The L’Anse area is rich with hidden gems. From history and culture to waterfalls and mountain views, there’s something for every type of outdoor enthusiast. If waterfalls are your thing, here are 5 you don’t want to miss.
Canyon Falls
In recent years, Canyon Falls has entered the spotlight, making it a popular tourist destination. It has even been named “The Grand Canyon of Michigan”, which I disagree with entirely. Comparing this magnificent waterfall to the impressive national park does neither justice.
Canyon Falls is located at the end of a mile hike that begins in a scenic rest stop off of US-40. Although uneven, the trail is relatively easy and offers scenic views of the mighty Sturgeon River along the way.
At merely 15 feet in height, this waterfall is not one of Michigan’s largest but the unique gorge it resides in adds to its character and beauty.
Learn more at Canyon Falls and the Gorge that Follows.
7 miles from L’Anse
Sturgeon River Falls
The Sturgeon River continues to impress with this 20 foot tall, powerhouse of a waterfall; Sturgeon River Falls.
Located deep within the Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness Area, this waterfall is as wild, rugged, and beautiful as the river it is on. Surging over volcanic outcrops, Sturgeon River Falls is one of the most impressive and strong waterfalls in the area.
Unlike Canyon Falls, those seeking to visit this beauty have a steep one-mile hike ahead of them with plenty of switchbacks and narrow footing along steep hillsides. It is well worth the journey but make sure to allow extra time to visit.
Read more at the Wild Sturgeon River Falls.
27 miles from L’Anse
Slate River Falls
With 5 waterfalls and countless rapids in a short one-mile hike, Slate River has quickly become one of my favorite rivers in the state of Michigan.
Named after the river it resides on, Slate River Falls is an impressive 25-foot waterfall that glides down a slippery, smooth slate rock. It gently empties into a large, calm pool at the base. This is an enchanting waterfall worthy of a visit.
Relatively easy to visit, the hike to Slate River Falls is short and worn enough that it is easy to follow.
Spend A Day on Slate River.
12.3 miles from L’Anse
Quartzite Falls
Much farther upstream from Slate River Falls is Quartzite Falls.
This beautiful waterfall is made up of several small drops that elegantly cascade like steps. The river drops about 8 feet over these large, smooth slabs of slate before flowing into a very deep, calm pool.
This is the perfect location to sit and reflect while taking in the view.
Requiring a short walk down a well-worn path from the road, Quartzite Falls is easy to access and offers a beauty not seen in other waterfalls.
Learn more about The Beautiful Quartzite Falls.
12.5 miles from L’Anse
Silver Falls
Silver Falls may not be the most impressive or largest waterfall in the area but it does have its charm.
This waterfall is made up of two drops – Lower Silver Falls and Upper Silver Falls.
Lower Silver Falls is the closest to the parking area and easiest to access. This interesting drop is made up of two chutes surrounded by beautiful, big stone outcroppings. The chutes empty into a deep pool.
A narrow, rough trail follows the river upstream from the parking lot, for about 0.25 miles. It ends at Upper Silver Falls.
Upper Silver Falls is a much larger drop but because it is harder to access, most people stick to the lower falls.
See more at A Quick Stop at Silver River Falls.
7.4 miles from L’Anse
Bonus Falls
Looking for more waterfalls? You’re my kind of adventurer! There are plenty more to choose from in the area.
Head deeper into the wilds and Discover Leatherby Falls (24 miles from L’Anse) or have a picnic at Big Eric’s Falls (21.2 miles from L’Anse)
Want something closer to town? Check the drops on Falls River in downtown L’Anse or visit the small Powerhouse Falls.