Lower Montreal Falls

Due to locked gates, it's now a 5-mile one-way hike (10 miles round trip). You'll walk 3+ miles on a gravel road from the first blue gate to the trailhead, then another 1.5 miles on the trail to reach the lower falls. Plan on 3+ hours minimum.

Park at the first blue gate on Smith Fisheries Road. There are now three locked gates (two blue metal, one wooden) preventing vehicle access to the old trailhead. You must walk the gravel road from the first gate.

No. Multiple gates now block vehicle access. You must park at the first blue gate and walk approximately 3 miles on the gravel road before reaching the actual hiking trail.

The gravel Smith Fisheries Road has potholes and one steep hill that's challenging for 2WD vehicles. While some make it in regular cars by driving carefully, 4WD is recommended for safety and peace of mind.

Yes, there are three distinct falls - lower, middle, and upper. The lower falls are easiest to reach. The middle falls require crossing the river, and the upper falls involve bushwhacking with no clear trail.

Yes, the lower falls have small pools suitable for swimming where the water flows into Lake Superior. The water is cold year-round.

The trail has sections running along 25-foot cliff edges that require careful footing. It's not suitable for young children without close supervision. Fallen trees and exposed roots also create tripping hazards.

The trail itself is moderate with roots, fallen trees, and cliff edges to navigate. However, the 3+ mile road walk each way makes the total distance challenging. Most people need good hiking boots and 3+ hours for the full trip.

Most visitors say yes - it's one of the best waterfall experiences in the UP with falls flowing directly into Lake Superior. However, some feel equally beautiful falls exist with easier access. The solitude and dramatic setting make it special for those willing to commit the time.

Yes, some visitors bike the 3-mile gravel road section to the trailhead, which saves time. However, the actual trail has too many fallen trees and obstacles for bikes.

The gates appear to be on private property. Some reviews mention the land between the road and falls is now privately owned, though the falls themselves remain accessible via the public trail.