LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Ducknest Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
100 ft
About Ducknest Falls
Tucked into the forested landscape of the Menominee Reservation, Ducknest Falls is a small, peaceful cascade that rewards hikers with a quiet, scenic escape. Managed by tribal authorities (land owner: DESG; land unit: Menominee Reservation; designation: TRIB; manager: TRIB), the falls are a lesser-known spot where dappled light and mossy rock make for excellent nature photography and a contemplative stop on a short outing. The setting feels intimate rather than dramatic—perfect for visitors looking to get off the beaten path and enjoy a calm stretch of woodland stream. The approach is welcoming for a wide range of hikers: the route is short and easy, passing through mature forest before opening onto the falls. Because Ducknest Falls sits on tribal land, visitors should be respectful of site rules and the stewardship of the Menominee community. Expect a low-key visit with plenty of birdlife, fern-lined banks, and the gentle sound of falling water.
The Setting
Ducknest Falls sits at 961 feet within Menominee Reservation, fed by the Wolf River, in the foothills of Wisconsin.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 1.0-mile out-and-back trail gains 100 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Ducknest Falls is an easy 1.0-mile out-and-back with approximately 100 feet of elevation gain, making it accessible for most visitors and suitable for families or a quick nature break. The route is relatively flat overall and winds through wooded terrain before reaching the waterfall; difficulty is listed as easy and the trail type is out-and-back. No specific USFS trail surface, grade, or class data is provided in the available information.
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 Ducknest Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Ducknest Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the waterfall flow is typically stronger due to snowmelt and rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall. Avoid visiting during heavy rain or icy conditions as the trail may become hazardous.
Current Water Conditions
254 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 59 years of record
7.66 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
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 WOLF RIVER AT LANGLADE, WI (17 km away).
Today
Low
254 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
254 cfs
5/10Tue
Low
254 cfs
5/10Wed
Low
274 cfs
4/10Thu
Moderate
285 cfs
5/10Fri
Low
264 cfs
6/10Sat
Low
274 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — low flow, partly sunny (trip score 6/10).
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 Middle Village 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 19 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 961 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 22 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 2 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing southeast, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 961 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 19 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
Ducknest Falls is located near the town of Cable, Wisconsin. Access may require navigating rural roads, so a GPS or map is recommended.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may consist of roadside pull-offs or small gravel lots near the trailhead.
Elevation
961 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.047200° N, -88.659272° W
Land Management
Managed by TRIB
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be uneven in places. Bring insect repellent during warmer months to protect against mosquitoes.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
This easy 1.0 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
OR Sombriolet Sun Hat
UPF 50+ sun protection with vents so your head doesn't cook on exposed trail sections.
Where to Stay
Super 8 by Wyndham Antigo
Sleep Inn Antigo
Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites Antigo by IHG
Spur of the Moment Ranch
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
BOULDER LAKE
6.4 miles away · 99 sites
Overview Boulder Lake Campground is located on the shores of Boulder Lake in northern Wisconsin. It is the forest's largest campground but campsites fill up fast. The campground is home to individual and group sites, making it an ideal location to relax with friends or family. Recreational opportunities abound. Recreation Boulder Lake provides ample opportunities for power boating, water skiing, fishing and swimming. Anglers might catch walleye, northern pike, bass or panfish. Ice fishing is also
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
The Cable Natural History Museum and other hiking trails in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest are nearby.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of birds, deer, and other small woodland animals.
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