Eighty Foot Falls
Michigan • 80 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainPhoto Credits (1)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Eighty Foot Falls
Eighty Foot Falls is a scenic, roughly 80-foot waterfall in Michigan set on private land within the Huron Mountain Club (land unit: Huron Mountain Club; designation: PCON). The setting is quietly wooded and dramatic at the drop, making it a rewarding destination for hikers who manage to arrange access. The site is privately owned and managed (owner/manager listed as PVT), so visitors should verify permission or guided access before planning a visit and always respect property rules. The approach is an inviting, moderate hike: a 2.4-mile out-and-back route that climbs about 350 feet. The path threads through forested terrain and opens to scenic viewpoints near the falls, offering a peaceful, backcountry feel. Because the tread is mostly natural and can be uneven or muddy after rain, sturdy footwear and basic trail preparedness are recommended.
The Setting
Eighty Foot Falls sits at 722 feet within Huron Mountain Club, fed by the East Branch Salmon Trout River, in the foothills of Michigan. The falls drop 80 feet.
Height: 80 feet
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail type: out-and-back, length: 2.4 miles, elevation gain: ~350 ft, difficulty: moderate. The route follows mostly natural forest tread with moderate elevation changes; expect uneven ground, exposed roots and rocks, and sections that can become muddy in wet weather. The hike is non-technical but involves steady climbing in places—sturdy shoes, water, and caution on slick sections are advised. Note: the falls and trail are on privately managed land (Huron Mountain Club; manager listed as PVT); confirm access before heading out.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 80 feet. 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 Eighty Foot Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $10.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Eighty Foot Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for viewing the waterfall at its fullest flow. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a unique frozen waterfall experience.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 50°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Visitors should exercise caution near the waterfall, as rocks can be slippery. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and carry a map or GPS device.
Current Water Conditions
13 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 20 years of record
1.56 ft
Water depth at gauge
50°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
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. Water temperature is very cold at 50 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes. Mineral content is typical.
Water Quality
Conductance
Dissolved minerals in the water
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge EAST BRANCH SALMON TROUT RIVER NEAR DODGE CITY, MI (8 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
13 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
12 cfs
4/10Sun
Barely Flowing
13 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
15 cfs
5/10Tue
Low
16 cfs
4/10Wed
Low
15 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
14 cfs
4/10Best 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 Big Bay 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 ground through the falls loses about 176 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The falls are listed at 80 feet; the extra comes from the ravine that continues below the base. The ground at the falls is roughly 729 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 81 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 104 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face north and 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
- 729 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 176 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- 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 north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Eighty Foot Falls is located near Munising, Michigan, within the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Access typically involves driving to a nearby trailhead and hiking to the falls.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at designated trailheads within the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Availability may vary during peak seasons.
Elevation
722 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.854167° N, -87.841667° W
Land Management
Managed by PVT
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early during peak seasons to secure parking. Bring water, snacks, and appropriate footwear. Bug spray is recommended during warmer months. Check weather conditions before visiting, as trails may be slippery or muddy.
Where to Stay
Lakefront Lookout! Private Sand Beach on Superior
Private Beach! Year-Round Lake Superior Retreat
Private Sandy Beach: Lake Superior Group Retreat
Sunroom, Deck and Grills Marquette Cottage!
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
Other attractions in the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore include Miners Castle, Chapel Falls, and the scenic lakeshore cliffs.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Nearby Waterfalls
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