Marquette, Michigan is rich in wild rivers and waterfalls. From small, single-drops to massive, multi-tiered, Marquette has all sorts of waterfalls. It is one of my favorite places to jump on the trails and visit some of these gems.
Morgan Creek Falls
Morgan Creek Falls is a beautiful 20-foot waterfall that empties into a shallow pool before flowing out into the much larger Carp River.
A peaceful, serene waterfall that is frequently visited by hikers and bike riders. It is well worth the stop.
Once open to vehicles, visitors now must hike an easy 2.8 miles (round trip) to access the waterfall. Either walk the easier Marquette Mountain road or hike the more challenging but beautiful Noquemenon trail. If hiking it isn’t your thing, these trails are also mountain bike-friendly.
Getting There
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From downtown Marquette, head west on Washington Street to McClellan Ave/M-553. Turn left onto M-553 and continue for 2.3 miles. We parked in the ski area parking lot, across the street.
Either walk up to Marquette Mountain Road and follow the road 1.4 miles to the falls or follow the trail that goes under the road and to the biking trails.
Carp River Falls
After visiting Morgan Creek Falls, continue up the trail to the stunning Carp River Falls. This is a much more challenging waterfall to access. If you’re looking for an adventure, this is the waterfall for you. Expect steep hillsides, rocks, and slippery areas.
Following Carp River upstream, you will find waterfall drops and rapids around every turn. Roughly half a mile, you will be rewarded with a large, roaring, multi-drop waterfall that is worth every step.
Getting There
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From downtown Marquette, head west on Washington Street to McClellan Ave/M-553. Turn left onto M-553 and continue for 2.3 miles. We parked in the ski area parking lot, across the street.
Either walk up to Marquette Mountain Road and follow the road 1.4 miles to the falls or follow the trail that goes under the road and to the biking trails.
Once you reach Morgan Falls, cross Morgan Creek above the falls and follow the trail upstream along the Carp River for roughly a half mile. To see the falls, you will need to climb down from the rim to the river.
Dead River Falls
Dead River Fall is a favorite and it is easy to see why. The hike is less than a mile but it can be challenging. Expect steep inclines, tree roots, rocks, and mud.
No matter the season, these drops are incredibly wonderful to visit. Set aside some extra time in your day to take in all the views and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Getting There
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From downtown Marquette, head west on W Washington Street toward North 4th Street. Turn right on Presque Isle Ave and continue for roughly 1.4 miles. Turn right onto Wright Street and continue to Forestville Road, about 3 miles.
Turn right onto Forestville Road and continue 2 miles to the power station by the gate. Go past the gate and follow the steep gravel road up the hill.
Follow the signs to the falls into the woods and follow the river upstream to see several drops along the falls.
Reany Falls
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Take a side trip on your way to Dead River Falls and visit the lesser-known Reany Falls. While not nearly as impressive as Dead River Falls, this simple, elegant waterfall is easy to access and makes a nice picnic spot.
Getting There
From downtown Marquette, head west on W Washington Street toward North 4th Street. Turn right on Presque Isle Ave and continue for roughly 1.4 miles. Turn right onto Wright Street and continue to Forestville Road, about 3 miles.
Turn right onto Forestville Road and continue 2 miles to the power station by the gate.
Walk back to the road and up to the bridge that crosses over Reany Creek. You can see the falls from here.
Schweitzer Falls
Hidden in Palmer Michigan, Schweitzer Fall was a surprising discovery. It is a roaring two-tiered 20-foot-tall waterfall with impressive width and heavy water volume.
Despite being only a few hundred yards from the main road, visiting this waterfall feels like you’re in the middle of the woods, far from society.
Getting There
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From Palmer, head south along M-35 to Country Road 565. Stay on 565 for about 2.9 miles and park on the two -track on the right. This is the first drive past the bridge that goes over Schqeitzer River.
Follow the two track and take the first trail to the right. Cut right about 300 yards from the parking area. Continue to the falls.