Warner Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Warner Falls
Warner Falls is a small, picturesque waterfall located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. It is known for its serene surroundings and is a lesser-known destination, making it a peaceful spot for visitors seeking solitude.
The Setting
Warner Falls sits at 1,237 feet along the Schweitzer Creek, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
The trail to Warner Falls is short and relatively flat, making it suitable for most visitors. It passes through a wooded area and leads directly to the waterfall. The path may be uneven in places, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
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 Warner Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Warner Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons.
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 prepared for changing weather conditions, especially in spring and fall.
Current Water Conditions
6 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 65 years of record
2.89 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge SCHWEITZER CREEK NEAR PALMER, MI (3 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
6 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
6 cfs
4/10Mon
Barely Flowing
6 cfs
5/10Tue
Barely Flowing
6 cfs
5/10Wed
Low
7 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
7 cfs
4/10Fri
Low
7 cfs
4/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, sunny (trip score 5/10).
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 Palmer 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 measures about 68 feet of descent through Warner Falls, a steep tiered drop rather than a single free fall. The brink sits at about 1,238 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 11 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 28 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face south 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
- 1,238 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 68 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- South
- 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 south).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Warner Falls is located near the town of Munising in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. It is accessible via local roads, but specific directions may vary depending on the starting point. Visitors are advised to use GPS or consult local maps for accurate navigation.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking availability is limited and may consist of roadside pull-offs or small parking areas near the trailhead.
Elevation
1,237 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.433333° N, -87.598889° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Visit during spring or after heavy rains for the best water flow. Bring bug spray during summer months as mosquitoes can be prevalent. Be cautious of slippery rocks near the waterfall.
Where to Stay
Days Inn by Wyndham Marquette
Holiday Inn Marquette by IHG
My Place Hotel-Marquette, MI
Staybridge Suites Marquette by IHG
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.
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include Munising Falls, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, and Wagner Falls.
Wildlife
The area is home to various wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Be cautious of ticks during warmer months.
Cities near Warner Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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