Little Quinnesec Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (1)
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.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Sand Portage Falls (5 ft) lies 1.5 miles to the southeast.
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 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
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Menominee River, 0.6 miles away, not on Little Quinnesec Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
1,080 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 34 years of record
5.09 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
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge MENOMINEE RIVER AT NIAGARA, WI (1 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
989 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
1094 cfs
4/10Fri
Low
1033 cfs
4/10Sat
Barely Flowing
953 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
898 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
910 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
928 cfs
5/10Best window: Sat — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
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.
Is Little Quinnesec Falls Frozen?
Updated about 5 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately big river, rarely freezes solid
Little Quinnesec Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 60°F to 32°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 1290 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.
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.
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.
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 MapsParking
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.
Where to Stay
Mountain Host Motor Inn
Pine Mountain Resort
Comfort Inn Iron Mountain North
Baymont by Wyndham Iron Mountain
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
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
Nearby Waterfalls
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