Shining Cloud Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Hard
Trail Length
9.0 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Shining Cloud Falls
Shining Cloud Falls is a stunning waterfall located in the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park in Michigan. It is known for its multi-tiered cascades and remote, serene setting, making it a favorite among hikers and nature enthusiasts.
The Setting
Shining Cloud Falls sits at 784 feet within Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, fed by the Presque Isle River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Shining Cloud Falls follows the Big Carp River Trail, which winds through dense forests and along the Big Carp River. The trail is rugged and may include uneven terrain, roots, and rocks. Hikers will encounter beautiful views of the river and surrounding wilderness before reaching the falls.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail involves steep, uneven terrain with significant elevation change and is not accessible to mobility devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Shining Cloud Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $9.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Shining Cloud Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
The best time to visit is late spring through early fall when the trail is more accessible, and the water flow is typically at its peak. Winter visits are possible but require snowshoes or skis and advanced preparation.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
The trail is remote and can be challenging. Hikers should be prepared for uneven terrain, changing weather, and potential wildlife encounters. Cell phone service may be limited or unavailable in the area.
Current Water Conditions
35 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 3 years of record
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average 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 PRESQUE ISLE RIVER NEAR CONNORVILLE, MI (10 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
36 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
35 cfs
4/10Tue
Barely Flowing
36 cfs
3/10Wed
Low
38 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
38 cfs
4/10Fri
Barely Flowing
35 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
34 cfs
5/10Best window: Fri — barely flowing flow, mostly 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 White Pine 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.
The bare-earth surface loses about 49 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 791 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 9 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 39 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing north, the falls stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 791 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 49 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- North
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading north).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Shining Cloud Falls is located within the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. The falls can be accessed via the Big Carp River Trail, which starts at the Lake of the Clouds parking area. The trail is remote and requires a hike through rugged terrain.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at the Lake of the Clouds parking area, which serves as the trailhead for the Big Carp River Trail.
Elevation
784 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.758002° N, -89.871555° W
Land Management
Managed by SPR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water and snacks. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as the area can be unpredictable. A map or GPS device is recommended due to the remote nature of the trail.
Where to Stay
Scott's Superior Inn and Cabins
Pet-Friendly Michigan Getaway with Porch and Kayaks!
Bergland Bay Bungalow
Walk to Lake Superior: Ontonagon Home w/ Fire Pit!
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 CAMPGROUND
10.4 miles away · 40 sites
Overview Planning a trip to the Black River Harbor Campground? Watch for Alerts at the top of the page for any Alerts regarding this facility. Black River Campground is adjacent to the Black River Harbor Recreation Area. The recreation area includes a pavilion, harbor and a large picnic area. The area provides for many opportunities for fishing, boating, backpacking, hiking, bird watching, photography and beautiful scenery for relaxation in the outdoors. Recreation The campground is adjacent to
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Lake of the Clouds, Summit Peak, and other trails within Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, black bears, and numerous bird species. Visitors should exercise caution and follow park guidelines for wildlife encounters.
Cities near Shining Cloud Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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