LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Upper Chocolay Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Upper Chocolay Falls
Upper Chocolay Falls is a tucked-away, scenic cascade on the Chocolay River just outside Marquette, Michigan. Framed by quiet hardwoods, the falls are a pleasant reward for hikers seeking a less-trafficked spot to enjoy the sights and sounds of flowing water in a peaceful woodland setting. The approach follows a 2.4-mile out-and-back route that climbs about 350 feet, so expect a moderately paced hike through shady forest. The route’s moderate rating makes it a good choice for hikers who want a short day-trip with a little workout and a scenic finish — bring sturdy shoes and you’ll be rewarded with a serene waterfall experience away from the crowds.
The Setting
Upper Chocolay Falls sits at 955 feet along the Middle Branch Escanaba River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Laughing Whitefish Falls, the tallest waterfall in Michigan at 100 feet, lies 9.1 miles to the east.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
This is a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. The path winds through wooded terrain and can include uneven footing, roots, and muddy sections after rain, so robust footwear is recommended. The trail’s length and gain make it suitable for most hikers who are comfortable with a moderate climb; plan on a steady but manageable pace to and from the falls.
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 Upper Chocolay Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Upper Chocolay Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting when water flow is at its peak. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter provides a unique frozen waterfall experience.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall. The trail may be muddy or icy depending on the season. Cell service may be limited in the area.
Current Water Conditions
80 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 58 years of record
1.52 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 MIDDLE BRANCH ESCANABA RIVER NR PRINCETON, MI (19 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
80 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
82 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
81 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
89 cfs
3/10Thu
Low
89 cfs
4/10Fri
Barely Flowing
84 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
94 cfs
3/10Best window: Tomorrow — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
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 K. I. Sawyer 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.
The bare-earth surface loses about 47 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 963 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 21 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 14 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing northwest, 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
- 963 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 47 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- 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 northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Upper Chocolay Falls is located off a dirt road near the Chocolay River. Access may require navigating unmarked paths or trails, so a map or GPS is recommended.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is limited and may involve roadside parking near the trailhead or access point.
Elevation
955 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.344444° N, -87.251667° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a map or GPS as the trail may not be well-marked. Wear sturdy shoes, especially after rain, as the trail can be muddy. Bug spray is recommended during warmer months.
Where to Stay
Days Inn by Wyndham Marquette
Comfort Suites Marquette
Holiday Inn Marquette by IHG
My Place Hotel-Marquette, MI
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
Au Train Lake Campground
20 miles away · 34 sites
Overview Located at the south end of AuTrain Lake, this campground is favored by anglers and outdoor enthusiasts. The quiet setting is great for family trips, and visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational opportunities year-round, all less than a day's drive from major urban areas of Michigan and Wisconsin.Recreation The large size of the lake provides miles of prime water skiing, boating, swimming and fishing. Anglers can expect a healthy catch of bass and a variety of perch. Canoeing is also
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Marquette, Michigan offers additional attractions such as Presque Isle Park, Sugarloaf Mountain, and other waterfalls like Dead River Falls.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of ticks and other insects during warmer months.
Cities near Upper Chocolay Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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