Dead River Falls
Photo: Dead River Wright Street Falls Marquette Michigan 2024-09-22.jpg · cc by 4.0 · Tim Kiser

Dead River Falls

35-foot tiered on Dead River · Marquette County, Michigan

35' tall 0.5 mi hike Moderate 🐕 Dog Friendly
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Known For

Scout's Notes

Dead River Falls is a series of cascading waterfalls that keeps getting better the further you hike upstream. You'll start by parking in what looks like a power plant lot, then face a steep gravel hill climb that gets everyone breathing hard. Look for stairs on the left after the hill — they lead down to the first falls. The trail is a rugged social path with exposed tree roots that actually help as natural stairs on the steep sections. Most people see 4-6 different falls if they keep going, with the largest drops around 10-12 feet. About 20 minutes in, you'll encounter a sketchy log bridge made of fallen trees — crossing it takes you to the upper falls but the trail gets significantly harder with narrow paths along steep drop-offs. Many visitors swim at various pools and locals cliff jump at certain spots, though use extreme caution. The trail surface is dirt with tons of exposed roots, rocks, and muddy sections. This isn't a maintained trail, so you're often picking your own route along the river. Bug spray is essential in summer.

Getting There

Nearest Town

Marquette, MI

County

Marquette County

Coordinates

46.5684, -87.4784

The Hike

Distance (one-way)

0.5 miles

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Type

Trail

Know Before You Go

✅
Parking
❌
Restrooms
—
ADA Access
🆓
Free
🌊
Best: Spring

Parking: Gravel lot by power plant/yellow gate, ample space

Restrooms: Single porta-potty at parking area, often lacks toilet paper

Pets: Dogs allowed but challenging terrain for older dogs

Seasonal: Best flow in spring, still beautiful year-round. Some pools may be low in late summer.

Heads up: Steep drop-offs, slippery rocks, narrow clifftop paths, tree root trip hazards

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is the parking for Dead River Falls?

Park in the gravel lot by the power plant with the yellow gate and porta-potty. It might not look like a trailhead, but walk up the steep gravel road to the right of the fence — you'll see a Dead River Falls sign and stairs on the left after the hill climb.

How long is the hike to Dead River Falls?

The first falls are just 5-10 minutes from parking after the initial hill climb. The full trail extends about 1.7 miles round trip if you see all the falls, but most people hike 30-60 minutes one way, seeing 4-6 different waterfalls.

Is Dead River Falls worth visiting and how much time should I plan?

Absolutely worth it — many reviewers call it their favorite UP waterfall because you see multiple falls that get progressively better. Plan at least 1-2 hours, though many people spend half a day exploring, swimming, and cliff jumping.

Can you swim at Dead River Falls?

Yes, there are multiple swimming holes along the river. Locals cliff jump at certain spots (particularly at the first large falls), and many visitors bring bathing suits and water shoes. The water can be cold but is very popular for swimming.

Are dogs allowed at Dead River Falls?

Dogs are allowed and many people bring them, but the trail is challenging with steep climbs over roots and rocks. Several reviewers noted their older dogs struggled with the terrain. Keep dogs under control near cliff edges.

Is Dead River Falls wheelchair or stroller accessible?

No, this trail is not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers. The steep gravel hill, stairs, tree root 'ladders,' and rugged terrain make it impossible for wheels. Even those using walking canes will find it very difficult.

How difficult is the hike to Dead River Falls?

It's moderate to difficult depending on how far you go. The initial steep gravel hill and root-covered terrain challenge many visitors. The trail gets progressively harder if you cross the log bridge to see upper falls, with narrow paths along steep drop-offs.

What kind of shoes should I wear to Dead River Falls?

Hiking boots or sturdy hiking shoes are essential — multiple reviewers specifically warn against flip-flops or sandals. The trail has exposed roots, rocks, steep sections, and can be muddy and slippery.

Should I cross the log bridge at Dead River Falls?

The makeshift log bridge (fallen trees) crosses the river about 20 minutes into the hike. Crossing it leads to more spectacular upper falls, but the trail becomes much more difficult and dangerous with narrow clifftop paths. Only cross if you're comfortable with challenging terrain.

How do I see all the waterfalls at Dead River Falls?

After descending the initial stairs to the first falls, turn right and follow the river upstream. Stay close to the water rather than climbing up the hillside. Each falls leads to another — most people see 4-6 different drops if they keep going for 30-45 minutes.

Are there other waterfalls near Dead River Falls?

Yes, Reany Falls is visible from the road bridge just 0.2 miles up from the parking area. Some visitors also mention Hope Falls further up the trail system.

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