Slate River 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 Slate River Falls
Slate River Falls is a scenic cascade along the Slate River in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, set amid dense northern hardwoods and mossy outcrops. The falls tumble in a series of drops that reward photographers and day-hikers alike with changing vantage points and lush forest surrounds. The site sits within the Slate River Forest Reserve, a PCON-designated property managed by an NGO, which helps protect the watershed and maintain the natural character of the area.
The Setting
Slate River Falls sits at 732 feet within Slate River Forest Reserve, fed by the Silver River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The approach to Slate River Falls is a moderate out-and-back hike of about 2.4 miles round trip with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain. The trail is rated moderate; surface and formal USFS trail-class data are not provided, and the path can be uneven or muddy—especially after rain—so sturdy footwear is recommended. Expect a mostly forested route that climbs gently in places and rewards you with multiple viewpoints of the cascades.
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 Slate River Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Slate River Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit due to higher water levels.
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 spring and fall.
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 (6 km away).
Today
Low
16 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
19 cfs
5/10Tue
Low
25 cfs
4/10Wed
Moderate
29 cfs
5/10Thu
Moderate
20 cfs
5/10Fri
Low
20 cfs
6/10Sat
Low
25 cfs
6/10Best window: Today — low flow, partly sunny (trip score 6/10).
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 Skanee 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 151 feet of descent through Slate River Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 736 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 40 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 110 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face north and 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
- 736 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 151 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
Slate River Falls is located near L'Anse, Michigan. To access the falls, visitors typically drive along Skanee Road and then take a series of unpaved forest roads. The final approach may require a short hike along a trail.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but it may be limited and located on unpaved surfaces.
Elevation
732 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.830485° N, -88.251515° W
Land Management
Managed by NGO
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during spring or after heavy rainfall for the best water flow. Bring bug spray during summer months as mosquitoes can be prevalent. Be cautious of slippery rocks near the falls.
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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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other nearby attractions include Canyon Falls and the town of L'Anse, which offers dining and lodging options.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of ticks during warmer months.
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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