Sturgeon Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Sturgeon Falls
Sturgeon Falls is a picturesque waterfall located on the Sturgeon River in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. It is known for its cascading waters and scenic surroundings, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
The Setting
Sturgeon Falls sits at 912 feet within Ottawa National Forest, fed by the Sturgeon River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy hike follows Sturgeon Falls (#60017), a 1.5-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
STURGEON FALLS #60017
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.80 miTrail Description
The trail to Sturgeon Falls is a relatively short and easy hike through a forested area. The path is well-marked and leads to a viewing area near the falls. Visitors may encounter some uneven terrain, but the trail is generally manageable for most skill levels.
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 Sturgeon Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Sturgeon Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit Sturgeon 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. Check with Ottawa National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the falls as rocks can be slippery. Be aware of changing weather conditions and avoid visiting during heavy rain or snowstorms.
Current Water Conditions
108 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 92 years of record
3.79 ft
Water depth at gauge
59°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle. Water temperature is a bracing 59 degrees F, limit your time in the water.
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 STURGEON RIVER NEAR ALSTON, MI (10 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
108 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
106 cfs
4/10Tue
Low
115 cfs
4/10Wed
Low
117 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
125 cfs
4/10Fri
Low
114 cfs
6/10Sat
Low
118 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 mid 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 Pelkie 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 93 feet of drop in the ground within a few hundred feet of Sturgeon Falls. The brink sits at about 907 feet above sea level.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 907 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 93 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
Sturgeon Falls is located within the Ottawa National Forest in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The falls can be accessed via Forest Road 2200 and a short hike from the parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but availability may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
912 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.642317° N, -88.693123° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear as the trail may be muddy or slippery, especially after rain. Bring insect repellent during summer months to protect against mosquitoes. Arrive early during peak seasons to secure parking.
Where to Stay
Two Rivers Motel and Cabins of Kenton, MI
Tiny Woodland Cottage Retreat with Yard in Pelkie
UP Escape in the Pines
Jake's Bed & Bar
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
Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness
1.7 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
Other attractions in the Ottawa National Forest include Bond Falls and Agate Falls, as well as numerous hiking trails and scenic viewpoints.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and occasionally black bears. Visitors should exercise caution and follow wildlife safety guidelines.
Cities near Sturgeon Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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Other waterfalls named Sturgeon Falls
2 other waterfalls share this name across the U.S.
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