Silver River Falls waterfall

Silver River Falls

Michigan

By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026

LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
1.
2.
3.
rdwatson78 CC BY-NC 2.0 · Flickr
4.
rdwatson78 CC BY-NC 2.0 · Flickr
5.
Juan N Only CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 · Flickr

Difficulty

Easy

Trail Length

0.1 miles

Trail Type

Out And Back

About Silver River Falls

Silver River Falls is a picturesque waterfall located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, near the town of Eagle Harbor. It features a series of cascading drops along the Silver River, surrounded by lush forest scenery. The falls are relatively easy to access and are a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Nearby Falls Worth Visiting

Jacobs Falls (20 ft) lies 8.0 miles to the west.

Trail & Hike Details

Trail Description

The trail to Silver River Falls is very short and easy, making it accessible for most visitors. It is a dirt path that leads directly to the falls, with minimal elevation gain. The trail is surrounded by dense forest, offering a serene and peaceful atmosphere.

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 River Falls?

✅ Dogs are allowed

Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?

🆖 No fees required

🏊 Is There Swimming at Silver River Falls?

❌ Swimming is not allowed

When to Visit

spring summer fall

Spring and fall are the best times to visit due to higher water flow and stunning seasonal colors. Summer is also a good time, but the falls may have reduced flow.

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. Be aware of changing weather conditions, especially in winter when snow and ice can make the area hazardous.

Know when to go.

Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Eagle Harbor 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 50 feet of descent through Silver River Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 625 feet above sea level.

The ground changes about 37 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 10 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing north, the falls stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.

Aerial photo of the same ground around Silver River Falls near Eagle Harbor, Michigan, for comparison with the lidar view LiDAR bare-earth terrain around Silver River Falls near Eagle Harbor, Michigan, showing about 50 feet of drop, a steep tiered drop, facing north
Aerial LiDAR bare earth

Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.

Ground elevation
625 feet
Measured by 1-meter lidar
Drop at the falls
About 44 feet
Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Faces
North
Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
Ground profile through the falls

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

Silver River Falls is located off Highway 26, approximately 4 miles southeast of Eagle Harbor, Michigan. A short drive on a gravel road leads to the falls.

Get Directions on Google Maps

Parking

There is a small parking area near the falls, which is free to use. Parking may be limited during peak seasons.

Elevation

643 feet above sea level

Coordinates

47.463611° N, -88.072222° W

Visitor Tips & Gear

Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during peak seasons. Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy after rain. Bring a camera to capture the scenic beauty.

Additional Information

Nearby Attractions

Eagle Harbor Lighthouse, Brockway Mountain Drive, and other waterfalls in the Keweenaw Peninsula.

Wildlife

The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of mosquitoes and other insects during warmer months.

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