Interstate Falls
Michigan • 18 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.3 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Interstate Falls
Interstate Falls, also known locally as Peterson Falls, drops roughly 18 feet where the Montreal River forms the border between Michigan and Wisconsin. Tucked into a wooded stretch along the river, the falls offer a compact, photogenic cascade framed by mossy rocks and leafy forest — an easy-to-enjoy stop for photographers, day hikers, and anyone looking for a classic Great Lakes region waterfall. The falls are reached by a short hike that rewards visitors with a close-up viewing area at the lip of the cascade. Though modest in height, Interstate Falls’ setting and easy access make it a popular outing for families and nature lovers seeking a quick hike with scenic payoff.
The Setting
Interstate Falls sits at 1,358 feet along the Black River, in the foothills of Michigan. The falls drop 18 feet.
Height: 18 feet
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Interstate Falls is a 2.4-mile out-and-back route with about 350 feet of elevation gain and is typically rated moderate. Expect wooded footpaths with some short, steeper pitches rather than a completely flat walk; the route is well-marked and leads directly to a designated viewing area at the 18-foot waterfall. Specific USFS trail number, surface type, grade, and technical class data were not provided for this route.
What to Expect
The falls drop a gentle 18 feet. 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 Interstate Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Interstate Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for viewing the waterfall at its fullest flow, but fall offers stunning foliage, and winter provides a unique opportunity to see the waterfall partially frozen.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the waterfall as rocks can be slippery. Stay on designated trails and viewing areas to avoid accidents.
Current Water Conditions
15 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 53 years of record
1.89 ft
Water depth at gauge
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.
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 BLACK RIVER NEAR BESSEMER, MI (10 km away).
Today
Moderate
16 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Low
14 cfs
5/10Tue
Moderate
14 cfs
5/10Wed
Moderate
15 cfs
5/10Thu
Moderate
22 cfs
5/10Fri
Low
19 cfs
6/10Sat
Moderate
20 cfs
5/10Best window: Fri — low flow, mostly sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to late 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 Hurley 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 29 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The falls are listed at 18 feet; the extra comes from the ravine that continues below the base. The ground at the falls is roughly 1,354 feet above sea level.
Both above and below, the ground is gentle; the falls are the one abrupt step in an otherwise easy-going creek. Facing north, 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
- 1,354 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 29 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
Interstate Falls is located near the town of Hurley, Wisconsin, just across the border from Michigan. It is accessible via a short drive from US Highway 2. Look for signage directing visitors to the Interstate Falls parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small, free parking lot available near the trailhead, which can accommodate several vehicles.
Elevation
1,358 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.474722° N, -90.199167° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy or slippery, especially after rain. Bring insect repellent during the summer months to protect against mosquitoes. Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Where to Stay
Quality Inn Ironwood
Snow Otter Haus - 2
Days Inn by Wyndham Hurley
AmericInn by Wyndham Ironwood
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 PAVILION
15.3 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Planning a visit to the Black River Harbor Pavilion? Watch for Alerts at the top of the page for any Alerts regarding this facility. The Black River Harbor Pavilion is located within the Black Harbor Recreation Area on Lake Superior in Michigans Upper Peninsula. The historic stone and wood pavilion was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Recreation Lake Superior offers great opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The North Country National Scenic Trail
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the town of Hurley, Wisconsin, and other waterfalls along the Montreal River, such as Saxon Falls and Superior Falls.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the trail.
Cities near Interstate Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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