The beautiful waterfalls in lower Michigan and the UP attract people from all over, including Jennifer and me!
Did you know that there are over 300 amazing waterfalls in the state of Michigan? From tall water cascades to wide waterways that drop over steps of limestone, there are many beautiful waterfalls you won't want to miss.
If you've followed RV Lifestyle for any length of time, you know Michigan's Upper Peninsula is one of our favorite places in the country to visit. These waterfalls are a part of that attraction!
We're going to cover the best of the best, from the UP down to one of the only waterfalls in lower Michigan! (Oh, and don't miss our Adventure Guide of the Great Lakes at the end.)
NOTE: COME BACK TOMORROW to learn about winter camping tips and Tahquamenon Falls, the site of annual our winter campout!
15 Most Popular Waterfalls in Michigan by Region
Michigan waterfalls are some of the most beautiful in the United States because they are surrounded by colorful landscapes. Its water features range from the Upper Peninsula (UP) to the Great Lakes region near Michigan's lower peninsula.
The UP has all of them – except for one in the Lower Peninsula.
Let's divide the list by regions.
Eastern Upper Peninsula Waterfalls
Many of the larger waterfalls worth seeing in the Eastern Upper Peninsula are in the Munising area. You can see quite a few in one day if you'd like.
1. Tahquamenon Falls – Paradise
Tahquamenon Falls has a series of drops along the Tahquamenon River that are simply breathtaking. The Upper Falls is also the largest of all of Michigan's waterfalls at 50 feet tall and 200 feet wide. Talk about sheer power and beauty!
During the springtime, more than 50,000 gallons of water flow drops from the top of the falls each second.
The falls are also a feast for your ears! A low rumble of the falls can be heard from the parking area, and then as you approach them on the path they turn into a thundering roar.
This series of waterfalls offer easy access from the parking lot. Bring the whole family to enjoy this scenic site!
2. Ice Curtains in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore – Munising
The shelf of sandstone that runs between Laughing Whitefish Falls to Tahquamenon Falls creates the Munising Formation. This is due in part for the cluster of gorgeous waterfalls in this area of the state.
The area is actually known for its “frozen waterfalls” and ice curtains but has plenty to offer all 4 seasons.
3. Spray falls – Munising
The best way to see Spray Falls is to sail out onto Lake Superior. These falls plunge over 70 feet of flowing water over sandstone cliffs into the lake below. The backdrop is gorgeous, featuring multiple colored layers of minerals in the rock.
If you do not want to take a boat cruise, you can also access the falls via the North County National Scenic Trail.
4. Sable Falls – Munising
Located in Grand Marais, follow one of the area's nature trails for about a half-mile from the parking lot to see the picturesque Sable Falls. The falls feature a flowing waterfall with a total 75-foot drop over sandstone cliffs. Then take a look at the agate-dotted beach located at the base of the falls.
5. Wagner Falls – Munising
Another natural beauty, Wagner Falls is easily accessible and provides excellent photos! Locate these falls via a short walk through the woods.
In the spring, enjoy Marsh Marigolds in bloom. Then come back in the fall for some gorgeous fall foliage!
6. Munising Falls – Munising
You can easily access Munising Falls using both trails and wooden sidewalks, offering multiple viewing locations. Do not miss these picturesque falls when visiting Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore!
7. Miners Falls – Munising
Another one of the Mitten State's natural wonders. Miners Falls is located approximately five miles north of Alger County Road H-58, off of Miners Castle Road. They are well marked, but a little off the beaten path.
View the falls by hiking the mile-long nature trail to an overlook near the base of the falls.
8. Horseshoe Falls – Munising area
Horseshoe Falls is a little different than the other waterfalls in Michigan. That is because they are privately owned. You can pay a small admission fee to access the falls. And to many people, it is worth it!
The waterfall features a 20-foot drop from the top into a cascading fall at the bottom. They also have a cute little gift shop.
Keweenaw Peninsula Waterfalls
9. Hungarian Falls – Hubbell
There is a lot to see and do in the Keweenaw Peninsula area. In the 10-acre Keweenaw Land Trust, you can view a pond, dam, woodland trails, and the Keweenaw Fault.
But you will not want to miss the picturesque waterfalls known as the Hungarian Falls, They cascade over a 30-foot drop, then flow through a short gorge. You can then travel downstream from the pond and dam to view three additional falls!
10. Jacob's Falls – Eagle River
Located on the south side of M-26 about three miles northeast of Eagle River, Jacob's Falls flow over a 40-foot drop. You can hike the trail into the woods that hug the steep rocks. Then visit the nearby Holy Transfiguration Skete with a monk-run store, featuring snacks, baked goods, fresh preserves and chocolates.
Marquette Area Waterfalls
11. Rock River Falls – Auger County
Located in the Rock River Wilderness near Chatham, about 25 miles from Munising, these falls feature a 15-foot drop that fans out as it flows off the rocks.
The waterfall is remote, and a little difficult to access. You will want to make sure that you come prepared with sturdy footwear and extra time to access them.
Since Rock River Falls is located in a wilderness area, you will have to use logging roads, and trails that are not well marked. It is definitely a spot for the adventurous spirit!
12. Bond Falls – Paulding
Out near Paulding, you can discover some spectacular falls. They are easily accessible via wheelchair, and fun to watch and listen to!
Then stop in town for some ice cream and to find out more about the “Paulding Lights.” There are reports going back 40 years about mysterious lights in the town!
13. Laughing Whitefish Falls – Marquette
Some of the most scenic falls around, Laughing Whitefish Falls features a 100-foot cascading waterfall. No wonder it is one of the most photographed falls in the state!
You can reach the top of the waterfall via a mile-long, round trip scenic trail.
Western Upper Peninsula Waterfalls
14. Potawatomi Falls – Ironwood
There are five enchanting waterfalls in the Black River National Forest Scenic Byway. One not to miss is the Potawatomi Falls.
They are gorgeous due in part to how the water flows over the fascinating rock formations.
While it is an accessible waterfall, there are stairs to climb to reach the overlook.
Waterfalls in Lower Michigan
15. Ocqueoc Falls – Ocqueoc
Located in Michigan's Lower Peninsula, these gorgeous falls are the only recognized waterfall in the area. That means it can sometimes get overlooked. But you won't want to miss it!
Meander along the gorgeous hiking trail, then enjoy lunch at the picnic tables. There are even grills if you want to barbecue!
More Waterfalls in Lower Michigan?
If you go waterfalling even more, check out these 13 Stunning Waterfalls in the U.S.
Mike and Jennifer's Great Lakes Bundle – 2 ebooks!
This bundle is our popular Upper Peninsula RV Adventure Guide PLUS our newest Adventure Guide – The Great Lakes Shoreline Tour! Both ebooks will give you plenty of ideas and resources to enjoy this part of the US.
May 27, 2023at12:06 pm, Karin Green said:
Do you have a tour of the Michigan falls, I don’t have an RV.
May 30, 2023at9:18 am, Team RV Lifestyle said:
Hi Karin – Mike and Jen are RVers so they write about exploring the world in an RV, and things connected to it. Thanks for asking, though! Team RV Lifestyle