Algonquin Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainPhoto Credits (1)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Algonquin Falls
Algonquin Falls sits tucked inside Michigan’s Upper Peninsula within the Ottawa National Forest and is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The falls offer a peaceful cascade framed by mature northern hardwoods and are a popular short destination for hikers and photographers looking for a quick, scenic outing in federally managed forestland. The approach follows USFS route NFST-128-B (Trail #T128-B), making it easy to find on Forest Service maps and signage. The hike is a moderate out-and-back route of roughly 2.4 miles with about 350 feet of elevation gain, so it’s accessible for most hikers who are comfortable on uneven terrain. If you’re planning to camp nearby, Black River Harbor Pavilion is the closest developed campsite at about 6.23 km from the falls, making overnight trips and sunrise/sunset visits very doable from a nearby basecamp.
The Setting
Algonquin Falls sits at 984 feet within Ottawa National Forest, fed by the Presque Isle River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy hike follows Nfst 128 B (#T128-B), a 1.0-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
NFST-128-B #T128-B
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.52 miTrail Description
The trail to Algonquin Falls follows USFS Trail NFST-128-B (Trail #T128-B) and is recorded as a Class 3 route with a native surface and a typical grade of 0–5%. USFS GIS records list a 0.52-mile segment for NFST-128-B that forms part of the approach; the full outing is a moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain. Expect a natural tread—tree roots, rocks and sections of soft ground—so wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for uneven or muddy conditions after rain.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Algonquin Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Algonquin Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Ottawa National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Exercise caution on slippery rocks near the falls. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, and carry a map or GPS as cell service may be limited.
Current Water Conditions
35 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 3 years of record
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge PRESQUE ISLE RIVER NEAR CONNORVILLE, MI (12 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
36 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
35 cfs
4/10Tue
Barely Flowing
36 cfs
3/10Wed
Low
38 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
38 cfs
4/10Fri
Barely Flowing
35 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
34 cfs
5/10Best window: Fri — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Bessemer hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
The bare-earth surface loses about 15 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 983 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 96 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 58 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing northwest, the falls stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 983 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 15 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Algonquin Falls is located near the town of Rockland in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Access typically involves driving on forest roads, which may be unpaved and rough in some sections. A short hike is required to reach the falls.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but it may be limited and unmarked. Visitors should prepare for basic or rustic parking conditions.
Elevation
984 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.617168° N, -90.075729° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during spring or after heavy rainfall for the best water flow. Bring bug spray during summer months, as mosquitoes can be prevalent. Be cautious of slippery rocks near the falls.
Where to Stay
North Ironwood Acres - Black River Lodge
Snow Otter Haus - 1
Snow Otter Haus - 2
Quality Inn Ironwood
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
BLACK RIVER HARBOR PAVILION
3.9 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Planning a visit to the Black River Harbor Pavilion? Watch for Alerts at the top of the page for any Alerts regarding this facility. The Black River Harbor Pavilion is located within the Black Harbor Recreation Area on Lake Superior in Michigans Upper Peninsula. The historic stone and wood pavilion was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Recreation Lake Superior offers great opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The North Country National Scenic Trail
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park and other waterfalls in the Upper Peninsula, such as Bond Falls and Agate Falls.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should also be aware of the possibility of encountering black bears.
Cities near Algonquin Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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