LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Bathtub Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Bathtub Falls
Bathtub Falls is a small, picturesque cascade tucked into Michigan’s Upper Peninsula within the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. The falls earn their name from a shallow, tub-like plunge pool formed by the sculpted bedrock—a quietly scenic spot that’s popular for short hikes, quick photo stops, and moments of stillness amid the trees. The site sits inside the state park managed by SDNR (land unit: Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park; designation: SP; manager: SPR). Reaching the falls involves a moderate out-and-back hike of 2.4 miles with about 350 feet of elevation gain. The route threads through a wooded corridor and includes some short, steeper pitches and uneven footing, which is why hikers should bring sturdy shoes. The overall feel is inviting and tranquil—perfect for hikers who want a compact but rewarding outing in the Porcupine Mountains.
The Setting
Bathtub Falls sits at 666 feet within Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, fed by the Presque Isle River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail type: out-and-back, length: 2.4 miles, elevation gain: ~350 ft, difficulty: moderate. The tread follows a natural, wooded path that remains relatively straightforward but includes short steep sections and uneven rock or rooty stretches that account for the moderate rating. Expect narrow singletrack and some rocky or packed-dirt surfaces; poles and firm footwear help on the steeper pitches. There is no USFS trail number provided for this route (it’s inside a state park), and no separate USFS surface/grade/class data was supplied. The route is best approached as a short, moderate-state-park trail rather than a fully developed Forest Service trail.
What to Expect
Swimming is permitted. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Bathtub Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Bathtub Falls?
✅ Swimming is allowed
When to Visit
Spring and summer are the best times to visit, as the water flow is typically higher and the weather is more favorable. Fall offers stunning foliage, while winter may provide a unique frozen waterfall experience, though access could be more challenging.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Rocks near the falls can be slippery, so exercise caution when walking or wading. Be aware of changing water levels, especially after rain. Always supervise children near the water.
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 (10 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 White Pine 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.
1-meter lidar shows the creek losing roughly 83 feet through Bathtub Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 677 feet.
The ground changes about 52 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 22 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing northeast, 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
- 677 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 83 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- 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 northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Bathtub Falls is located near the Laughing Whitefish River in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. It can be accessed via a short trail off a nearby road, though specific directions may vary depending on the starting point.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited. Visitors should plan to arrive early during peak seasons.
Elevation
666 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.762500° N, -89.877778° W
Land Management
Managed by SPR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and secure parking. Bring water shoes if you plan to wade near the falls, as the rocks can be slippery. Be cautious of changing water levels, especially after heavy rain.
Where to Stay
Scott's Superior Inn and Cabins
Pet-Friendly Michigan Getaway with Porch and Kayaks!
Bergland Bay Bungalow
Walk to Lake Superior: Ontonagon Home w/ Fire Pit!
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 CAMPGROUND
10.3 miles away · 40 sites
Overview Planning a trip to the Black River Harbor Campground? Watch for Alerts at the top of the page for any Alerts regarding this facility. Black River Campground is adjacent to the Black River Harbor Recreation Area. The recreation area includes a pavilion, harbor and a large picnic area. The area provides for many opportunities for fishing, boating, backpacking, hiking, bird watching, photography and beautiful scenery for relaxation in the outdoors. Recreation The campground is adjacent to
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Laughing Whitefish Falls State Park, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, and other waterfalls in the Upper Peninsula.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of insects such as mosquitoes and ticks.
Cities near Bathtub Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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