Pinnacle Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Pinnacle Falls
Tucked into the Michigamme Highlands Easement in Michigan, Pinnacle Falls is a tranquil, forest-framed cascade on private land held under a conservation easement (Designation: CONE) and managed by a local conservation NGO. Though modest in size, this lesser-known spot rewards hikers and photographers with peaceful water-and-woodland views and a quiet, restorative atmosphere away from busier state parks. Access is best for visitors prepared to follow private-land rules and Leave No Trace practices; the landowner and managing NGO steward the surrounding property to protect habitat and scenic character. The approach to the falls is an out-and-back outing of about 2.4 miles round trip with roughly 350 feet of climbing, making it a pleasant half-day hike for anyone comfortable on a moderate trail.
The Setting
Pinnacle Falls sits at 1,234 feet within Michigamme Highlands Easement, fed by the East Branch Salmon Trout River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Pinnacle Falls is a 2.4-mile out-and-back with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. The path passes through forested terrain and can feature uneven footing in places, so sturdy footwear is recommended; specific USFS trail surface, grade, and class data are not available for this privately managed easement. There is no USFS trail name or number provided in the available information, so use the 2.4-mile distance and 350-foot gain as the primary planning metrics for this hike.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a quiet and serene waterfall surrounded by natural beauty. The area is ideal for photography, relaxation, and enjoying the sounds of nature.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Pinnacle Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Pinnacle Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the waterfall is likely to have the most water flow during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Water temperature is currently 50°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall. Always stay on marked trails and avoid getting too close to the edge of the falls.
Current Water Conditions
13 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 20 years of record
1.56 ft
Water depth at gauge
50°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
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. Water temperature is very cold at 50 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes. Mineral content is typical.
Water Quality
Conductance
Dissolved minerals in the water
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 EAST BRANCH SALMON TROUT RIVER NEAR DODGE CITY, MI (9 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
13 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
12 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
13 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
15 cfs
5/10Tue
Low
16 cfs
4/10Wed
Low
15 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
14 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to mid 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 Big Bay 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 131 feet through Pinnacle Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 1,232 feet.
The ground changes about 45 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 22 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southeast and 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
- 1,232 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 131 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southeast
- 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 southeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Pinnacle Falls is located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Specific directions may vary, so it is recommended to use a GPS or consult local maps for the most accurate route.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear, but visitors may find small parking areas or roadside spots near the trailhead.
Elevation
1,234 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.706317° N, -87.806799° W
Land Management
Managed by NGO
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during spring or after rainfall for the best water flow. Bring insect repellent during summer months as mosquitoes can be present. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may have uneven terrain.
Where to Stay
Comfort Suites Marquette
Holiday Inn Marquette by IHG
My Place Hotel-Marquette, MI
Staybridge Suites Marquette by IHG
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.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
The Upper Peninsula of Michigan offers many other waterfalls and natural attractions, such as Tahquamenon Falls and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Cities near Pinnacle Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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