Root Beer Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (4)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Root Beer Falls
Root Beer Falls is a small, charming cascade on the Salmon Trout River in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The falls get their distinctive brownish color from tannins leached from surrounding vegetation and bogs, which gives the water a root-beer hue and makes the spot a favorite for photographers and hikers seeking a quiet, scenic setting tucked into the woods. The falls are reached by a relatively short hike that still feels rewarding — the out-and-back route to the viewing area is about 2.4 miles round trip with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, so plan for a moderate outing. The trail winds through mature forest and mossy banks to bring you close to the river; give yourself time to pause and enjoy the peaceful sounds and scenery once you arrive.
The Setting
Root Beer Falls sits at 1,332 feet along the Black 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 route follows a wooded footpath that winds through forested terrain to the Salmon Trout River and the falls. Tread is primarily natural dirt and leaf cover and can be uneven in places (roots, occasional rocks); the overall elevation gain produces some short, steeper pitches amid otherwise gentle grades. Sturdy footwear is recommended and most hikers will find the route straightforward, but expect moderate exertion on the return.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Root Beer Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Root Beer Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the water flow is typically stronger 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 falls, especially after rain. Wear appropriate footwear and stay on marked trails to avoid injury.
Current Water Conditions
15 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 53 years of record
1.89 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 BLACK RIVER NEAR BESSEMER, MI (11 km away).
Today
Low
15 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
16 cfs
6/10Sun
Moderate
16 cfs
5/10Mon
Low
15 cfs
6/10Tue
Moderate
14 cfs
5/10Wed
Moderate
15 cfs
5/10Thu
Moderate
22 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 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 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.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Root Beer Falls is located near the town of Ishpeming in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. It can be accessed via local roads, but specific directions may vary depending on the starting point. Visitors are advised to use GPS or consult local maps for the most accurate route.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is limited parking available near the falls. Visitors should be prepared for potentially small or informal parking areas.
Elevation
1,332 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.506944° N, -89.937500° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during the spring or after rainfall for the best water flow. Bring insect repellent during the summer months, as mosquitoes can be prevalent. Be cautious of slippery rocks near the falls.
Where to Stay
North Ironwood Acres - Black River Lodge
AmericInn by Wyndham Ironwood
Days Inn by Wyndham Hurley
Bergland Bay Bungalow
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.
Nearby Campground
BLACK RIVER HARBOR PAVILION
12.5 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Planning a visit to the Black River Harbor Pavilion? Watch for Alerts at the top of the page for any Alerts regarding this facility. The Black River Harbor Pavilion is located within the Black Harbor Recreation Area on Lake Superior in Michigans Upper Peninsula. The historic stone and wood pavilion was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Recreation Lake Superior offers great opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The North Country National Scenic Trail
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the town of Ishpeming, other waterfalls in the Upper Peninsula, and hiking trails in the surrounding forests.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors may also encounter insects such as mosquitoes during warmer months.
Cities near Root Beer Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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