LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Maple Creek Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Maple Creek Falls
Maple Creek Falls is a small, picturesque cascade tucked into a shady stretch of Michigan woodland along Maple Creek. The falls are framed by mossy rock and verdant forest, making them a peaceful destination for photographers, families, and anyone looking for a short nature escape. The setting feels tucked-away but accessible, with the creek’s steady flow providing a mellow soundtrack as you take in the view. The waterfall is commonly reached via a moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail that climbs about 350 feet, so plan for a little uphill on the return. If you’re camping, Black River Harbor Pavilion is nearby — roughly 5.55 km from the falls — offering a convenient base for an overnight trip. Overall, Maple Creek Falls is an inviting hike that rewards a modest effort with a tranquil woodland waterfall experience.
The Setting
Maple Creek Falls sits at 735 feet along the Presque Isle River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
This is a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. The route follows a single marked path through forested terrain to the creek and falls; hikers should expect a mix of rolling grades rather than steep sustained climbs. The trail is well suited to day hikers comfortable with moderate uphill sections; allow time for slowing down on the approach and to enjoy the waterfall once you arrive.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Maple Creek Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Maple Creek Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons.
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, especially after rain. Watch for ticks and other insects in the wooded areas.
Current Water Conditions
35 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 3 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 PRESQUE ISLE RIVER NEAR CONNORVILLE, MI (12 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
36 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
35 cfs
4/10Tue
Barely Flowing
36 cfs
3/10Wed
Low
38 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
38 cfs
4/10Fri
Barely Flowing
35 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
34 cfs
5/10Best window: Fri — barely flowing flow, mostly 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 Bessemer 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 shows the creek losing roughly 60 feet through Maple Creek Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 753 feet.
The ground changes about 28 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 35 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northeast and 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
- 753 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 60 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- 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 northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Maple Creek Falls is located near the town of Lake Ann in Benzie County, Michigan. Access may require navigating local roads and potentially a short walk through the forest.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may consist of roadside parking or small pull-offs near the trailhead.
Elevation
735 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.646111° N, -90.113333° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be uneven in places. Visit after rainfall for a more robust water flow. Be mindful of limited parking and plan to arrive early during peak seasons.
Where to Stay
North Ironwood Acres - Black River Lodge
Snow Otter Haus - 1
Snow Otter Haus - 2
Quality Inn Ironwood
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
BLACK RIVER HARBOR PAVILION
3.4 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Planning a visit to the Black River Harbor Pavilion? Watch for Alerts at the top of the page for any Alerts regarding this facility. The Black River Harbor Pavilion is located within the Black Harbor Recreation Area on Lake Superior in Michigans Upper Peninsula. The historic stone and wood pavilion was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Recreation Lake Superior offers great opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The North Country National Scenic Trail
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Lake Ann, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, and Platte River are nearby attractions worth exploring.
Wildlife
The area is home to various bird species, deer, and other small woodland animals.
Cities near Maple Creek Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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