LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Sand Portage Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainAbout Sand Portage Falls
Sand Portage Falls is a scenic waterfall located along the Tahquamenon River in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. It is part of the Tahquamenon Falls State Park, known for its stunning natural beauty and cascading waterfalls. Sand Portage Falls is smaller and less prominent than the nearby Upper and Lower Tahquamenon Falls but offers a serene and picturesque setting.
The Setting
Sand Portage Falls sits at 869 feet along the Menominee River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Sand Portage Falls is not well-documented, and it may require exploring less-traveled paths along the Tahquamenon River. Visitors should be prepared for potentially uneven terrain and bring appropriate footwear.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful and less-crowded experience at Sand Portage Falls compared to the more popular Upper and Lower Tahquamenon Falls. The area is surrounded by lush forest and offers opportunities for photography and nature observation.
Accessibility
Accessibility information for Sand Portage Falls is not well-documented. Visitors with mobility concerns should contact the park office for guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Sand Portage Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $0.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Sand Portage 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 landscape.
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 and currents may be strong. Be prepared for uneven terrain and bring appropriate gear for hiking.
Current Water Conditions
947 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 38 years of record
4.84 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual 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 MENOMINEE RIVER NEAR VULCAN, MI (8 km away).
Today
Low
947 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Low
837 cfs
6/10Tue
Low
860 cfs
6/10Wed
Low
929 cfs
4/10Thu
Moderate
937 cfs
5/10Fri
Low
876 cfs
6/10Sat
Low
922 cfs
4/10Best window: Tomorrow — low flow, mostly sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late 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 Niagara 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.
Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 53 feet of drop through Sand Portage Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 869 feet above sea level.
Both above and below, the ground is gentle; the falls are the one abrupt step in an otherwise easy-going creek. 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
- 869 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 53 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
Sand Portage Falls is located within Tahquamenon Falls State Park. Visitors can access the park via M-123, which runs through the Upper Peninsula. The falls are situated along the Tahquamenon River, downstream from the Lower Tahquamenon Falls.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at designated areas within Tahquamenon Falls State Park. Visitors should follow park signage to locate the nearest parking area.
Elevation
869 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.759958° N, -87.964569° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a map or GPS device, as trails to Sand Portage Falls may not be clearly marked. Wear sturdy footwear and be cautious of slippery rocks near the water.
Where to Stay
Mountain Host Motor Inn
Pine Mountain Resort
Comfort Inn Iron Mountain North
Baymont by Wyndham Iron Mountain
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
Nearby attractions include the Upper and Lower Tahquamenon Falls, as well as hiking trails and picnic areas within Tahquamenon Falls State Park.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, black bears, and numerous bird species. Visitors may also spot fish in the Tahquamenon River.
Cities near Sand Portage Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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