Onion Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (2)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Onion Falls
Onion Falls is a tucked-away cascade in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, set within the Ontonagon land unit of the Michigan Wild and Scenic River (WSR) system and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The falls sit along a small forest stream on land owned by DESG, offering a quiet, secluded experience that changes with the seasons — spring runoff brings the most dramatic flow while late summer can be much gentler. The setting feels remote despite a relatively short approach: dense mixed forest and fern-carpeted slopes frame the plunge, making this a peaceful stop for hikers who enjoy off-the-beaten-path scenery. Because the site is overseen by the USFS, visitors should follow Leave No Trace principles and be prepared for variable trail conditions, especially after rain.
The Setting
Onion Falls sits at 1,099 feet within Ontonagon, Michigan Wild and Scenic River, fed by the Ontonagon River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail to Onion Falls is an out-and-back route of 2.4 miles with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. The available management data do not list a specific USFS trail name or number, nor do they specify formal surface, grade, or trail class; in practice the path winds through forest, can be narrow in places, and tends to be uneven and muddy after wet weather. Hikers can expect a steady but not overly steep climb—good footwear and traction are recommended for the short descent to the falls and the return climb.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful and quiet setting with a small but picturesque waterfall. The flow of the falls may vary depending on recent rainfall or snowmelt. Wildlife sightings are possible in the surrounding forest.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Onion Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Onion Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Onion Falls, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may provide a unique frozen waterfall experience.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should exercise caution on wet or muddy trails to avoid slipping. Be aware of wildlife and carry bear spray if hiking in the area. Cell phone reception may be limited.
Current Water Conditions
489 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 84 years of record
5.25 ft
Water depth at gauge
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 ONTONAGON RIVER NEAR ROCKLAND, MI (24 km away).
Today
Low
489 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Low
458 cfs
5/10Tue
Moderate
510 cfs
5/10Wed
Moderate
513 cfs
5/10Thu
Moderate
545 cfs
5/10Fri
Moderate
502 cfs
8/10Sat
Moderate
534 cfs
5/10Best window: Fri — moderate flow, mostly sunny (trip score 8/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid 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 Bruce Crossing 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.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 176 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Elevation at the pin is about 1,127 feet.
Steep ground runs through the entire stretch: about 70 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the pin and 78 feet in the 500 feet below it. Facing south, 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
- 1,127 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 176 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- South
- 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 south).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Onion Falls is located near the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Access may require navigating unpaved roads and a short hike through forested terrain. Specific directions should be confirmed before visiting.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may consist of small pull-off areas near the trailhead. Visitors should plan accordingly.
Elevation
1,099 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.570497° N, -88.984584° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear as the trail may be muddy or uneven. Bring insect repellent during warmer months, as mosquitoes and other insects are common. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the trail may become slippery after rain.
Where to Stay
Two Rivers Motel and Cabins of Kenton, MI
Bergland Bay Bungalow
Scott's Superior Inn and Cabins
Pet-Friendly Michigan Getaway with Porch and Kayaks!
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
Kenton Ranger District
7.3 miles away · 0 sites
The Kenton Ranger District is the largest and oldest district on the Ottawa, dating back to 1931, when the forest had only one district. The recreation program includes a wide variety of dispersed activities including hunting, fishing, remote camping and hiking including two wildernesses, snowmobiling on numerous maintained trails, recreational driving with a variety of potential destinations including lakes, waterfalls and other scenic attractions. Developed recreation includes 7 campgrounds (3
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Lake Superior shoreline, and other waterfalls in the Upper Peninsula.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of black bears, which are present in the region.
Cities near Onion Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Onion Falls
1 other waterfall shares this name across the U.S.
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