Traders Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Oct 2026
3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
About Traders Falls
Traders Falls is a quiet, lesser-known cascade tucked into the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, offering a peaceful roadside-style setting framed by dense northern hardwood forest. The fall's modest drop and secluded feel make it a favorite for hikers and photographers looking for a serene stop away from busier spots. Because it's off the beaten path, visits often feel intimate — bring your camera and a bit of patience to enjoy the view in solitude. The falls and access trail sit on land owned by SDNR and are managed as a state park (designation SP) by SPR. The nearest developed camping is Black River Harbor Campground, approximately 14.87 km away, so overnight options require a short drive from the trailhead.
The Setting
Traders Falls sits at 659 feet within Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The provided data does not include formal USFS trail surface, grade, or class specifications for this route. Hikers should expect natural forest tread with some steady climbing over the course of the out-and-back approach to the falls. The trail and waterfall lie within Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park (land owner: SDNR; manager/designation: SPR).
What to Expect
Expect a quiet and natural setting with a small waterfall surrounded by forest. The area may be less crowded compared to more popular waterfalls in Michigan.
Accessibility
Accessibility information is not available. The trail may not be suitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Traders Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Traders Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Traders Falls, as water flow is typically higher during these seasons. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may provide a unique frozen waterfall experience.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Safety Information
The trail may be unmarked or uneven, so visitors should exercise caution. Be aware of slippery rocks near the waterfall and avoid visiting during severe weather.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Presque Isle River, 5.4 miles away, not on Traders Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
87 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 3 years of record
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average 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 PRESQUE ISLE RIVER NEAR CONNORVILLE, MI (9 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
91 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Low
86 cfs
4/10Sat
Barely Flowing
75 cfs
4/10Sun
Barely Flowing
67 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
65 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
64 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
64 cfs
5/10Best window: Sun — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to mid 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 White Pine hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is Traders Falls Frozen?
Updated about 22 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately north-facing, shaded
Traders Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 56°F to 42°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 88 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in Michigan.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain Around Traders 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
Traders Falls is located in Michigan, but specific directions to the site are not widely documented. Visitors are encouraged to consult local maps or guides for the most accurate route.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is unclear. Visitors should prepare for limited or informal parking options near the trailhead.
Elevation
659 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.751057° N, -89.894334° W
Land Management
Managed by SPR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a map or GPS device as the trail may not be well-marked. Wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for potentially muddy or uneven terrain.
Where to Stay
Scott's Superior Inn and Cabins
Pet-Friendly Michigan Getaway with Porch and Kayaks!
Bergland Bay Bungalow
Walk to Lake Superior: Ontonagon Home w/ Fire Pit!
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
BLACK RIVER HARBOR CAMPGROUND
9.2 miles away · 40 sites
Overview Planning a trip to the Black River Harbor Campground? Watch for Alerts at the top of the page for any Alerts regarding this facility. Black River Campground is adjacent to the Black River Harbor Recreation Area. The recreation area includes a pavilion, harbor and a large picnic area. The area provides for many opportunities for fishing, boating, backpacking, hiking, bird watching, photography and beautiful scenery for relaxation in the outdoors. Recreation The campground is adjacent to
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other waterfalls and natural attractions in Michigan may be nearby, but specific recommendations are not documented.
Wildlife
The area may host typical Michigan wildlife such as deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Cities near Traders Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
Writing about Traders Falls? Embed this waterfall on your site for free.