Canyon Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Canyon Falls
Canyon Falls, often referred to as the 'Grand Canyon of Michigan,' drops into a narrow, scenic gorge carved by the Sturgeon River in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The canyon offers dramatic river views, ledges and exposed bedrock that make for striking photos and a quietly powerful natural setting favored by day hikers and nature lovers. The falls and access trail lie within a State Forest unit designated PCON and are managed by OTHS, giving the area a more undeveloped, backcountry feel. The most common approach is a 2.4-mile out-and-back route that climbs roughly 350 feet and is rated moderate — a compact hike that delivers multiple viewpoints of the gorge and river without a long commitment.
The Setting
Canyon Falls sits at 1,362 feet within State Forest, fed by the Sturgeon River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Canyon Falls is a 2.4-mile out-and-back that follows the Sturgeon River through State Forest managed by OTHS (PCON unit). Expect about 350 feet of elevation gain; the route is rated moderate and is best for hikers comfortable with short, steady climbs. The path leads to a primary viewing area at the falls and continues along the gorge for those who want to explore further.
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 Canyon Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Canyon Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for viewing the falls at their fullest, but the trail is beautiful in the fall with vibrant foliage. Winter visits may require snowshoes or caution due to icy conditions.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Stay on marked trails and avoid getting too close to the edge of the gorge, as the rocks can be slippery. Exercise caution during wet or icy conditions.
Current Water Conditions
11 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 86 years of record
3.13 ft
Water depth at gauge
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 STURGEON RIVER NEAR SIDNAW, MI (9 km away).
Today
Low
11 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
13 cfs
5/10Sun
Low
12 cfs
6/10Mon
Low
12 cfs
6/10Tue
Low
13 cfs
4/10Wed
Moderate
13 cfs
5/10Thu
Moderate
14 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — low flow, mostly sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to early June, 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 Covington 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 68 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 1,362 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 75 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 69 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southeast and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,362 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 68 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- Catches soft morning 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
Canyon Falls is located off US-41 near L'Anse, Michigan. The trailhead is easily accessible from a rest area parking lot.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a free parking area at the trailhead, which is located at a rest stop along US-41.
Elevation
1,362 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.623548° N, -88.475968° W
Land Management
Managed by OTHS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be muddy or slippery, especially after rain. Bring bug spray during the summer months. If visiting in winter, be cautious of icy conditions.
Where to Stay
Champion Vacation Rental with Fire Pit!
UP Escape in the Pines
Whole home, private lake, sauna, WFH office
Tiny Woodland Cottage Retreat with Yard in Pelkie
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
Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness
10.6 miles away · 0 sites
The Wild and Scenic Sturgeon River rushes out of the northern portion of this wilderness, over the 20 foot volcanic outcroppings of Sturgeon Falls, and through a gorge that reaches 350 feet in depth and a mile in width. Throughout this rugged, steep Wilderness, the Sturgeon and Little Silver Rivers and their tributaries have carved falls, rapids, ponds, oxbows, and terraces. Stunning views are possible from the eastern rim of the gorge. Except for a few naturally bare slopes, most of the land is
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
L'Anse Waterfront Park, Baraga State Park, and the Bishop Baraga Shrine are nearby attractions worth visiting.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of insects like mosquitoes and ticks during warmer months.
Cities near Canyon Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
LiDAR
Other waterfalls named Canyon Falls
4 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
Writing about Canyon Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.