West Branch Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.2 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
150 ft
About West Branch Falls
West Branch Falls is a small but scenic waterfall located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. It is part of the West Branch of the Escanaba River and is surrounded by lush forest, making it a peaceful spot for nature enthusiasts.
Nearby Falls Worth Visiting
Big Erick's Falls (10 ft) lies 1.9 miles to the north.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy 1.2-mile out-and-back trail gains 150 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to West Branch Falls is short and relatively flat, making it suitable for most visitors. It winds through a wooded area and leads directly to the waterfall. The path may be uneven in some places, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
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 West Branch Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at West Branch Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for visiting, 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
Water temperature is currently 42°F — cold enough to cause numbness quickly. Avoid prolonged water contact and use caution near the falls.
The trail may be slippery after rain, and visitors should exercise caution near the water. Be aware of ticks and other insects in the area.
Current Water Conditions
These readings come from the USGS gauge on Salmon Trout River, 10.8 miles away, not on West Branch Falls's own stream. Use them as a sign of whether the area is running wet or dry.
5 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 21 years of record
0.38 ft
Water depth at gauge
42°F
Very coldExpect numbness within minutes
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year. Water temperature is very cold at 42 degrees F, expect numbness within minutes.
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 SALMON TROUT RIVER NEAR BIG BAY, MI (17 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
5/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
6 cfs
3/10Thu
Low
7 cfs
4/10Fri
Low
6 cfs
4/10Sat
Low
6 cfs
4/10Sun
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
5/10Mon
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — barely flowing flow, mostly 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 Skanee hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Is West Branch Falls Frozen?
Updated about 8 hours agoNot frozen highs above freezing lately
West Branch Falls is not frozen right now; highs have been above freezing. Yesterday ran 52°F to 33°F.
- Days below freezing
- 0 of the last 14
- Current cold streak
- 0 days
- Freezing days ahead
- 0 of the next 7
- Flow
- 5 ft³/s
Winter safety. Frozen falls are the one waterfall trip with a documented injury pattern: falling ice, and ice-glazed rock and trail. Wear microspikes, keep well back from the base and from overhangs, and never walk out on ice over moving water.
Estimate from Open-Meteo daily temperatures at the falls, the LiDAR-measured facing direction, and the nearest stream gauge. It is a likelihood, not a report from the trail. See every frozen waterfall in Michigan.
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 ground through the falls loses about 64 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 899 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 8 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 52 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
- 899 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 64 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
West Branch Falls is located near Gwinn, Michigan, in Marquette County. It can be accessed via local roads, but specific directions may vary depending on the starting point. Visitors should consult a reliable map or GPS for guidance.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available near the trailhead, but spaces may be limited. Visitors should plan accordingly.
Elevation
899 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.838816° N, -88.089849° 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. Wear sturdy shoes, as the trail may be uneven.
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This easy 1.2 miles hike is straightforward — comfortable trail shoes and plenty of water should do. 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
Independence Stay Hotel and Long term suites
AC4 Northwoods Getaway w Jetted Tub
UP Escape in the Pines
Lakefront Lookout! Private Sand Beach on Superior
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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Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby attractions include the Escanaba River and other waterfalls in the Upper Peninsula, such as Dead River Falls and Yellow Dog Falls.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors should be cautious of ticks and other insects.
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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