LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Ford Dam Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Drive Up
Trail Length
0.1 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
50 ft
About Ford Dam Falls
Ford Dam Falls is a man-made cascade on the Huron River where the Ford Lake Dam’s spillway channels water over a stepped concrete face, creating a dramatic, easy-to-enjoy waterfall. The falls are a product of the dam that created Ford Lake, so the setting combines engineered structure with the visual appeal of moving water—great for quick stops, photography, and watching seasonal flow changes. Access is straightforward: visitors typically view the falls from nearby parking, park areas, and roadside observation points rather than a long backcountry hike. A very short 0.1-mile approach (out-and-back) with about 50 feet of elevation change serves as the primary pedestrian access, making the site suitable for a brief, family-friendly outing or a photo break on a longer drive along the Huron River corridor.
The Setting
Ford Dam Falls sits at 1,033 feet along the Menominee River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
No hiking required. Ford Dam Falls is accessible by vehicle with a roadside viewing area.
Trail Description
Short, out-and-back approach: approximately 0.1 miles round-trip with roughly 50 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty is listed as "drive_up," meaning the falls are primarily reached from nearby parking or roadside viewing areas with only a brief walk required. There is no designated USFS trail number associated with this site; surface and grade vary by access point, so expect a very short walk from parking or an observation area rather than a developed hiking trail.
What to Expect
Expect to see a man-made waterfall created by the Ford Dam's spillway. The falls are most impressive during periods of high water flow, such as after heavy rains or during spring snowmelt.
Accessibility
This waterfall is viewable from a vehicle-accessible area. No hiking is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Ford Dam Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Ford Dam Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are typically the best times to visit, as water flow is higher during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Stay away from the water's edge and follow all posted safety signs. The currents near the dam can be strong and dangerous.
Current Water Conditions
947 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 38 years of record
4.84 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 MENOMINEE RIVER NEAR VULCAN, MI (21 km away).
Today
Low
947 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Low
837 cfs
6/10Tue
Low
860 cfs
6/10Wed
Low
929 cfs
4/10Thu
Moderate
937 cfs
5/10Fri
Moderate
944 cfs
5/10Sat
Moderate
957 cfs
5/10Best window: Tomorrow — low flow, mostly sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to early 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 Kingsford 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.
1-meter lidar measures about 60 feet of descent through Ford Dam Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 1,037 feet above sea level.
Most of the action is upstream: the ground drops about 80 feet in the 500 feet above the pin and flattens beneath the falls. Facing southwest, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,037 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 60 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Ford Dam Falls is located near Ypsilanti, Michigan, along the Huron River. It can be accessed via local roads leading to Ford Lake Park or nearby public areas.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at Ford Lake Park or nearby public parking areas. Availability may vary depending on the season and park usage.
Elevation
1,033 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.806389° N, -88.120278° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a camera to capture the unique view of the cascading water. Visit during the spring or after rainfall for the most dramatic water flow. Be cautious near the water and follow all posted safety signs.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
For this easy 0.1 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
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.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
OR Sombriolet Sun Hat
UPF 50+ sun protection with vents so your head doesn't cook on exposed trail sections.
Where to Stay
Pine Mountain Resort
Mountain Host Motor Inn
Comfort Inn Iron Mountain North
Baymont by Wyndham Iron Mountain
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
LAURA LAKE CAMPGROUND
19.9 miles away · 41 sites
Overview With two beautiful clear water lakes, undeveloped shoreline, and restricted motor use, Laura Lake Campground provides an exceptional camping opportunity. Recreation The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest has an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities. Those most enjoyed at Laura Lake are fishing, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and hiking the trail that goes around the lake. The area also provides a bike trail that runs along the old Lake 9 railroad grade. Facilities Laura Lake Camp
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Ford Lake Park, Riverside Park, and the city of Ypsilanti, which offers historical sites and local dining options.
Wildlife
The area around Ford Lake and the Huron River is home to various bird species, fish, and other wildlife. Visitors may spot ducks, geese, and herons.
Cities near Ford Dam Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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