Quartzite Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Quartzite Falls
Quartzite Falls is a small, scenic cascade tucked along the Slate River in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, known for its rugged rock outcrops and quiet woodland setting. The falls sit within the Slate River Forest Reserve, a privately managed conservation area (designation: PCON) overseen by an NGO, so visitors will find a sense of intentional stewardship and preserved natural character rather than heavy infrastructure. Its compact, photogenic drop and the surrounding wilderness make it a favorite stop for hikers and photographers looking for a peaceful riverside view. Access to the falls is via a moderate out-and-back route that rewards a short effort with expansive forest and riverfront scenery.
The Setting
Quartzite Falls sits at 784 feet within Slate River Forest Reserve, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Rated moderate. The route follows an unpaved forest path through wooded terrain and is uneven in places; hikers should watch for roots and rocks and expect some steady uphill pitches on the approach. No formal USFS trail number is provided for this route; the path is maintained within the Slate River Forest Reserve by the NGO land manager.
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 Quartzite Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Quartzite Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as water flow is typically higher due to snowmelt and rainfall. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a unique view of the frozen falls.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the water, as rocks can be slippery. Be aware of changing weather conditions, and avoid visiting during heavy rain or snowstorms. Cell service may be limited in the area.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Silver River, 3.6 miles away, not on Quartzite Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
45 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 25 years of record
6.68 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
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge SILVER RIVER NEAR L'ANSE, MI (6 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
49 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
56 cfs
4/10Fri
Low
68 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
67 cfs
4/10Sun
Barely Flowing
60 cfs
4/10Mon
Barely Flowing
56 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
53 cfs
5/10Best window: Mon — 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 Skanee hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Quartzite Falls Frozen?
Updated about 6 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately north-facing, shaded
Quartzite Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 53°F to 37°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 48 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in Michigan.
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 measures about 63 feet of descent through Quartzite Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 780 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 37 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 50 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing northeast, 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
- 780 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 63 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- 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 northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Quartzite Falls is located near L'Anse, Michigan, in Baraga County. Access typically involves driving on forest roads, which may be rough or unpaved. Visitors should use a reliable map or GPS to navigate to the Slate River area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited. Visitors should be prepared for potentially uneven or unmarked parking areas.
Elevation
784 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.826083° N, -88.246883° W
Land Management
Managed by NGO
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear as the trail may be uneven. Bring insect repellent during warmer months, as mosquitoes can be prevalent. Check road conditions before visiting, especially during wet weather, as forest roads may become muddy or difficult to navigate.
Where to Stay
Independence Stay Hotel and Long term suites
AC4 Northwoods Getaway w Jetted Tub
UP Escape in the Pines
Lakefront Lookout! Private Sand Beach on Superior
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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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other waterfalls along the Slate River, such as Slate River Falls and Black Slate Falls. The nearby town of L'Anse offers additional amenities and attractions.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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