Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula is a haven for all kinds of outdoor enthusiasts. It has rugged mountain views, wild rivers, and quaint historic towns sprinkled in between. There are plenty of adventures and waterfalls to keep one satisfied. So grab your hiking boots and get ready to visit these 5 waterfalls.
Hungarian Falls
Hungarian Falls is one of the most impressive waterfalls in the Houghton/Keweenaw area. Over the years, it has remained one of my favorites to visit. It is made up of multiple drops, each one differs significantly from the others.
If there ever was a waterfall that looked like it belonged in an enchanted storybook, this would be it.
Hungarian Falls is relatively easy to access. The upper falls and the surrounding area were put into a land trust and remain open for public viewing. The middle and lower falls are located on state-owned land.
While not as popular as some other waterfalls, don’t expect to have this gem to yourself.
Explore more about Hungarian Falls.
9.1 miles from Houghton, Michigan
Jacob’s Falls
This roadside waterfall might not be impressive in size but it sure is pretty. Although made up of multiple drops, the most impressive and best-known can be viewed right from your car.
The upper drops are strenuous to access and require great balance and footing. While beautiful, if you’re not willing to get wet or potentially take a tumble, I’d recommend not climbing the steep, slippery, and narrow rock ledges to view the drops.
Bonus! Jacob’s Falls is located next to The Jampot. This famous shop is owned by monks and offers many tasty goodies for purchase.
Learn more about Jacob’s Falls.
18.7 miles from Copper Harbor, Michigan
Manganese Falls
While Manganese Falls is another less impressive waterfall in the Keweenaw, it is a pretty unique one. Explorers looking for a bit more adventure can also check out the gorge below it.
Manganese Falls is about 30 feet in height and drops down into a very steep gorge. To reach the bottom for a different perspective, do not attempt to climb down the waterfall. Instead, return to the road and follow the trails downstream of the waterfall.
Read more in A Gorge to Remember – Manganese Gorge.
0.9 miles from Copper Harbor, Michigan
Eagle River Falls
Stop by Eagle River Falls on a drive to Copper Harbor. Easily viewed from a pedestrian bridge right off of M-26, this waterfall can be an impressive sight after a heavy rain or during the spring melt. At over 60 feet in height, it is well worth the visit.
Above the waterfall is an old wooden bridge. This was the original site of the Lake Superior Fuse Company and the remains of the dam can still be seen.
22.7 miles from Copper Harbor, Michigan
Silver River Falls
Silver River Falls is easily accessible and is made up of two drops. The upper drop is very wide, stretching the entire length of the river, and is extremely smooth, which is one of my favorite aspects of this waterfall. It always amazes me how much water can shape rock.
The lower drops are much much more narrow and flow over jagged rocks.
Silver River Falls may not be at the top of the waterfall bucket list due to its smaller size, it still makes for a scenic stop. I recommend visiting during the wetter seasons for the full effect.
Read more about Silver River Falls.
9.5 miles from Copper Harbor, Michigan
Bonus Falls
Looking for more?
Before you head to the Keweenaw, check to see if the Douglass Houghton Falls Veterans Memorial Park is open. Located within the park is the Houghton-Douglass Falls, Michigan’s tallest waterfall at 110 feet. Until recently, the waterfall remained closed to the public on private property – for good reason. In 2018, the DNR purchased the property and began working on a state park dedicated to Veterans. Part of the project is to improve conditions to make it safe for visitors.
Visit Haven Falls in a small roadside park in the town of Lac La Belle. Easy to access and provides a pleasant scenic backdrop to an afternoon picnic.
Have some free time? Visit Montreal Falls on the Montreal River. Off the beaten path, this waterfall is supposedly beautiful and well worth the trip. It is on my bucket list!