LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Little Garlic Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
4.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Little Garlic Falls
Little Garlic Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan, near Marquette. It is a serene and relatively secluded spot, surrounded by lush forest and accessible via a hiking trail. The falls are part of the Little Garlic River, which flows through the area.
The Setting
Little Garlic Falls sits at 810 feet along the Dead River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Little Garlic Falls is a moderately challenging out-and-back hike that follows the Little Garlic River. The path is well-shaded and features a mix of flat sections and gentle inclines. The trail may be muddy or slippery after rain or during spring thaw.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Little Garlic Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Little Garlic Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the waterfall is typically more robust due to snowmelt and rainfall. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a unique opportunity to see the falls frozen.
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 falls and along the trail, especially after rain. Carry a map or GPS device, as cell service may be limited in the area.
Current Water Conditions
134 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 10 years of record
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average 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 DEAD RIVER AT MARQUETTE, MI (17 km away).
Today
Moderate
135 cfs
8/10Tomorrow
Moderate
156 cfs
6/10Sun
Moderate
160 cfs
8/10Mon
Moderate
191 cfs
8/10Tue
Moderate
164 cfs
6/10Wed
Moderate
191 cfs
6/10Thu
Moderate
201 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — moderate flow, sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from early April to mid June, peaking in May.
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 Negaunee 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.
Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 68 feet of drop through Little Garlic Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 816 feet above sea level.
Most of the action is upstream: the ground drops about 101 feet in the 500 feet above the pin and flattens beneath the falls. Facing east, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 816 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 68 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- East
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading east).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Little Garlic Falls is located off County Road 550, north of Marquette, Michigan. Visitors typically park near the Little Garlic River trailhead and hike to the falls.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Little Garlic River trailhead, but it may be limited. Arrive early during peak seasons to secure a spot.
Elevation
810 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.667706° N, -87.578746° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as the trail can be uneven or muddy. Bring bug spray during the summer months to protect against mosquitoes. Check weather conditions before your visit, as the trail may be more challenging after heavy rain.
Where to Stay
Comfort Suites Marquette
Days Inn by Wyndham Marquette
Holiday Inn Marquette by IHG
My Place Hotel-Marquette, MI
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.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Presque Isle Park, Sugarloaf Mountain, and the city of Marquette are all nearby and worth exploring.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious of black bears, which may be present in the region.
Nearby Waterfalls
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