LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Upper East Tumbo River Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
1.0 miles
Elevation Gain
200 ft
About Upper East Tumbo River Falls
Upper East Tumbo River Falls is a quietly scenic cascade tucked into the Ottawa National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The falls drop through a series of small steps framed by dense Upper Peninsula forest, offering a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience for hikers who appreciate solitude and seasonal light on the water. The site’s forested setting and modest approach make it a great half-day outing for photographers and nature lovers looking to escape busier parks. Access to the falls is via USFS route NFST-T3653-E3 (Trail #T3653-E3). The hike is moderate: roughly 1.0 mile round-trip with about 200 feet of elevation gain, so expect a short but rewarding climb through native forest tread. If you’re planning an overnight, the Kenton Ranger District campground is nearby—about 7.87 km from the falls—making it convenient to combine the visit with camping in the Ottawa National Forest.
The Setting
Upper East Tumbo River Falls sits at 1,398 feet within Ottawa National Forest, fed by the Middle Branch Ontonagon River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate hike follows Nfst T3653 E3 (#T3653-E3), a 1.0-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. Expect 200 feet of elevation gain with grades of 0-5%. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
NFST-T3653-E3 #T3653-E3
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.11 miTrail Description
USFS records list the access as NFST-T3653-E3 (Trail #T3653-E3). The trail is classified as Class 3 with a surface of native material; typical grade is 0–5%. GIS mapping shows a mapped segment of 0.11 miles, while commonly reported route length is about 1.0 mile with approximately 200 feet of elevation gain and a moderate difficulty rating. Expect natural tread (roots, rocks, and organic surface); the Class 3 rating indicates sections where footing can be uneven and may require careful scrambling or use of hands for balance. Sturdy footwear and basic navigation awareness are recommended.
What to Expect
Visitors can expect a peaceful and secluded experience, with the sound of cascading water and the surrounding forest providing a serene atmosphere. The falls are not heavily trafficked, making it an ideal spot for those seeking solitude.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Upper East Tumbo River Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Upper East Tumbo River Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal times to visit, as the water flow is typically strongest due to snowmelt and rainfall. Fall offers beautiful foliage, while winter may provide a unique frozen waterfall experience for those prepared for cold weather.
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
Visitors should exercise caution when navigating unmarked trails and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Cell service may be limited, so inform someone of your plans before visiting. Watch for slippery rocks near the falls.
Current Water Conditions
88 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 78 years of record
4.08 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 ONTONAGON RIVER NEAR PAULDING, MI (14 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
88 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
87 cfs
4/10Tue
Low
93 cfs
4/10Wed
Low
94 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
94 cfs
4/10Fri
Low
88 cfs
6/10Sat
Low
93 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 Bruce Crossing 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 52 feet through the falls, but gradually, the profile of a cascade rather than a plunge. The ground at the falls is roughly 1,398 feet above sea level.
The ground is already steep on the way in, falling about 69 feet in the 500 feet above the pin, and levels out below the falls. The falls face southwest and sit in full sun for most of the day, best photographed early or late.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,398 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 52 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Sunlit most of the day. Go early or late for softer light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
The waterfall is located in a remote area of Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Access typically requires navigating unpaved forest roads, and a high-clearance vehicle may be necessary depending on conditions. Exact directions are not well-documented, so visitors should consult local maps or GPS coordinates before attempting to visit.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is limited and may consist of roadside pull-offs or small clearings near the trailhead. Visitors should ensure they are not blocking access roads.
Elevation
1,398 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.416389° N, -88.908889° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring a detailed map or GPS device as the trail is not well-marked. Wear sturdy hiking boots and be prepared for muddy or uneven terrain. Check weather and road conditions before visiting, as access roads may be impassable during wet or snowy conditions.
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With 1.0 miles and 200 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Where to Stay
Two Rivers Motel and Cabins of Kenton, MI
AmericInn by Wyndham Iron River
Phelps Cabin on 26 Acres with Fire Pit!
Lakeshore Motel Ice Lake
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
Kenton Ranger District
4.9 miles away · 0 sites
The Kenton Ranger District is the largest and oldest district on the Ottawa, dating back to 1931, when the forest had only one district. The recreation program includes a wide variety of dispersed activities including hunting, fishing, remote camping and hiking including two wildernesses, snowmobiling on numerous maintained trails, recreational driving with a variety of potential destinations including lakes, waterfalls and other scenic attractions. Developed recreation includes 7 campgrounds (3
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other waterfalls and natural attractions in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, such as Tahquamenon Falls and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Cities near Upper East Tumbo River Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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