Ogimakwe Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (1)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Ogimakwe Falls
Ogimakwe Falls sits tucked away in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula on the Sturgeon River, offering a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path waterfall experience. The falls are celebrated for their natural beauty and quiet setting, making them a rewarding destination for hikers who enjoy a bit of solitude and photography opportunities amid northern forest scenery. Reaching the falls is a manageable day trip: the out-and-back route is about 2.4 miles round trip with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain and is commonly rated moderate. If you plan to camp nearby, Black River Harbor Campground is the closest option at about 9.95 km away and makes a convenient base for an overnight stay or a sunrise visit to the falls.
The Setting
Ogimakwe Falls sits at 1,040 feet along the Presque Isle River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Ogimakwe Falls is an approximately 2.4-mile out-and-back with about 350 feet of cumulative elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. The tread is natural forest path that can be uneven and muddy in places, with a few short steeper pitches—sturdy footwear and cautious footing are recommended. Expect a fairly straightforward route without technical scrambling; pack water and layers for changing conditions and allow time to enjoy the falls once you arrive.
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 Ogimakwe Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Ogimakwe Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Ogimakwe Falls, as water flow is typically higher during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a unique view of the frozen waterfall, though access may be more challenging.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall and be prepared for remote conditions. Carry a map or GPS device, as cell service may be unreliable. Always let someone know your plans before venturing into remote areas.
Current Water Conditions
36 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 3 years of record
5.28 ft
Water depth at gauge
63°F
CoolRefreshing for swimming
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is a refreshing 63 degrees F, good for a quick swim. Expect excellent dissolved oxygen levels. Mineral content is typical.
Water Quality
Dissolved Oxygen
ExcellentSupports aquatic life
Conductance
Dissolved minerals in the water
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge PRESQUE ISLE RIVER NEAR CONNORVILLE, MI (7 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
36 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
36 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
38 cfs
3/10Mon
Barely Flowing
37 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
38 cfs
3/10Wed
Low
40 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
40 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, 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 Wakefield 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.
Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 100 feet of drop through Ogimakwe Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 1,032 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 30 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 9 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
- 1,032 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 100 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
Ogimakwe Falls is located in the Ottawa National Forest in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Access typically involves driving on forest roads and then hiking a short distance to reach the falls. The exact route may vary depending on trail conditions and seasonal accessibility.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at a nearby trailhead, but spaces may be limited. Visitors should be prepared for unpaved or rough parking areas.
Elevation
1,040 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.640711° N, -89.926740° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring insect repellent during the summer months, as mosquitoes and other insects can be prevalent. Check trail conditions before visiting, especially in spring when trails may be muddy. Cell service may be limited, so plan accordingly.
Where to Stay
Snow Otter Haus - 2
Snow Otter Haus - 1
North Ironwood Acres - Black River Lodge
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
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Nearby Campground
BLACK RIVER HARBOR CAMPGROUND
6.2 miles away · 40 sites
Overview Planning a trip to the Black River Harbor Campground? Watch for Alerts at the top of the page for any Alerts regarding this facility. Black River Campground is adjacent to the Black River Harbor Recreation Area. The recreation area includes a pavilion, harbor and a large picnic area. The area provides for many opportunities for fishing, boating, backpacking, hiking, bird watching, photography and beautiful scenery for relaxation in the outdoors. Recreation The campground is adjacent to
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other waterfalls in the Ottawa National Forest, such as Sturgeon Falls and Canyon Falls, are worth visiting. The area also offers hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and occasionally black bears. Visitors should exercise caution and store food securely.
Cities near Ogimakwe Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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