Trap 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 Trap Falls
Trap Falls sits within the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, a protected unit owned by SDNR and managed under SPR. Tucked into the Porkies’ famously rugged landscape, the falls offer a peaceful woodland setting that complements the park’s old-growth northern hardwoods and proximity to Lake Superior — a hallmark of the state park’s scenery. The waterfall is a rewarding destination for hikers who want a scenic payoff without a long backcountry commitment. The route to Trap Falls is an out-and-back that travels through mature forest and offers classic Porkies’ vistas: mossy rocks, hardwood canopy, and seasonal water flow that swells in spring and after rains. Expect a moderate hike with some uneven footing; sturdy shoes and standard trail precautions will make the experience more enjoyable. Because the falls lie inside the state park, visitors should follow Leave No Trace practices and any site-specific rules posted by park staff.
The Setting
Trap Falls sits at 1,312 feet within Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, fed by the Presque Isle River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
This is a moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back hike with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain. The trail threads through forested terrain and can be uneven in spots, so expect roots, rocks, and short grades rather than a paved surface. Difficulty is rated moderate; the route is suitable for hikers comfortable with a few steady climbs and uneven footing. Bring sturdy footwear, water, and be prepared for variable trail conditions depending on season.
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 Trap Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Trap Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting Trap Falls, as water flow is typically higher due to snowmelt and rainfall.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the waterfall, as rocks can be slippery. Be aware of changing weather conditions and carry a map or GPS device if exploring the area further.
Current Water Conditions
36 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 3 years of record
5.28 ft
Water depth at gauge
63°F
CoolRefreshing for swimming
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is a refreshing 63 degrees F, good for a quick swim. Expect excellent dissolved oxygen levels. Mineral content is typical.
Water Quality
Dissolved Oxygen
ExcellentSupports aquatic life
Conductance
Dissolved minerals 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 PRESQUE ISLE RIVER NEAR CONNORVILLE, MI (24 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
36 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
36 cfs
5/10Sun
Barely Flowing
38 cfs
3/10Mon
Barely Flowing
37 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
38 cfs
3/10Wed
Low
40 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
40 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
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.
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 shows the creek losing roughly 55 feet through Trap Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 1,311 feet.
The ground changes about 46 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 8 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing northeast, the falls 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
- 1,311 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 55 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- 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 northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Trap Falls is located near the Black River Scenic Byway in the Ottawa National Forest. Visitors can access the falls by following forest roads, with signage typically guiding the way.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but availability may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
1,312 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.791613° N, -89.690713° W
Land Management
Managed by SPR
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during summer and fall. Bring insect repellent during warmer months, as mosquitoes can be present.
Where to Stay
Bergland Bay Bungalow
Scott's Superior Inn and Cabins
Pet-Friendly Michigan Getaway with Porch and Kayaks!
AJ's Lodge and Oven
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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Nearby Campground
Ontonagon Ranger District
18.5 miles away · 0 sites
Ontonagon Ranger District is on the shores of Lake Superior, largest of the Great Lakes, and the mouth of the Ontonagon River. There are numerous outdoor recreational opportunities. Hunting, fishing, swimming, hiking, boating, and ATV riding are available in the summer and fall months. In the winter downhill, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing are available.
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
The Black River Scenic Byway features several other waterfalls, including Rainbow Falls and Sandstone Falls. The area also offers hiking trails and scenic overlooks.
Wildlife
The surrounding forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious of black bears, which may be present in the area.
Cities near Trap Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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