Upper Silver Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
2.4 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
350 ft
About Upper Silver Falls
Upper Silver Falls is a peaceful cascade on the Silver River in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, set within the L'Anse Reservation. The falls sit on land owned by DESG and are managed by tribal authorities (designation: TRIB), giving the site a secluded, forested character that rewards visitors looking for a quiet nature escape. Views of the river and the surrounding hardwoods make this a lovely spot for photography or a reflective pause. The hike to the falls is a moderate outing of about 2.4 miles round-trip with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain, following the river through woodland terrain. There isn’t a developed campground immediately nearby—the closest developed camping is in the Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness, about 29.06 km away—so plan accordingly. Visitors should respect tribal land and any posted access guidelines while enjoying the trail and waterfall.
The Setting
Upper Silver Falls sits at 1,437 feet within L'Anse Reservation, fed by the Falls River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 2.4-mile out-and-back trail gains 350 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Upper Silver Falls is an out-and-back route of approximately 2.4 miles round-trip with about 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. The route follows forested tread along the Silver River on the L'Anse Reservation (land owner: DESG; manager/designation: TRIB). Specific USFS trail name/number, surface, grade, and class information are not provided in the available data, so expect a natural, unpaved trail and come prepared for typical woodland footing and small elevation changes.
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 Upper Silver Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Upper Silver Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, as the waterfall is typically at its fullest 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, especially in winter when the trail may be icy.
Current Water Conditions
73 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Higher than usual for this time of year
Based on 11 years of record
4.68 ft
Water depth at gauge
58°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
The water is flowing higher than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is a bracing 58 degrees F, limit your time in the water. Mineral content is typical.
Water Quality
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 FALLS RIVER NEAR L'ANSE, MI (10 km away).
Today
Roaring
83 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Strong
64 cfs
10/10Sun
Strong
63 cfs
8/10Mon
Roaring
69 cfs
6/10Tue
Roaring
84 cfs
6/10Wed
Roaring
97 cfs
6/10Thu
Roaring
70 cfs
6/10Best window: Tomorrow — strong flow, sunny (trip score 10/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from mid March to late 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 L'Anse hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Upper Silver Falls is located near the town of Baraga in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. It can be accessed via a short drive from US-41, followed by a gravel road leading to the trailhead.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area near the trailhead, but space may be limited during peak seasons.
Elevation
1,437 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.682216° N, -88.329500° W
Land Management
Managed by TRIB
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be muddy or slippery, especially after rain. Bring insect repellent during the summer months to protect against mosquitoes.
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With 2.4 miles and 350 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.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
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.
Where to Stay
UP Escape in the Pines
Whole home, private lake, sauna, WFH office
Champion Vacation Rental with Fire Pit!
Tiny Woodland Cottage Retreat with Yard in Pelkie
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
18.1 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 nearby attractions include Lower Silver Falls, Canyon Falls, and the Keweenaw Bay area.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of ticks during warmer months.
Cities near Upper Silver Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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