Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
78.00 ft (23.77 m)
Trail type
There-and-back
Distance
1.00 mi (1.61 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

Canyon Falls is a popular stop for visitors to the middle portion of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. It is a mile long round-trip hike to view Canyon Falls. The hike starts at the easy to access Canyon Falls Roadside Park which is located on U.S. Highway 41 about 10 miles south of L’Anse, Michigan. The park has ample parking including spots for RVs. The park has vault toilets and an informational sign with a map.

The trail to the falls is well worn and easy to follow. There are many roots to contend with along the way, but the trail is quite level and has some boardwalks. At about half way point the trail runs near the a 106-mile-long Sturgeon River which feeds the falls. The scenic 30-foot-high Canyon falls can be viewed from above or below. The falls gets its name from the box canyon the river flows into after dropping over its chute. This gorge is called the “Grand Canyon of Michigan”. The canyon beyond the falls can be explored via a trail that runs near the edge of the gorge. This trail is part of the North Country Trail; look for the blue blazes. The area downstream from the falls is a popular spot for swimming and cliff jumping on warm summer days, but please use caution.

There are no fees to visit this waterfall and dogs are allowed on the trail, but must be on a leash. The hike to Canyon Falls is a wonderful hike for families and visitors of all ages.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

High

Parking Pass

None

Open Year-round

Yes

Pros

Scenic waterfall and canyon.

Cons

Roots.

Trailhead Elevation

1,420.00 ft (432.82 m)

Highest point

1,420.00 ft (432.82 m)

Features

Near lake or river
Waterfalls
Family friendly
Vault toilet
Geologically significant

Typically multi-day

No

Permit required

No

Location

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