Discover Stepping Stone Falls: A Scenic Hidden Gem in Flint Michigan
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Michigan is full of stunning waterfalls — both natural and man-made — and Stepping Stone Falls in Flint Michigan is one of the most scenic places in Genesee County.
Nestled at the foot of Mott Lake, the falls hold back the Flint River and is a marvelous man-made waterfall that makes for a great view and a great place to spend several hours or even an entire day. This local treasure is captivating and offers all who visit a unique blend of nature, recreation, and engineering marvels.
A Peaceful Sight in the Park
While Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is home to dozens of scenic waterfalls, Metro Detroit residents don’t have to travel across the bridge to enjoy a stunning display of cascading water.
There’s just something about seeing and hearing the rushing waters of a waterfall that’s calming and visually appealing, and Stepping Stone Falls in Flint is the perfect day trip destination downstate.
DID YOU KNOW: Stepping Stone Falls was constructed in the late 1970s as part of a flood control and water management project for the Flint River; designed to manage water levels and prevent flooding in the area.
The falls — created by a concrete structure — is a sight to see any time of day and the perfect place to unwind. Visitors of all ages can enjoy a peaceful easy walk right to the falls and a series of scenic overlooks.
Visitors passing by the falls at night can watch in amazement as underwater lights illuminate them in all their glory.
A gem of a place you’d never expect to find in the city. It was beautiful and serene to walk through. Lots of wildlife, beautiful paved paths, and bridges. The dam is so cool too. I could imagine the salmon climbing the steps to the backwater. I’m told at night it is lit up and it’s probably spectacular to see.
— Lori B. via Google
The area around Stepping Stone Falls is well-maintained, with lush lawns, trees, and native plants adding to the scenic beauty. In the spring and summer, the vibrant colors of flowers and foliage provide a stunning contrast to the falls. During the fall, the fall colors create a breathtaking backdrop.
A Litany of Activities by the Falls
Stepping Stone Falls is scenic in its own right, but a wealth of outdoor recreational opportunities around it make it a must-visit destination in Flint.
Picnic tables are located throughout the park, so visitors can sit and enjoy a perfect picnic lunch while soaking in views of the falls.
Runners, hikers, and bikers can use well-marked and well-maintained trails such as the Flint River Bike Path to access the footbridge to the falls.
Great place for the family! Scenery is pretty nice. An abundance of nature, fish, geese, plus whatever else you may encounter. A nice trail for walking, jogging, or biking, which leads to another parking lot. A great outing to wind down or start the day.
— Brandon J. via Google
The area is also a popular fishing spot. The Holloway Reservoir is home to a variety of species, including bass, bluegill, and catfish. Anglers can try their luck from the shore or from one of the many nearby piers.
The reservoir is also a great spot for boating, with several launch points available for those who wish to explore the water.
Additional Attractions Nearby
There’s no shortage of things to do in Flint and residents and out-of-town travelers looking for more adventure in the area don’t have to go far.
Exploring Crossroads Village and Huckleberry Railroad
Crossroads Village and Huckleberry Railroad in Flint is five minutes away from the falls. This magical place takes visitors back to a simpler time to a turn-of-the-century Great Lakes town where history comes alive.
Visitors can enjoy tradesmen in action, watch shows at the Colwell Opera House, or view and explore more than 30 historic structures.
The Huckleberry Railroad features a collection of original and antique railway cars and offers seasonal rides as well as special events, including Christmas train rides.
Getting in Touch With Nature at For-Mar Nature Preserve
Michiganders and out-of-town visitors alike love escaping into the Michigan wilderness and For-Mar Nature Preserve in Burton is a perfect place to do it. This preserve and arboretum covers nearly 400 acres and includes a butterfly house, native flora and fauna, and a Memorial Garden.
The centerpiece however is a barrier-free treehouse that opened in 2016 and was an instant success. Thousands of visitors have come to see it for themselves. The treehouse is home to nature superheroes — The Preservers — and also features plenty of educational tools for youngsters to have fun while they learn.
Water Recreation at Bluebell Beach
Visitors looking to have more fun by the water after enjoying time by the falls can visit Bluebell Beach — which is just four minutes away. Here, visitors will find sand, sun, plenty of water, a splash pad, shade kites, and more — all the ingredients they need for the perfect day at the beach.
Visitors can enjoy about a mile-long paved trail on the shores of Mott Lake — a loop that can be completed in about 12 minutes — so it’s an easy and peaceful way to get some exercise. Bike riders can enjoy the view too as the beach connects to the Flint River Bike Path.
Explore Flint’s Hidden Gem of Stepping Stone Falls
Stepping Stone Falls is a hidden gem in the heart of Flint waiting to be explored. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful spot to unwind for a while, a scenic spot for a picnic lunch, or a beautiful outdoor space to enjoy fishing, hiking, and biking, Stepping Stone Falls is a wondrous spot worth visiting and a peaceful spot to escape into nature.