Laughing Whitefish Falls
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
50 ft
About Laughing Whitefish Falls
Laughing Whitefish Falls is one of Michigan’s most photogenic cascades — a broad, fan-shaped waterfall dropping about 100 feet along the Laughing Whitefish River. The falls sit in the southern portion of Laughing Whitefish Falls State Park, a 960-acre state recreation area that protects river valleys in Onota and Rock River townships in far western Alger County. You’ll find the falls roughly eight miles (13 km) south of Lake Superior and about three miles north of M‑94, making it an easy nature detour when touring Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The site is managed as Laughing Whitefish Falls State Park (landowner: SDNR; manager: SPR) and offers a compact, visitor-friendly setting for photographers, families and casual hikers. A short, forested path leads to a wooden staircase and a viewing platform near the base of the falls, where the cascading fan of water is framed by mossy rock and trees. The park’s sheltered canyon and accessible viewpoints make this a rewarding stop for a quick outing or a mellow half-day adventure.
Height: 100 feet
Trail Description
This is an easy, out-and-back trail of about 0.4 miles round trip with roughly 50 feet of elevation gain. The path is well-maintained through mixed northern hardwood forest, consisting mainly of a compacted dirt tread with tree roots in places; a short wooden staircase leads down to a viewing platform close to the falls. The grade is gentle, the route is short and family-friendly, and the main attraction — the 100-foot fan-shaped cascade — is reachable without technical terrain or scrambling.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a serene hike through a wooded area leading to a stunning waterfall. The viewing platform provides excellent photo opportunities, and the falls are particularly impressive during spring when water flow is at its peak.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain and stairs leading to the viewing platform.
Seasonal Closures
The park is open year-round, but access may be limited in winter due to snow and ice.
Safety Information
The wooden stairs and viewing platform may be slippery when wet or icy. Stay on marked trails and avoid climbing on rocks near the falls.
Location & Access
Getting There
Laughing Whitefish Falls is located in the Laughing Whitefish Falls State Park, approximately 30 miles southeast of Marquette, Michigan. The trailhead is accessible via County Road 327.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, which is free to use.
Elevation
974 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.383831° N, -87.068478° W
Land Management
Managed by SPR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy after rain. Visit in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photography. Be cautious on the wooden stairs, especially in wet or icy conditions.
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For this easy 0.4 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
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.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
Where to Stay
Find hotels, lodges, and B&Bs near the trailhead
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
BAY FURNACE CAMPGROUND
17.6 miles away · 49 sites
Overview Bay Furnace Campground is located on the south shores of Lake Superior, near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Favorite to many, the campground is centered to various waterfalls, as well as other sightseeing attractions, including boat tours and visits to Grand Island.Recreation Fishing in Lake Superior is best by boat. There is no access to the lake at Bay Furnace, but there is a boat ramp approximately 10 miles west, at AuTrain, and in Munising. Anglers can enjoy a variety of lake tro
Book on Recreation.govFrequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Laughing Whitefish Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $9.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Laughing Whitefish Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
Best Seasons to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the water flow is strongest during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a unique view of the frozen waterfall.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Munising Falls, and Marquette's Presque Isle Park.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious of ticks in the warmer months.
