Lower Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Loop
About Lower Falls
Lower Falls is part of the Tahquamenon Falls State Park in Michigan and is one of two main waterfalls on the Tahquamenon River. The Lower Falls consists of a series of smaller cascades that flow around an island, creating a picturesque and serene setting.
The Setting
Lower Falls sits at 666 feet along the East Branch Salmon Trout River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Eighty Foot Falls (80 ft) lies 3.2 miles to the northwest.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Lower Falls is well-maintained and mostly flat, making it accessible for most visitors. It offers scenic views of the Tahquamenon River and the surrounding forest. There is also an option to rent a rowboat to explore the island near the falls.
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 Lower Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $10.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Lower Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is during the spring and fall when the water flow is at its peak, and the surrounding scenery is most vibrant. Winter visits offer a unique experience with frozen cascades.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 50°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Stay on designated trails and viewing platforms to avoid slippery rocks and strong currents. Be cautious of wildlife and carry bug spray to protect against mosquitoes and ticks.
Current Water Conditions
13 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 20 years of record
1.56 ft
Water depth at gauge
50°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
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. Water temperature is very cold at 50 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes. Mineral content is typical.
Water Quality
Conductance
Dissolved minerals in the water
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge EAST BRANCH SALMON TROUT RIVER NEAR DODGE CITY, MI (5 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
13 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
12 cfs
4/10Sun
Barely Flowing
13 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
15 cfs
5/10Tue
Low
16 cfs
4/10Wed
Low
15 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
14 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to mid 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 Big Bay 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.
1-meter lidar measures about 96 feet of descent through Lower Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 665 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 119 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 35 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing northwest, the falls stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 665 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 96 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
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
Lower Falls is located within Tahquamenon Falls State Park in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The falls are accessible via M-123, and the park is well-signposted. Visitors can park near the Lower Falls and follow a short trail to view the cascades.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Ample parking is available near the Lower Falls area, with designated lots for visitors.
Elevation
666 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.815278° N, -87.803611° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Arrive early during peak seasons to secure parking and avoid crowds. Bring bug spray during the summer months, as mosquitoes can be prevalent. Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to explore the trails or the island.
Where to Stay
Lakefront Lookout! Private Sand Beach on Superior
Private Beach! Year-Round Lake Superior Retreat
Private Sandy Beach: Lake Superior Group Retreat
Sunroom, Deck and Grills Marquette Cottage!
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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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
The Upper Falls, located a few miles upstream, is another must-see attraction in Tahquamenon Falls State Park. The park also offers hiking trails, a brewery, and picnic areas.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and occasionally black bears. Visitors may also spot fish in the river.
Cities near Lower Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
Other waterfalls named Lower Falls
19 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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