Upper Sturgeon Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Upper Sturgeon Falls
Upper Sturgeon Falls is a scenic cascade on the Sturgeon River tucked into the Ottawa National Forest. The falls tumble over rocky ledges, offering a picturesque plunge that’s especially dramatic during spring runoff. Visitors come for the peaceful riverside setting and classic Upper Peninsula forest views. The falls lie within the Sturgeon, Michigan (Ottawa) Wild and Scenic River Study Area (designation: WSR) and are managed by the U.S. Forest Service; land ownership is listed as DESG. The site is a pleasant half-day outing for hikers exploring this USFS-managed river corridor, with a short trail bringing you to an accessible viewpoint of the cascades.
The Setting
Upper Sturgeon Falls sits at 1,732 feet within Sturgeon, Michigan (Ottawa) Wild And Scenic River Study Area, fed by the Falls River, in the hills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Upper Sturgeon Falls is a 2.4-mile out-and-back route with about 350 feet of elevation gain and is rated moderate. It follows a forested course on USFS-managed land in the Ottawa National Forest, is reasonably well-marked, and leads to a defined viewing area above the falls. Expect steady but manageable climbs on the return; the hike is suitable for hikers prepared for a moderate backcountry walk rather than a flat stroll.
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 Sturgeon Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Upper Sturgeon Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring is the best time to visit, as the falls are most impressive with higher water flow. Summer and fall are also great for hiking and enjoying the surrounding forest.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Visitors should exercise caution near the falls, as the rocks can be slippery. Be aware of changing weather conditions and carry a map or GPS device, as cell service may be limited.
Current Water Conditions
18 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 12 years of record
4.04 ft
Water depth at gauge
51°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is lower than usual for this time of year. Water temperature is a bracing 51 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 (17 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
18 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
18 cfs
4/10Tue
Barely Flowing
16 cfs
5/10Wed
Barely Flowing
19 cfs
3/10Thu
Low
17 cfs
4/10Fri
Barely Flowing
15 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
18 cfs
3/10Best window: Tue — barely flowing flow, partly sunny (trip score 5/10).
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 Three Lakes 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 56 feet through Upper Sturgeon Falls over a long run of ledges. Elevation at the pin is about 1,730 feet.
The ground changes about 40 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 30 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face northwest and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,730 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 56 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
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 Sturgeon Falls is located in the Ottawa National Forest, Michigan. Access is typically via forest roads, which may require a high-clearance vehicle depending on conditions. Visitors should check with the Ottawa National Forest office for the most up-to-date directions and road conditions.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited. Visitors should plan to arrive early during peak seasons.
Elevation
1,732 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.617666° N, -88.293000° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy shoes as the trail may be uneven in some areas. Bring insect repellent during the summer months, as mosquitoes can be prevalent. Check weather conditions before visiting, as the trail may be muddy after rain.
Where to Stay
Whole home, private lake, sauna, WFH office
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Nearby Campground
Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness
19.3 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 Ottawa National Forest, hiking trails, and scenic drives.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of black bears, which are occasionally spotted in the region.
Cities near Upper Sturgeon Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
Aerial
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