments section! You can also get more information about this waterfall hike, plus the hike to the lower falls, by visiting the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website.

Do you love natural wonders in Michigan? So do we. That's why we've created the ultimate bucket list of Michigan's best natural wonders.

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