Five Michigan Waterfalls to Start With (That We Still Love Years Later)
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Michigan is an incredible state, especially when it comes to getting outside. There is so much to see and do that it can feel overwhelming, especially when you are trying to plan trips with kids. When I first started traveling more of the Mitten State with my family, I needed ideas that felt doable. Short walks. Clear payoffs. Places that didn’t require an entire weekend of planning.
That is exactly what I hope to offer here.
This is a list of five family-friendly waterfalls that are easy to access, rewarding to visit, and worth a return visit. One of them even allows you to get in the water. If you do not have young kids, this list is still for you. These are waterfalls and hikes I recommend to anyone who wants to start exploring without taking on too much of Michigan at once.
Ocqueoc Falls
Ocqueoc Township, MI 49759
Ocqueoc Falls is easily one of my children’s favorite places in Michigan. We first discovered it while heading to the east side of the state for a trip, and I started researching what else the northeast corner of Michigan had to offer that my kids would actually enjoy. Since they have always loved water, the Ocqueoc Falls Bicentennial Pathway immediately stood out.
There are several trail options here, but the short, accessible path straight to the falls sees the most foot traffic. Many people swim near the largest drop, but we usually head a little farther downstream, where the water is calmer and better for wading and splashing. It is one of those places where kids can explore while adults still get a great view. If I were just starting my waterfall hopping journey with my family, this would absolutely be one of my first stops.
Bond Falls
Haight Township, MI 49912
Bond Falls may be one of the most photographed waterfalls in Michigan, second only to Tahquamenon Falls. It earns that reputation. This is a great waterfall to visit in any season, with a wide viewing area and multiple angles to explore.
If you visit during the off-season, be prepared for a longer walk from the parking area since the main lot is closed. That said, the walk is still manageable with kids and well worth the effort. The boardwalk and viewing platforms make it easy to enjoy the falls without needing a long or difficult hike.
Laughing Whitefish Falls
Rock River Township, MI 49885
If you love easy hikes paired with interesting landscapes, Laughing Whitefish Falls is a great choice. I have visited both in early spring and late summer, and each season offers something different. Spring brings the most dramatic flow, with water cascading down the limestone in what feels like a continuous sheet. Summer is quieter and more relaxed.
One thing to note is the access road. The final quarter mile to the parking area is unpaved and can become muddy in spring. It is worth checking road conditions before you go. Once on the trail, the route is shaded and leads through the woods to the first viewing platform. From there, stairs lead down to additional viewpoints, which makes the hike feel like an adventure for kids who love a little movement.
Miners Falls
Munising Township, MI 49884
Miners Falls is one of my favorite waterfalls in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. If you can visit in the spring, I highly recommend it. The access road is seasonal, so checking conditions ahead of time is important.
The hike to the falls is just over half a mile on a well-maintained gravel path, making it a good option for most families. To reach the best view, you will need to go down a set of stairs, but the payoff at the bottom is well worth it. The falls are wide, powerful, and consistently impressive.
Upper Tahquamenon Falls
Paradise, MI 49768
Upper Tahquamenon Falls is the largest waterfall in Michigan and one I return to in every season. I have visited in summer, spring, fall, and winter, and each visit feels completely different. It is hard to pick a favorite.
The short walk to the main viewing area is paved and stroller-friendly. At the time of writing, the nearly complete boardwalk and stair project will add even more accessible viewing options. We like to take the nature trail back to the parking lot to round out the experience.
There is a brewery, food, and clean restrooms open year-round, which makes this an especially easy stop for families. Summer is busy, but for good reason. If you can visit during the shoulder season, parking is easier, and the trails are less crowded. Be sure to visit both the upper and lower falls. Swimming is allowed at the lower falls, but always use good judgment, as currents can be strong and rocks slippery.
Build Your Own Adventure
Michigan has more than 300 waterfalls, which can feel intimidating. If you are just starting out, I encourage you to choose one waterfall that is easy to access and then build a simple day or weekend around it. Add a short hike, a nearby town, or a picnic stop.
Some of our favorite trips have been built around waterfalls that are easy to reach yet memorable enough to bring us back. You do not have to see everything at once. Start small. Start as close to home as you can and let your list grow from there.