Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Ely Falls
Ely Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, near the town of Ishpeming. It is part of the Ely Creek and features a serene, wooded setting. The waterfall is relatively small but charming, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
The Setting
Ely Falls sits at 1,424 feet along the Schweitzer Creek, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Ely Falls is short and relatively flat, making it suitable for most visitors. It winds through a wooded area and follows Ely Creek, leading directly to the waterfall. The path may be muddy or slippery after rain or during spring thaw.
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 Ely Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Ely Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring is the best time to visit Ely Falls, as the snowmelt increases the water flow. Summer and fall are also good options for pleasant weather and colorful foliage.
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 snowmelt when the trail may become hazardous. Always stay on marked paths to protect the environment and ensure safety.
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge SCHWEITZER CREEK NEAR PALMER, MI (6 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
6 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
6 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
6 cfs
5/10Tue
Low
7 cfs
4/10Wed
Low
7 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
7 cfs
4/10Fri
Low
7 cfs
4/10Best window: Tomorrow — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to mid 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 Ishpeming 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 56 feet of drop through Ely Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 1,428 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 52 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 44 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing northeast, 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
- 1,428 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 56 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- 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 northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Ely Falls is located near Ishpeming, Michigan, and can be accessed via local roads. The exact location may require some navigation, as it is not prominently marked. Visitors often recommend using GPS coordinates or local maps to find the site.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is limited and may involve roadside parking near the trailhead. Visitors should ensure they are not blocking any private property or driveways.
Elevation
1,424 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.438889° N, -87.688889° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes, as the trail can be muddy or uneven. Bring bug spray during the summer months, as mosquitoes can be prevalent. Consider visiting in the spring when water flow is typically higher.
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
Nearby attractions include the Cliffs Shaft Mine Museum in Ishpeming and other waterfalls in the Upper Peninsula, such as Dead River Falls.
Wildlife
The area is home to various birds, deer, and other small woodland animals. Visitors may also encounter insects such as mosquitoes and ticks.
Cities near Ely Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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