LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Big Garlic River Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Big Garlic River Falls
Big Garlic River Falls is a scenic waterfall located along the Big Garlic River in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. It features a series of cascading drops surrounded by lush forest, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
The Setting
Big Garlic River Falls sits at 1,391 feet along the East Branch Salmon Trout River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Big Garlic River Falls is short and relatively flat, making it accessible for most visitors. It winds through a wooded area and leads directly to the falls. The path may be uneven in places, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
What to Expect
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 Big Garlic River Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Big Garlic River Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the water flow is strongest during these seasons.
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, especially after rain. Exercise caution when walking near the water. In winter, the trail may be icy and difficult to navigate.
Current Water Conditions
13 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 20 years of record
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
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 EAST BRANCH SALMON TROUT RIVER NEAR DODGE CITY, MI (18 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
13 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
12 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
13 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
15 cfs
5/10Tue
Low
16 cfs
4/10Wed
Low
15 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
14 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to mid May, peaking in April.
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 Big Bay 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 63 feet through Big Garlic River Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 1,395 feet.
The ground changes about 7 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 29 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southeast and sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,395 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 63 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Big Garlic River Falls is located near Marquette, Michigan. To reach the falls, visitors typically take County Road 550 north from Marquette, then turn onto Big Garlic River Road. The falls are accessible via a short walk from the road.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Limited roadside parking is available near the trailhead on Big Garlic River Road.
Elevation
1,391 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.670833° N, -87.680833° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit in the spring or after heavy rains for the best water flow. Bring bug spray during the summer months, as mosquitoes can be prevalent. Be cautious of slippery rocks near the water.
Where to Stay
Days Inn by Wyndham Marquette
Comfort Suites Marquette
Holiday Inn Marquette by IHG
My Place Hotel-Marquette, MI
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.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Presque Isle Park in Marquette, Sugarloaf Mountain, and other waterfalls in the Upper Peninsula.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of ticks during warmer months.
Cities near Big Garlic River Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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