Strong Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Strong Falls
Strong Falls tumbles along the Peshtigo River inside Goodman Park, set within the Marinette County Forest and managed by Marinette County as a designated LCA. The falls present a series of scenic cascades framed by forested riverbanks, making the site a rewarding stop for photographers and hikers looking for a relatively short but atmospheric riverside outing. Access is via a 2.4-mile out-and-back hike that climbs roughly 350 feet and is commonly rated moderate in difficulty — a satisfying half-day option for visitors comfortable with some uphill walking. The nearest developed camping is at Bear Lake Campground in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, about 13.6 km away, so most visitors treat Strong Falls as a day trip from nearby towns or dispersed sites on county lands.
The Setting
Strong Falls sits at 1,201 feet within Marinette County Forest, fed by the Peshtigo River, in the foothills of Wisconsin.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Trail to Strong Falls: 2.4 miles round-trip (out-and-back) with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain; difficulty: moderate. The route follows a county-managed path through Marinette County Forest lands to a viewing area near the cascades. Specific USFS trail number, formal surface, grade, and technical class ratings are not provided for this county trail.
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 Strong Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🤑 Fee: $5.00
🏊 Is There Swimming at Strong Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit Strong Falls due to higher water flow. Fall offers stunning foliage, while winter provides a unique view of the frozen falls.
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. Stay on designated trails and avoid getting too close to the water's edge.
Current Water Conditions
168 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 27 years of record
3.77 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual 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 PESHTIGO RIVER NEAR WABENO, WI (15 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
168 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
163 cfs
4/10Tue
Barely Flowing
161 cfs
4/10Wed
Low
166 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
182 cfs
4/10Fri
Low
171 cfs
6/10Sat
Low
175 cfs
4/10Best window: Fri — low flow, mostly sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to late June, 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 Goodman 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 18 feet of drop in the ground within a few hundred feet of Strong Falls. The brink sits at about 1,196 feet above sea level.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,196 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 18 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Strong Falls is located within Goodman Park in Marinette County, Wisconsin. The park is accessible by car, and the falls are a short walk from the parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a designated parking area within Goodman Park, close to the trailhead leading to the falls.
Elevation
1,201 feet above sea level
Coordinates
45.518018° N, -88.339837° W
Land Management
Managed by CNTY
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the area near the falls may be slippery. Bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery. Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds.
Where to Stay
Four Seasons Island Resort
Crivitz Lodge
Crandon Inn & Suites
Exxon Quik Stop & Motel
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
Bear Lake Campground (Chequamegon-Nicolet NF, WI)
8.4 miles away · 27 sites
Overview If you are interested in a quiet campground and excellent pike fishing, Bear Lake Campground is for you. Campsites are situated along the wooded shore and ridge with outstanding views of the lake.Recreation The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest has an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities. Those most enjoyed at Bear Lake are fishing, swimming, kayaking, and canoeing. The Rat River trail is a good nearby hiking opportunity.Facilities Bear Lake Campground has 27 sites. A majority
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other attractions in the area include Goodman Park's picnic areas, hiking trails, and nearby waterfalls such as Twelve Foot Falls.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Keep an eye out for bald eagles near the river.
Cities near Strong Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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