Silver Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Silver Falls
Silver Falls is a picturesque waterfall on the Silver River in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, a short drive from the town of Baraga. Cascading through a quiet, forested canyon, the falls are a favorite for photographers and hikers who appreciate a peaceful, scenic stop amid northern hardwoods. The falls sit within the L'Anse Reservation — owned by DESG and managed by TRIB — so visitors should be mindful that this is tribal land and follow any posted rules or access guidance. There are no developed campgrounds immediately nearby; the closest listed campground is Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness, roughly 33.8 km away, so most visitors plan Silver Falls as a day hike.
The Setting
Silver Falls sits at 696 feet within L'Anse Reservation, fed by the Silver River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Silver Falls is an out-and-back approximately 2.4 miles round trip with about 350 feet of elevation gain and is typically rated moderate. The route follows a forest footpath that winds to the falls; official surface, grade, and trail class data are not specified. Expect natural tread that can be muddy or slippery after rain, so sturdy footwear and steady footing are recommended.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
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 Silver Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Silver Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Silver Falls, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the falls, as rocks can be slippery. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially in the fall and winter.
Current Water Conditions
16 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 24 years of record
6.28 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge SILVER RIVER NEAR L'ANSE, MI (2 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
15 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
19 cfs
4/10Tue
Barely Flowing
24 cfs
3/10Wed
Low
28 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
19 cfs
4/10Fri
Barely Flowing
19 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
24 cfs
5/10Best window: Fri — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to late May, 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 Zeba hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain Around Silver Falls
High-resolution lidar hasn't been flown here yet, so this is the aerial view of the ground around the falls. Open the 3D view to tilt and spin the landscape.
The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Silver Falls is located approximately 8 miles east of Baraga, Michigan. Visitors can access the falls via Skanee Road, followed by a short drive on a gravel road leading to the trailhead.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but space may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
696 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.792709° N, -88.336517° W
Land Management
Managed by TRIB
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit in the spring or after heavy rains for the most impressive water flow. Bring sturdy shoes, as the trail can be muddy. Bug spray is recommended during the summer months.
Where to Stay
Independence Stay Hotel and Long term suites
Trailside Furnished Apartment
AC4 Northwoods Getaway w Jetted Tub
UP Escape in the Pines
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
Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness
21 miles away · 0 sites
The Wild and Scenic Sturgeon River rushes out of the northern portion of this wilderness, over the 20 foot volcanic outcroppings of Sturgeon Falls, and through a gorge that reaches 350 feet in depth and a mile in width. Throughout this rugged, steep Wilderness, the Sturgeon and Little Silver Rivers and their tributaries have carved falls, rapids, ponds, oxbows, and terraces. Stunning views are possible from the eastern rim of the gorge. Except for a few naturally bare slopes, most of the land is
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Baraga State Park, Mount Arvon (Michigan's highest point), and the Keweenaw Bay.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious of mosquitoes and other insects during warmer months.
Cities near Silver Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Aerial
Other waterfalls named Silver Falls
16 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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