Cataract Dam Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (2)
About Cataract Dam Falls
Cataract Dam Falls is a small waterfall located near the Cataract Dam in Michigan. It is a scenic spot that may be of interest to visitors exploring the surrounding area. The waterfall is not widely known, and detailed information about its size and flow is limited.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
There is limited information available about any specific trail leading to Cataract Dam Falls. Visitors may need to explore the area around the dam to locate the waterfall.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a small, scenic waterfall near the Cataract Dam. The area may be surrounded by natural beauty, but details about the flow and accessibility of the falls are unclear.
Accessibility
Accessibility information for Cataract Dam Falls is not available. The terrain may be uneven and challenging for those with mobility issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Cataract Dam Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Cataract Dam Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer may be the best times to visit Cataract Dam Falls, as water flow is typically higher during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should exercise caution when exploring the area around the dam and waterfall. Be aware of slippery rocks, uneven terrain, and potential changes in water flow. Always prioritize safety and avoid venturing too close to the water.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Middle Branch Escanaba River, 0.5 miles away, not on Cataract Dam Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
105 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 58 years of record
1.66 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge MIDDLE BRANCH ESCANABA RIVER NR PRINCETON, MI (1 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
113 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
122 cfs
4/10Fri
Low
122 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
133 cfs
4/10Sun
Barely Flowing
123 cfs
4/10Mon
Barely Flowing
116 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
125 cfs
5/10Best window: Mon — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to late 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 Gwinn hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Cataract Dam Falls Frozen?
Updated about 5 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Cataract Dam Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 55°F to 31°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 105 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in Michigan.
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 74 feet through Cataract Dam Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 1,135 feet.
The ground changes about 48 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 17 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northeast and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,135 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 74 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Catches soft morning light.
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
Cataract Dam Falls is located near the Cataract Dam in Michigan. Visitors can access the area by driving to the vicinity of the dam, but specific directions to the waterfall itself are not well-documented.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability near the Cataract Dam is not clearly documented. Visitors should plan to park in designated areas near the dam or along nearby roads where permitted.
Elevation
1,135 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.315833° N, -87.511389° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for uneven terrain if exploring the area around the dam. Bring a map or GPS device as the location of the falls is not well-marked.
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
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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
The Cataract Dam and surrounding natural areas may offer additional opportunities for exploration and photography.
Wildlife
The area around Cataract Dam Falls may be home to local wildlife, including birds and small mammals. Visitors should observe wildlife from a distance and avoid feeding animals.
Cities near Cataract Dam Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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