Hike to Yellow Dog Falls

It is a 1.2 mile out-and-back hike to reach Yellow Dog Falls which is located northwest of Marquette, Michigan. To reach the trailhead from Marquette take CR 550 for 23 miles then take a left on CR 510. Travel on CR 510 for just under seven miles; after crossing a steel bridge over the Yellow Dog River you will find a small parking area on the left side of the road. Note that a good portion of CR 510 is a gravel road; but it is well maintained. There a no amenities at this trailhead. Dogs are allowed on this trail.

There is an informational map for the Yellow Dog Community Forest at the start of the trail. Yellow Dog Falls is located in this Forest. A narrow, flat trail through a forest of hardwoods and conifers leads the hiker to this scenic waterfall. This hike is especially nice in the fall when the leaves of the maples and other deciduous trees are turning colors. There are viewing spots above and below this 20-foot waterfall. A unique feature of Yellow Dog Falls is that the water flows around a large rock creating two separate drops. The water flows back together below the rock to continue its cascade downstream. Below the falls is a sandy pool where visitors can cool off if desired.

There are several smaller drops that can be explored downstream. Continue following a trail on south side of the river for about a half mile to check out these smaller waterfalls if you chose to do so. The trail may be faint on this section. Once you have taken in the beauty of the area, return the way you came.