Little Quinnesec Falls waterfall
Live Conditions · 778 ft³/s · Lower than usual

Little Quinnesec Falls

Wisconsin

By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026

LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (1)
1.
IvanTortuga CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons

About Little Quinnesec Falls

Little Quinnesec Falls is a small but scenic waterfall located on the Menominee River, which forms the border between Wisconsin and Michigan. The falls are known for their picturesque setting and are a popular spot for fishing and photography.

The Setting

Little Quinnesec Falls sits at 928 feet along the Menominee River, in the foothills of Wisconsin.

Trail & Hike Details

Trail Description

There is limited information about a formal trail leading to Little Quinnesec Falls. The area may be accessible via short paths or roads near the river, but details about trail conditions are not well-documented.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect a peaceful and scenic view of the Menominee River and the falls. The area is often quiet and may be a good spot for fishing or relaxing by the water. However, the presence of a dam nearby means that water levels and flow may vary.

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not well-documented. The area may not be suitable for visitors with mobility challenges due to uneven terrain.

Frequently Asked Questions

🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Little Quinnesec Falls?

❌ Dogs are not allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Little Quinnesec Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as water flow is typically higher during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, making it another great time to visit.

Seasonal Access

The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.

Safety Information

Visitors should exercise caution near the water, as the proximity to the dam can create strong currents or sudden changes in water levels. Slippery rocks and uneven ground may also pose hazards.

Current Water Conditions

Updated about 3 hours ago Low

778 ft³/s

Current discharge — how much water is flowing

Lower than usual for this time of year

Based on 33 years of record

4.50 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

USGS 04065106
0.6 miles from waterfall
Drainage: 2,470 sq mi
Altitude: 867 ft

7-Day Flow Outlook

Based on the USGS gauge MENOMINEE RIVER AT NIAGARA, WI (1 km away).

High confidence
Low right now
778 cfs
→ Holding steady
13131321251721TodayTomorrowTueWedThuFriSat

Today

Low

778 cfs

5/10

Tomorrow

Low

651 cfs

5/10

Tue

Low

709 cfs

5/10

Wed

Low

743 cfs

4/10

Thu

Moderate

765 cfs

5/10

Fri

Low

666 cfs

6/10

Sat

Low

777 cfs

4/10

Best window: Fri — low flow, mostly sunny (trip score 6/10).

Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to early 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 Niagara 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 ground through the falls loses about 106 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 937 feet above sea level.

The ground changes about 42 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 35 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southwest and sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.

Aerial photo of the same ground around Little Quinnesec Falls near Niagara, Wisconsin, for comparison with the lidar view LiDAR bare-earth terrain around Little Quinnesec Falls near Niagara, Wisconsin, showing about 106 feet of drop, a steep tiered drop, facing southwest
Aerial LiDAR bare earth

Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.

Ground elevation
937 feet
Measured by 1-meter lidar
Drop at the falls
About 106 feet
Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Faces
Southwest
Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
Ground profile through the falls

A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).

Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.

Location & Access

Getting There

Little Quinnesec Falls is located near Niagara, Wisconsin, along the Menominee River. Access is typically via local roads, and the falls are near a dam, so visitors should follow signs for the area.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

Parking is available near the falls, but the exact details about the parking area are unclear. Visitors should look for designated spots near the river or dam.

Elevation

928 feet above sea level

Coordinates

45.773568° N, -87.989291° W

Visitor Tips & Gear

Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain near the river may be uneven or slippery. Check water levels before visiting, as they can fluctuate due to the dam. Bring bug spray during warmer months.

Additional Information

Nearby Attractions

Niagara, Wisconsin offers other outdoor activities, including hiking and fishing. The Menominee River is a popular spot for kayaking and canoeing.

Wildlife

The area around the falls may feature local wildlife such as birds, deer, and fish. Visitors should be cautious of ticks and other insects during warmer months.

Cities near Little Quinnesec Falls

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