Scott Falls
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Drive Up
Trail Length
0.1 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
20 ft
About Scott Falls
Scott Falls is a compact, picture-postcard waterfall right along Highway M-28 near Au Train in Alger County. The falls tumble roughly 10 feet over a sandstone cliff into a small plunge pool, and because they sit immediately adjacent to the road they’re one of the easiest natural sights to enjoy in the area. You can spot the drop from the highway across from the H.J. Rathfoot State Roadside Park — a quick pull-off makes it a popular stop for photographers and travelers exploring Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The land is managed by the U.S. Forest Service within the Hiawatha National Forest, so the roadside setting is part of a larger public forest landscape. While Scott Falls is most often enjoyed as a roadside attraction, it rewards a little extra exploration if you want a closer view. Note that much of the immediate approach is an informal roadside path rather than a developed hiking trail; pack out what you pack in and take care around the sandstone ledge and pool. Nearby on Hiawatha National Forest the AUTRAIN RIVER CANOE ROUTE (USFS Trail #303) offers a very different, water-based way to experience the area — that route is cataloged as a Class 2 canoe route on Forest Service maps.
Height: 10 feet
USFS Trail
AUTRAIN RIVER CANOE ROUTE #303
Trail Class
Moderately Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
9.95 miTrail Description
There is no formal maintained hiking trail to Scott Falls; the falls are visible from Highway M-28 with a short walk from the roadside pull-out. The typical visitor approach is an out-and-back of about 0.1 miles with roughly 20 feet of elevation gain to get a closer vantage point; overall difficulty is described as drive_up. The falls themselves drop about 10 feet over sandstone into a shallow pool. For official USFS trail data in the vicinity, note the AUTRAIN RIVER CANOE ROUTE (Trail #303) is listed as a water-surface route (Surface: WATER), Class 2, with a typical grade of 0–5% and about 9.95 GIS miles; that is a canoe/kayak corridor rather than a hiking trail. Visitors should treat the roadside approach as an informal, unpaved access and follow Forest Service guidance while on Hiawatha National Forest lands.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a small but charming waterfall that is easy to access. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery in the warmer months and may freeze into a beautiful ice formation during winter.
Accessibility
The falls are visible from the road, making them accessible for most visitors, including those with limited mobility.
Seasonal Closures
The falls are open year-round, but heavy snow in winter may make access more difficult.
Safety Information
Be cautious when parking and walking near the highway. In winter, icy conditions may make the area slippery.
Location & Access
Getting There
Scott Falls is located directly off Highway M-28, just west of the town of Au Train. The waterfall is visible from the road, making it a convenient stop for travelers.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small pull-off area along the highway where visitors can park to view the falls.
Elevation
640 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.436932° N, -86.814425° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during spring or after rainfall for the best water flow. Be cautious when pulling off the highway, as the parking area is small and close to the road.
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For this easy 0.1 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
Find hotels, lodges, and B&Bs near the trailhead
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
GRAND ISLAND CABINS
7.0 miles away · 2 sites
Overview Grand Island Cabins are remotely located on forested Grand Island, surrounded by Lake Superior, 1/2 mile off the mainland community of Munising, Michigan. The cabins are placed in individual settings providing an excellent base for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.Recreation Recreation opportunities include: kayaking, biking, hiking, fishing, swimming, beachcombing, and hunting.Facilities Each cabin is 14' x 16' with an attached 8' x 14' screened in porch and offers four full
Book on Recreation.govFrequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Scott Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Scott Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
Best Seasons to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for viewing the falls at their fullest, but the frozen falls in winter also offer a unique and beautiful sight.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Au Train Beach, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, and Munising Falls are all within a short drive.
Wildlife
Visitors may see birds, small mammals, and other typical wildlife of the Michigan Upper Peninsula.
