Little Trap Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (2)
About Little Trap Falls
Little Trap Falls is a small, picturesque cascade on the Trap Rock River tucked into Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The falls drop through a rocky ledge into a quiet, forested gorge, offering a peaceful reward for hikers and photographers looking for a less-crowded waterfall outing. The area is served by the U.S. Forest Service’s Ontonagon Ranger District, which manages recreation and access in this part of the region. Access to the falls is on a moderately challenging out-and-back hike: plan for a 2.4-mile round trip with about 350 feet of elevation gain that winds through shaded forest. While the immediate area feels remote, camping and other services are available from the Ontonagon Ranger District area roughly 26 km away, so pack accordingly and expect a tranquil, natural setting rather than developed facilities at the falls itself.
The Setting
Little Trap Falls sits at 1,240 feet along the West Branch Ontonagon River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
This route is a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail with approximately 350 feet of cumulative elevation gain and is rated moderate. USFS trail surface, grade, and technical class are not documented for this route; hikers should expect natural forest trail conditions (roots, rocks, and uneven footing) and prepare with sturdy footwear and basic navigation. There is no official USFS trail number or name listed for public reference, so follow visible tread and stream crossings toward the Trap Rock River to reach the falls.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful, natural setting with a small waterfall surrounded by forest. The area may be less developed, so amenities like restrooms or picnic areas are unlikely.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The area may not be suitable for visitors with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Little Trap Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Little Trap Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as water flow is typically higher due to snowmelt and rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail may be uneven or slippery, especially after rain. Be cautious of ticks and bring bug spray. Cell phone service may be limited in the area.
Current Water Conditions
32 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 84 years of record
1.19 ft
Water depth at gauge
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 WEST BRANCH ONTONAGON RIVER NEAR BERGLAND, MI (12 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
32 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
32 cfs
5/10Sun
Low
35 cfs
4/10Mon
Barely Flowing
34 cfs
5/10Tue
Low
35 cfs
4/10Wed
Low
36 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
36 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
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 White Pine 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 bare-earth surface loses about 52 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 1,238 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 39 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 66 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing northwest, the falls glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,238 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 52 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Little Trap Falls is located near the Trap Rock River in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Access may require navigating rural roads, so a map or GPS is recommended.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but visitors may need to park along nearby roads or at informal pull-offs.
Elevation
1,240 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.690503° N, -89.555709° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a map or GPS as the location may be difficult to find. Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain could be uneven or muddy, especially after rain.
Where to Stay
Bergland Bay Bungalow
Scott's Superior Inn and Cabins
Two Rivers Motel and Cabins of Kenton, MI
Pet-Friendly Michigan Getaway with Porch and Kayaks!
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.
Nearby Campground
Ontonagon Ranger District
16.3 miles away · 0 sites
Ontonagon Ranger District is on the shores of Lake Superior, largest of the Great Lakes, and the mouth of the Ontonagon River. There are numerous outdoor recreational opportunities. Hunting, fishing, swimming, hiking, boating, and ATV riding are available in the summer and fall months. In the winter downhill, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing are available.
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
The Upper Peninsula offers many other natural attractions, including larger waterfalls like Tahquamenon Falls and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Cities near Little Trap Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
Writing about Little Trap Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.