Sandstone 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 Sandstone Falls
Sandstone Falls is a scenic waterfall located in Michigan, known for its unique rock formations and tranquil surroundings. It is a smaller, lesser-known waterfall compared to others in the state, offering a peaceful experience for visitors.
The Setting
Sandstone Falls sits at 712 feet within Ottawa National Forest, fed by the Presque Isle River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy hike follows Sandstone Falls (#60084), a 1.0-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. The trail is highly developed (Class 4).
USFS Trail
SANDSTONE FALLS #60084
Trail Class
Highly Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.20 miTrail Description
The trail to Sandstone Falls is a short and easy hike through a forested area, leading to a serene waterfall surrounded by sandstone rock formations. The path is well-marked and suitable for most visitors.
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 Sandstone Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Sandstone Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, 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. Check with Ottawa National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Visitors should exercise caution on wet or slippery rocks near the waterfall. Cell phone service may be limited in the area, so plan accordingly.
Current Water Conditions
36 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 3 years of record
5.28 ft
Water depth at gauge
63°F
CoolRefreshing for swimming
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is a refreshing 63 degrees F, good for a quick swim. Expect excellent dissolved oxygen levels. Mineral content is typical.
Water Quality
Dissolved Oxygen
ExcellentSupports aquatic life
Conductance
Dissolved minerals in the water
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge PRESQUE ISLE RIVER NEAR CONNORVILLE, MI (7 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
36 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
36 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
38 cfs
3/10Mon
Barely Flowing
37 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
38 cfs
3/10Wed
Low
40 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
40 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
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 Bessemer 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 measures about 108 feet of descent through Sandstone Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 715 feet above sea level.
The whole reach is steep: about 138 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 95 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northwest and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 715 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 108 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Sandstone Falls is located near Munising, Michigan, within the Hiawatha National Forest. Access typically involves driving on forest roads, which may be unpaved or rough in some areas. Visitors should check local maps or GPS for precise directions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, though spaces may be limited. Visitors should plan to arrive early during peak seasons.
Elevation
712 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.651613° N, -90.046284° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy after rain. Bring insect repellent during the summer months to protect against mosquitoes. Check road conditions before visiting, especially in winter or after heavy rain.
Where to Stay
Snow Otter Haus - 2
Snow Otter Haus - 1
North Ironwood Acres - Black River Lodge
Quality Inn Ironwood
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
BLACK RIVER HARBOR PAVILION
1.3 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 Munising Falls, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, and other waterfalls in the Hiawatha National Forest.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of ticks during warmer months.
Cities near Sandstone Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Other waterfalls named Sandstone Falls
2 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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