Deer Creek Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Deer Creek Falls
Deer Creek Falls is a small, picture-postcard waterfall tucked into the dense forests of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The falls sit on Deer Creek, which flows into the nearby Escanaba River, and are framed by mossy rocks and a canopy of hardwoods—making the spot a peaceful destination for photographers and anyone seeking a quiet forest escape. Reaching the falls involves a moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back hike with about 350 feet of elevation gain that winds through shaded woodland. The relatively short outing rewards visitors with classic U.P. scenery and a tranquil plunge area, ideal for a half-day adventure from surrounding towns.
The Setting
Deer Creek Falls sits at 1,211 feet along the West Branch Ontonagon River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
This is a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. The route winds through a wooded area and is mostly a natural footpath; it can become muddy or slippery after rain, so sturdy footwear and cautious footing are recommended. Plan for a steady, shaded walk with short climbs rather than steep sustained grades.
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 Deer Creek Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Deer Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring is the best time to visit Deer Creek Falls, as the water flow is usually strongest due to snowmelt. Summer and fall are also good times to visit, offering pleasant weather and colorful foliage.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should exercise caution on the trail, especially after rain, as it may be slippery. Be aware of wildlife and avoid leaving food or trash behind.
Current Water Conditions
32 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 84 years of record
1.19 ft
Water depth at gauge
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 WEST BRANCH ONTONAGON RIVER NEAR BERGLAND, MI (14 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
32 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
32 cfs
5/10Sun
Low
35 cfs
4/10Mon
Barely Flowing
34 cfs
5/10Tue
Low
35 cfs
4/10Wed
Low
36 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
36 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, 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 Lake Gogebic 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.
Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 66 feet of drop through Deer Creek Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 1,214 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 57 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 23 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing northwest, 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
- 1,214 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 66 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- 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 northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Deer Creek Falls is located near the town of Gladstone in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. It can be accessed via local roads, but specific directions may vary depending on the starting point. Visitors are advised to use a GPS or map for navigation.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is limited parking available near the trailhead. Visitors should plan to park in designated areas to avoid blocking access roads.
Elevation
1,211 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.652425° N, -89.697208° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring insect repellent during the summer months, as mosquitoes can be prevalent. Wear sturdy shoes, especially if visiting after rain, as the trail may be muddy. Consider visiting in the spring when water flow is typically at its peak.
Where to Stay
Snow Otter Haus - 2
Snow Otter Haus - 1
Bergland Bay Bungalow
North Ironwood Acres - Black River Lodge
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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Nearby Campground
BLACK RIVER HARBOR CAMPGROUND
16.8 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
The Escanaba River and other small waterfalls in the area are worth exploring. The town of Gladstone offers additional amenities and attractions.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Cities near Deer Creek Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
Other waterfalls named Deer Creek Falls
3 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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