Mex-i-min-e Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Mex-i-min-e Falls
Mex-i-min-e Falls is a small, picturesque waterfall tucked into Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and set within the Ottawa National Forest, managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Its lesser-known status makes it a quiet spot for visitors seeking a peaceful, wooded setting where you can enjoy the sound of falling water without crowds. The forested surroundings and short approach make the falls a great half-day outing for families or solo hikers who appreciate solitude and nature photography. Access to the falls is via a USFS-maintained route — NFST-3960-Y (Trail #T3960-Y) — and the area is part of the Ottawa National Forest (NF). If you’d like to extend your visit, the Marion Lake Group Site campground is about 5.55 km away, offering a convenient nearby option for car camping or an overnight stay under the pines.
The Setting
Mex-i-min-e Falls sits at 1,549 feet within Ottawa National Forest, fed by the Middle Branch Ontonagon River, in the hills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy hike follows Nfst 3960 Y (#T3960-Y), a 0.5-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
NFST-3960-Y #T3960-Y
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.08 miTrail Description
The common route to Mex-i-min-e Falls combines a 2.4-mile out-and-back hike with a short USFS spur: NFST-3960-Y (Trail #T3960-Y). Overall hiking stats: 2.4 miles round trip, approximately 350 feet of elevation gain, and rated moderate in difficulty. The NFST-3960-Y segment mapped by the Forest Service is a very short (0.08-mile) section surfaced with native material; the trail class is 3 with a typical grade of 0–5%. Expect a mostly natural tread through woods; sections may be muddy or slippery after rain, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The trail is maintained by the U.S. Forest Service within the Ottawa National Forest and connects hikers to the peaceful falls with minimal steep climbing.
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 Mex-i-min-e Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Mex-i-min-e Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Mex-i-min-e Falls, as the water flow is usually at its peak during these seasons. Fall offers stunning foliage, while summer provides warm weather for a pleasant hike.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Ottawa National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Exercise caution on the trail, especially after rain, as it may be slippery. Be aware of wildlife and carry insect repellent during warmer months.
Current Water Conditions
90 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 78 years of record
4.10 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
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge MIDDLE BRANCH ONTONAGON RIVER NEAR PAULDING, MI (5 km away).
Today
Low
89 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
90 cfs
5/10Sun
Low
89 cfs
6/10Mon
Low
88 cfs
6/10Tue
Low
94 cfs
4/10Wed
Moderate
95 cfs
5/10Thu
Moderate
95 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — low flow, sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to mid 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 Watersmeet 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.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Mex-i-min-e Falls is located near the Indian River in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. It can be accessed via a short drive from the town of Manistique. The falls are situated within a forested area, and visitors may need to follow a short trail to reach the viewing area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is limited parking available near the trailhead. Visitors are advised to arrive early during peak seasons to secure a spot.
Elevation
1,549 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.312580° N, -89.053798° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes, especially if visiting after rain, as the trail may be muddy. Bring insect repellent during the summer months to protect against mosquitoes. Consider visiting during the fall for beautiful foliage or in the spring when water flow is typically higher.
Where to Stay
Boulder Bear Motor Lodge
Phelps Cabin on 26 Acres with Fire Pit!
Two Rivers Motel and Cabins of Kenton, MI
AmericInn by Wyndham Iron River
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
MARION LAKE GROUP SITE
3.4 miles away · 1 sites
Overview The sparkling Marion Lake offers breathtaking and exciting camping for your next family trip. Live it up on the water with your jet skis or wake board, or tone down the pace with a full day of fishing. The Marion Lake Group Site is an ideal way to spend time with friends and family for all the water activities you can imagine. Marion Lake is in the Ottawa National Forest, a protected area in the Western Upper Peninsula of Michigan. It stretches from the Lake Superior shoreline to the Wis
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Indian River Canoe Trail and other waterfalls in the Upper Peninsula, such as Manido Falls and Munising Falls.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Cities near Mex-i-min-e Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Aerial
LiDAR
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