Is swimming allowed at Copper Falls?

No, swimming is not allowed at Copper Falls.

Live Conditions · 14 ft³/s · About average

Copper Falls

Q: Are dogs allowed at Copper Falls?

Yes, dogs are allowed at Copper Falls.

Michigan • Isle Royale National Park

By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026

Also For 2 other waterfalls also named Copper Falls, see below

Photo Credits (5)

Mike Sherman Michigan Artist CC BY 2.0 · Flickr

Peter Ciro Photography CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 · Flickr

joeldinda CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Length

2.4 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

Elevation Gain

350 ft

About Copper Falls

Copper Falls is a scenic waterfall located in the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park in Michigan. It is part of the Presque Isle River system and is known for its picturesque surroundings, including dense forests and rugged terrain. The waterfall is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

The Setting

Copper Falls sits at 1,001 feet within Isle Royale National Park, fed by the Pilgrim River, in the foothills of Michigan.

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Eagle River Falls (40 ft) lies 4.8 miles to the west. Also nearby: Jacobs Falls (20 ft, 1.9 mi).

Eagle River Falls Jacobs Falls

Trail & Hike Details

The Approach

The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.

Trail Description

The trail to Copper Falls is a well-maintained loop that follows the Presque Isle River. It features wooden boardwalks, bridges, and scenic overlooks, making it accessible for most visitors. The trail offers stunning views of the river and surrounding forest.

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 Copper Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🤑 Fee: $9.00

🏊 Is There Swimming at Copper Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and early summer are ideal for viewing the falls at their fullest flow, while fall offers stunning foliage. Winter visits may require snowshoes or winter gear.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Isle Royale National Park for current conditions.

Safety Information

Exercise caution near the river and waterfall edges, as rocks can be slippery. Be aware of wildlife and follow park guidelines.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 3 hours ago Barely Flowing

Based on a USGS gauge 29.2 miles away

14 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

About average for this time of year

Very Low Low Normal High Very High

12 13 32 99

Based on 10 years of record

67.70 ft

Water depth at gauge

58°F

Cold

Bracing — limit time in water

7-Day Discharge Trend

What does this mean for your visit?

Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is a bracing 58 degrees F, limit your time in the water. Expect crystal clear visibility and excellent dissolved oxygen levels. Mineral content is typical.

Water Quality

9.0 mg/L

Dissolved Oxygen

Excellent

Supports aquatic life

3.2 FNU

Water Clarity

Crystal clear

Excellent visibility

269 µS/cm

Conductance

Dissolved minerals in the water

About This Gauge

This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.

PILGRIM RIVER AT PARADISE RD NR DODGEVILLE, MI

USGS 04043016

29.2 miles from waterfall

Drainage: 20 sq mi

Altitude: 600 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge PILGRIM RIVER AT PARADISE RD NR DODGEVILLE, MI (47 km away).

Moderate confidence

Barely Flowing right now

14 cfs

↓ Falling

Today

Barely Flowing

14 cfs

5/10

Tomorrow

Barely Flowing

14 cfs

5/10

Mon

Low

18 cfs

3/10

Tue

Low

22 cfs

4/10

Wed

Low

19 cfs

3/10

Thu

Low

17 cfs

3/10

Fri

Low

17 cfs

3/10

Best 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 Eagle Harbor hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.

Weather Forecast

Location & Access

Getting There

Copper Falls is located within the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Visitors can access the falls via the Presque Isle River area, which is well-marked within the park.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available at the Presque Isle River area within the state park. The parking lot is typically well-maintained and provides access to several trails leading to the falls.

Elevation

1,001 feet above sea level

Coordinates

47.430556° N, -88.195833° W

Visitor Tips & Gear

Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be slippery, especially after rain. Bring insect repellent during the summer months. Arrive early during peak seasons to secure parking and enjoy a quieter experience.

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With 2.4 miles and 350 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.