Little Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Little Falls
Little Falls is a small, scenic waterfall tucked into the woods of northern Wisconsin, just a short drive from the towns of Hawkins, Kennan, and Catawba. The falls are prized for their peaceful, intimate setting — a quiet spot that’s popular with local hikers and photographers seeking a low-key nature escape. The approach is a pleasant woodland walk rather than a strenuous scramble, making it a great option for a half-day outing. If you’re planning an overnight trip, the nearest developed camping is at the Medford - Park Falls District campground, approximately 37.97 km away. Conditions and access can change with the seasons, so check local resources before you go and bring appropriate footwear and water for a comfortable visit.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail features some steady climbs and may involve uneven footing in places; hikers should be prepared for a typical woodland hiking surface and variable conditions. There is no USFS trail number provided in the available data, so check local trailhead signage or park information for current conditions and any route markings before heading out.
What to Expect
Expect a serene natural setting with a small waterfall surrounded by forested areas. The flow of the waterfall may vary depending on recent rainfall and seasonal conditions.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The terrain may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Little Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Little Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as water flow is typically higher due to snowmelt and rainfall. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while summer provides warmer weather for exploration.
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. Cell service may be limited, so inform someone of your plans before visiting. Bring adequate supplies and be prepared for rural conditions.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on South Fork Flambeau River, 7.2 miles away, not on Little Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
191 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
4.94 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 SOUTH FORK FLAMBEAU RIVER NEAR PHILLIPS, WI (12 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
210 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
301 cfs
2/10Fri
Barely Flowing
246 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
237 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
254 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
274 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
192 cfs
5/10Best window: Fri — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
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 Hawkins hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Little Falls Frozen?
Updated about 5 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
Little Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 56°F to 30°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 194 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in Wisconsin.
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 shows the creek losing roughly 27 feet through Little Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 1,314 feet.
The ground changes about 48 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 7 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face west and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,314 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 27 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- West
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading west).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Little Falls is located approximately 7.4 miles from Hawkins, 11.9 miles from Kennan, and 13.9 miles from Catawba. The coordinates for the waterfall are 45.6433, -90.7385. Access may require navigating rural roads, so a GPS or map is recommended.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but visitors may find small roadside pull-offs or nearby parking areas. Confirm parking options before visiting.
Elevation
1,302 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.643298° N, -90.738483° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring sturdy footwear and be prepared for rural conditions. Check weather forecasts and trail conditions before visiting. Cell service may be limited in the area.
Where to Stay
The Bear Den
Timber Inn
Super 8 by Wyndham Phillips
AmeriVu Inn
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
Medford - Park Falls District
23.6 miles away · 0 sites
The Medford - Park Falls Ranger District offers a variety of different activities to those seeking recreational opportunities. With many campgrounds, lakes, rivers, and hiking trails to choose from.
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby towns such as Hawkins, Kennan, and Catawba offer small-town charm and local amenities.
Wildlife
The area may host a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious and respectful of the natural habitat.
Cities near Little Falls
Other waterfalls named Little Falls
27 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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