Upper Silver River Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Mar 2026
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.8 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
120 ft
About Upper Silver River Falls
Upper Silver River Falls is a serene, forest-framed cascade on the Silver River in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The falls sit amid mature northern hardwoods and create a peaceful setting that’s perfect for a quick nature break or photography stop. The hike to the viewing area is short and family-friendly: a 0.8-mile out-and-back route that climbs roughly 120 feet, making it an easy outing for most visitors. Because the trail is brief and mostly gentle, Upper Silver River Falls is a popular choice for hikers looking for a rewarding destination without a long trek. The path threads through shaded woods to a close vantage point of the falls; expect some uneven footing and roots near the stream. The nearest established campground is the Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness campground, about 29.83 km away, if you’re planning a longer stay in the region.
The Setting
Upper Silver River Falls sits at 1,703 feet along the Falls River, in the hills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 0.8-mile out-and-back trail gains 120 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Out-and-back, 0.8 miles round trip with about 120 feet of elevation gain. Rated easy, the trail follows a short forested route to the waterfall and is suitable for most fitness levels. Expect a primarily natural tread that can be uneven in places (roots and rocks), and wear sturdy shoes for traction. The hike’s modest grade makes it accessible for families and casual hikers seeking a quick hike to a scenic waterfall.
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 Silver River Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Upper Silver River Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for viewing the falls at their fullest. Fall offers stunning 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
The trail may be slippery, especially after rain or during winter. Exercise caution near the water's edge, as rocks can be slick. Always let someone know your plans if visiting remote areas.
Current Water Conditions
64 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 11 years of record
4.61 ft
Water depth at gauge
56°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is a bracing 56 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 (12 km away).
Today
Roaring
73 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Strong
56 cfs
10/10Sun
Strong
55 cfs
8/10Mon
Roaring
60 cfs
6/10Tue
Roaring
74 cfs
6/10Wed
Roaring
85 cfs
6/10Thu
Roaring
62 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 River Falls is located near the town of Baraga in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. It can be accessed via forest roads, but the exact route may require local maps or GPS guidance.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is typically available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited. Visitors should check local conditions before visiting.
Elevation
1,703 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.674250° N, -88.316483° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during the spring or after heavy rains for the most impressive water flow. Bring bug spray during the summer months, as mosquitoes can be prevalent. Winter visits may require snowshoes or traction devices due to icy conditions.
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For this easy 0.8 miles trail, lightweight trail shoes and a water bottle are usually sufficient. 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.
JOBY GorillaPod Starter Kit
Wraps around railings and rocks for long-exposure waterfall shots — no flat surface needed.
Osprey Daylite Daypack
Light, organized, and just the right size for a day hike — fits water, snacks, and layers.
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
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Nearby Campground
Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness
18.5 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 waterfalls in the area include Lower Silver River Falls and Canyon Falls. The nearby town of Baraga offers amenities and additional outdoor activities.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Be cautious of bears, especially during the spring and fall.
Cities near Upper Silver River Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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