LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Ogemaw Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout Ogemaw Falls
Ogemaw Falls is a small, picturesque cascade tucked into Michigan woodlands, offering a quiet spot to soak in the sound of tumbling water and the surrounding forest canopy. The falls sit within a State Forest land unit designated PCON and are managed by OTHS, so expect a natural, undeveloped setting rather than built overlooks or railings. The scene is intimate and photogenic—perfect for a short nature break or a mellow afternoon hike. Access is via a 2.4-mile out-and-back route that gains roughly 350 feet, making the approach feel like a meaningful walk without being an all-day commitment. The nearest designated campground listed for the area is Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness, about 14.7 km away, so plan accordingly if you’re thinking of an overnight trip. Visitors should come prepared for a rustic experience and check local sources for any seasonal access notes.
The Setting
Ogemaw Falls sits at 1,184 feet within State Forest, fed by the Sturgeon River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail length: 2.4 miles (out-and-back); elevation gain: ~350 feet; difficulty: moderate. The provided data does not specify a USFS trail number, surface type, grade, or formal trail class, so hikers should anticipate a typical state-forest footpath with natural tread, roots and occasional rocks. Wear sturdy footwear, bring water, and check local land manager (OTHS) updates before heading out for current trail conditions.
What to Expect
Expect a quiet and scenic natural area with a small waterfall surrounded by forest. The area may be less developed, so plan accordingly.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The area may not be suitable for visitors with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Ogemaw Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Ogemaw Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as water flow is typically higher 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 waterfall and uneven terrain. Cell service may be limited in the area.
Current Water Conditions
11 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 86 years of record
3.13 ft
Water depth at gauge
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.
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 STURGEON RIVER NEAR SIDNAW, MI (9 km away).
Today
Low
11 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
13 cfs
5/10Sun
Low
12 cfs
6/10Mon
Low
12 cfs
6/10Tue
Low
13 cfs
4/10Wed
Moderate
13 cfs
5/10Thu
Moderate
14 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 early 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 Baraga 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 ground through the falls loses about 92 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 1,181 feet above sea level.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 92 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 91 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing southwest, the falls sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,181 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 92 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Ogemaw Falls is located near the Rifle River in Ogemaw County, Michigan. Access is typically via local roads, but specific directions may vary depending on the starting point.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but visitors may need to park along nearby roads or at designated areas if available.
Elevation
1,184 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.648889° N, -88.511944° W
Land Management
Managed by OTHS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring sturdy footwear and be prepared for a potentially unmarked or minimally maintained trail. Check weather conditions before visiting.
Where to Stay
Champion Vacation Rental with Fire Pit!
UP Escape in the Pines
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
9.1 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
The Rifle River and other natural areas in Ogemaw County offer additional opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing and hiking.
Wildlife
The area may feature common Michigan wildlife such as deer, birds, and small mammals.
Cities near Ogemaw Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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