Explorers Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Explorers Falls
Explorers Falls is a tucked-away cascade inside Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, offering a quiet, scenic stop for hikers exploring the park. The site sits on land owned by SDNR and is managed as a state park (Designation: SP) by SPR, so visitors should follow park rules and respect seasonal closures or posted signage. Because it sees fewer visitors than some of the park’s better-known attractions, the falls are a nice choice for photographers and anyone seeking a peaceful forest setting. Access to the falls is an achievable outing for most day hikers: the established approach is a 2.4-mile out-and-back with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. Trail conditions and water flow at the falls vary by season and recent weather, so plan accordingly and pack basic trail essentials.
The Setting
Explorers Falls sits at 840 feet within Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, fed by the Presque Isle River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail data from the managing land unit indicates a 2.4-mile out-and-back approach with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. No USFS trail name/number or formal surface/grade/class data was provided by the managing agency in the enrichment record. Hikers should expect a maintained park route leading to viewpoints of the falls; check current park notices before you go, wear sturdy footwear for uneven footing, and carry water and weather-appropriate layers.
What to Expect
Expect a peaceful and scenic environment with the sound of cascading water. The area may be less crowded compared to more popular waterfalls in Michigan.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not documented. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Explorers Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Explorers Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as water flow is likely to be at its peak.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Trail conditions may vary, and the area may be slippery near the waterfall. Visitors should exercise caution and avoid visiting during severe weather.
Current Water Conditions
35 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 3 years of record
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge PRESQUE ISLE RIVER NEAR CONNORVILLE, MI (8 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
36 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
35 cfs
4/10Tue
Barely Flowing
36 cfs
3/10Wed
Low
38 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
38 cfs
4/10Fri
Barely Flowing
35 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
34 cfs
5/10Best window: Fri — barely flowing flow, mostly 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 White Pine 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 72 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 851 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 32 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 52 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
- 851 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 72 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
The exact location of Explorers Falls is not widely documented. Visitors are advised to consult local resources or hiking guides for directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited parking options and check with local authorities or trail resources before visiting.
Elevation
840 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.732724° N, -89.885723° W
Land Management
Managed by SPR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a map or GPS device as the location may not be well-marked. Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for uneven terrain.
Where to Stay
Snow Otter Haus - 2
Snow Otter Haus - 1
Quality Inn Ironwood
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
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
BLACK RIVER HARBOR CAMPGROUND
8.9 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
Other natural attractions in Michigan, such as state parks and hiking trails, may be nearby.
Wildlife
The area may feature common Michigan wildlife such as deer, birds, and small mammals.
Cities near Explorers Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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