Saint Marys Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.6 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
50 ft
About Saint Marys Falls
Saint Marys Falls — commonly called the Soo Locks — sits along the St. Marys River in Michigan and marks a vital link between Lake Superior and Lake Huron. This stretch of river has been heavily engineered to allow commercial ships to transit between the lakes, and the locks and falls are as much an industrial landmark as a natural one. Visitors come to watch massive freighters move through the lock chambers and to appreciate the engineering and maritime history visible at the waterfront viewing points. A short, family-friendly walking route leads from nearby parking and public viewing areas to the best overlooks of the locks and falls. The site is ideal for photographers, ship-spotters, and anyone curious about Great Lakes navigation — expect clear views of the operating locks and river flow rather than a remote wilderness hike.
The Setting
Saint Marys Falls sits at 597 feet along the St. Marys River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.6-mile out-and-back trail gains 50 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Short out-and-back viewing walk: 0.6 miles round trip with roughly 50 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty: easy. The route is a brief, gently graded stroll from parking to designated observation areas overlooking the Soo Locks and Saint Marys Falls, making it accessible for most hikers and ideal for a quick stop to watch lock operations and passing freighters.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect to see the impressive Soo Locks, which allow ships to bypass the natural rapids of Saint Marys Falls. The area is a mix of natural beauty and engineering marvels, with opportunities to learn about the history of the locks and their importance to Great Lakes shipping.
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 Saint Marys Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Saint Marys Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is during the summer and fall when the weather is pleasant, and the Soo Locks Visitor Center is open. Winter visits may also be interesting for those who enjoy seeing the frozen river.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
Stay within designated viewing areas and avoid approaching the water due to strong currents and boat traffic. Winter conditions can be icy and slippery.
Current Water Conditions
40,900 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 17 years of record
579.44 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
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Saint Marys Falls is located in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan. The area is accessible by car, and the Soo Locks Visitor Center provides information and views of the locks and river.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the Soo Locks Visitor Center in Sault Ste. Marie.
Elevation
597 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.507800° N, -84.362540° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit the Soo Locks Visitor Center for the best views and educational exhibits. Bring binoculars for a closer look at the ships passing through the locks. Dress warmly in winter as the area can be very cold.
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For this easy 0.6 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Where to Stay
Comfort Inn Sault Ste Marie MI
Quality Inn & Suites Bay Front
Lockview Motel
Holiday Inn Express Sault Ste Marie 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
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Nearby Campground
Whitefish Bay National Forest Scenic Byway
12.6 miles away · 0 sites
Located along the shore of Lake Superior on the Hiawatha's Sault Ste. Marie Ranger District, the Whitefish Bay Scenic Byway offers many opportunities for visitors to connect with the natural beauty and cultural history of this impressive Great Lake!
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Tower of History, the Museum Ship Valley Camp, and the River of History Museum in Sault Ste. Marie.
Wildlife
The area around the St. Marys River may feature birds such as gulls, ducks, and other waterfowl. Wildlife sightings are limited due to the urban setting.
Cities near Saint Marys Falls
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