Middle Falls River Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
4.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Middle Falls River Falls
Middle Falls is one of the three main waterfalls along the Tahquamenon River inside Tahquamenon Falls State Park, Michigan. Smaller and less visited than the park’s dramatic Upper Falls, Middle Falls offers a quieter, intimate cascade and scenic river views that make it a rewarding stop for photographers and hikers looking for a peaceful stretch of river. The falls are part of the park’s connected system of cascades and viewing opportunities between the Upper and Lower Falls, so you can enjoy river scenery without the big crowds found at the park’s primary attraction. Access to Middle Falls is via a moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail that gains roughly 350 feet, winding through forested parkland as it links the Upper and Lower Falls areas. The route is generally well-maintained but can become muddy or uneven after rain, so sturdy footwear is recommended. There isn’t developed camping right at the falls; the nearest listed camping option is Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness, about 23.65 km away.
The Setting
Middle Falls River Falls sits at 748 feet along the Falls River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail type: out-and-back (2.4 miles round trip); distance one-way typically described as the full 2.4-mile outing to and from the falls. Elevation gain: approximately 350 feet. Difficulty: moderate. The trail follows maintained forest paths through Tahquamenon Falls State Park that connect the Upper and Lower Falls viewing areas; surfaces are primarily packed dirt and natural tread with some roots and occasional muddy stretches. Grade: generally moderate with short climbs and descents; Trail class: non-technical hiking trail suitable for most hikers, though conditions can be uneven after rain.
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 Middle Falls River Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $10.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Middle Falls River Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and fall are ideal for visiting due to higher water flow and vibrant foliage. Summer is also popular but can be busier.
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. Stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost or encountering hazardous areas. Carry water and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
Current Water Conditions
18 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 12 years of record
4.04 ft
Water depth at gauge
52°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is a bracing 52 degrees F, limit your time in the water. Mineral content is typical.
Water Quality
Conductance
Dissolved minerals in the water
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge FALLS RIVER NEAR L'ANSE, MI (1 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
18 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
18 cfs
4/10Tue
Barely Flowing
18 cfs
3/10Wed
Low
20 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
17 cfs
4/10Fri
Barely Flowing
15 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
16 cfs
5/10Best window: Fri — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to late 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 L'Anse 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 41 feet through Middle Falls River Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 748 feet.
Both above and below, the ground is gentle; the falls are the one abrupt step in an otherwise easy-going creek. Facing north, 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
- 748 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 41 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- 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 north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Middle Falls is located within Tahquamenon Falls State Park. Visitors can access it via the park's trail system, which connects the Upper and Lower Falls. The park is located near Paradise, Michigan, and is accessible by car via M-123.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at both the Upper and Lower Falls parking areas. From there, visitors can hike to Middle Falls.
Elevation
748 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.744866° N, -88.449716° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be uneven or muddy. Bring insect repellent during the summer months. Consider visiting in the fall for stunning foliage or in the spring when water flow is at its peak.
Where to Stay
UP Escape in the Pines
Champion Vacation Rental with Fire Pit!
Whole home, private lake, sauna, WFH office
Tiny Woodland Cottage Retreat with Yard in Pelkie
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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Nearby Campground
Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness
14.7 miles away · 0 sites
The Wild and Scenic Sturgeon River rushes out of the northern portion of this wilderness, over the 20 foot volcanic outcroppings of Sturgeon Falls, and through a gorge that reaches 350 feet in depth and a mile in width. Throughout this rugged, steep Wilderness, the Sturgeon and Little Silver Rivers and their tributaries have carved falls, rapids, ponds, oxbows, and terraces. Stunning views are possible from the eastern rim of the gorge. Except for a few naturally bare slopes, most of the land is
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Upper Falls, Lower Falls, Tahquamenon Falls Brewery & Pub, Whitefish Point Lighthouse, Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum.
Wildlife
The area is home to deer, black bears, foxes, and a variety of bird species. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the trail.
Cities near Middle Falls River Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Aerial
Aerial
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