LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Froling Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout Froling Falls
Froling Falls is a tucked-away Michigan cascade set amid forest, offering a quiet, picturesque stop for hikers and photographers. The waterfall is reached by a relatively short hike—about 2.4 miles out-and-back—with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, making it a satisfying option for anyone looking for a moderate, half-day outing in nature. Trail information for Froling Falls is sparse, so the experience feels pleasantly low-key. Hikers should expect some uneven or unmarked stretches of path and come prepared with sturdy footwear and basic navigation; there are no developed campgrounds within 10 km (the nearest established campground, Au Train Lake Campground, is about 37.9 km away), so most visitors treat this as a day hike. The solitude and the steady rush of water make Froling Falls a rewarding destination for those who enjoy quieter forest trails.
The Setting
Froling Falls sits at 948 feet along the Middle Branch Escanaba River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail length: 2.4 miles (out-and-back). Elevation gain: approximately 350 feet. Difficulty: Moderate. Trail type: Out-and-back. USFS trail name/number: not documented. Surface/grade/class: Not documented by USFS; trail details are limited. Visitors should expect uneven or unmarked natural tread in places rather than a developed, signed trail. Prepare for moderately steady climbing on the approach and bring sturdy footwear, a map or GPS, and basic route-finding readiness.
What to Expect
Expect a peaceful and natural setting with a waterfall surrounded by forest. The area may be less crowded due to its lesser-known status.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Froling Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Froling Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the waterfall may have higher flow 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. The trail may be unmarked or uneven, so proceed carefully.
Current Water Conditions
80 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 58 years of record
1.52 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 MIDDLE BRANCH ESCANABA RIVER NR PRINCETON, MI (14 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
80 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
82 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
81 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
89 cfs
3/10Thu
Low
89 cfs
4/10Fri
Barely Flowing
84 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
94 cfs
3/10Best window: Tomorrow — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to late 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 K. I. Sawyer 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 118 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 946 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 120 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 51 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southeast and catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 946 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 118 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
The exact location of Froling 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 or roadside parking options.
Elevation
948 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.360497° N, -87.329863° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a map or GPS device as the trail may not be well-marked. Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for varying trail conditions.
Where to Stay
Days Inn by Wyndham Marquette
Comfort Suites Marquette
My Place Hotel-Marquette, MI
Holiday Inn Marquette by IHG
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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Nearby Campground
Au Train Lake Campground
23.5 miles away · 34 sites
Overview Located at the south end of AuTrain Lake, this campground is favored by anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. The quiet setting is great for family trips, and visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational opportunities year-round, all less than a day's drive from major urban areas of Michigan and Wisconsin.Recreation The large size of the lake provides miles of prime water skiing, boating, swimming and fishing. Anglers can expect a healthy catch of bass and a variety of perch. Canoeing is also
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other natural attractions in Michigan, such as Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, may be worth exploring.
Wildlife
The area may feature typical Michigan wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals.
Cities near Froling Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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