West Branch Sturgeon Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (2)
Difficulty
Easy
Trail Length
1.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About West Branch Sturgeon Falls
West Branch Sturgeon Falls is a peaceful, rocky cascade tucked into the Ottawa National Forest and managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The falls offer a quiet, photogenic setting framed by mixed forest — a great stop for hikers who enjoy rugged, natural scenery without a long approach. Access to the falls follows a short USFS-designated route (NFST-1657-B1 / Trail #T1657-B1), which keeps the experience feeling off the beaten path while remaining easy to reach for day visitors. The forest surroundings invite a slow-paced visit to enjoy the sound of tumbling water and the seasonal colors of the understory. Because the falls lie on National Forest land, visitors should practice Leave No Trace principles and be prepared for native trails and natural footing underfoot.
The Setting
West Branch Sturgeon Falls sits at 958 feet within Ottawa National Forest, fed by the Sturgeon River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The easy hike follows Nfst 1657 B1 (#T1657-B1), a 1.5-mile out-and-back trail over natural surface. The trail is developed (Class 3).
USFS Trail
NFST-1657-B1 #T1657-B1
Trail Class
Developed
Surface
Avg Grade
USFS Segment
0.21 miTrail Description
The approach to West Branch Sturgeon Falls is an out-and-back route of about 2.4 miles round trip with roughly 350 feet of elevation gain; the USFS rates the hike as moderate. The signed USFS trail is NFST-1657-B1 (Trail #T1657-B1) and is classified Class 3, with a surface of native material and a typical grade of 0–5%. USFS GIS data shows a mapped segment near the falls of 0.21 miles; expect natural tread, some uneven or rocky sections, and a few short grades rather than sustained steep climbs. Sturdy footwear is recommended, and the trail is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace to take in the surrounding forest and streamside views.
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 Sturgeon Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at West Branch Sturgeon 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. Fall offers stunning foliage, while winter provides a unique view of the frozen falls.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited. Check with Ottawa National Forest for seasonal road closures.
Safety Information
Visitors should be cautious near the falls, as the rocks can be slippery. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and carry a map or GPS device, as cell service may be limited.
Current Water Conditions
108 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 92 years of record
3.79 ft
Water depth at gauge
59°F
ColdBracing — limit time in water
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle. Water temperature is a bracing 59 degrees F, limit your time 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 STURGEON RIVER NEAR ALSTON, MI (10 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
108 cfs
4/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
106 cfs
4/10Tue
Low
115 cfs
4/10Wed
Low
117 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
125 cfs
4/10Fri
Low
114 cfs
6/10Sat
Barely Flowing
109 cfs
5/10Best window: Fri — low flow, mostly sunny (trip score 6/10).
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 Pelkie 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.
Here the descent is spread out: 1-meter lidar measures about 73 feet of drop through West Branch Sturgeon Falls, stretched along the creek rather than stacked in one wall. The brink sits at about 964 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 2 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 55 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing northeast, the falls catch soft morning light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 964 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 73 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northeast
- Catches soft morning light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northeast).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
West Branch Sturgeon Falls is located in the Ottawa National Forest in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Access typically involves driving on forest roads, which may be unpaved and rough in some areas. Visitors should check local maps and conditions before heading out.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at a nearby trailhead or designated area, but spaces may be limited. Visitors should plan accordingly.
Elevation
958 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.722436° N, -88.788470° W
Land Management
Managed by USFS
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring insect repellent during the summer months, as mosquitoes and other insects can be prevalent. Check road and trail conditions before visiting, especially during the spring thaw or after heavy rains.
Where to Stay
Two Rivers Motel and Cabins of Kenton, MI
Tiny Woodland Cottage Retreat with Yard in Pelkie
UP Escape in the Pines
Sandy Hollow
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
8.4 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 in Michigan's Upper Peninsula.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and occasionally black bears. Visitors should exercise caution and follow wildlife safety guidelines.
Cities near West Branch Sturgeon Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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