Scott Falls
10-foot plunge near Au Train · Alger County, Michigan
Known For
- Visible from M-28
- Walk behind the falls
- Roadside park across from Lake Superior
Scout's Notes
Getting There
Au Train, MI
Alger County
46.4371, -86.8144
The Hike
Roadside — no hike required
Easy
Roadside
Know Before You Go
Parking: Park on M-28 shoulder or at H.J. Rathfoot Roadside Park across the highway
Restrooms: Vault toilet at roadside park across M-28
Pets: Dogs allowed, but watch for traffic when crossing M-28
Seasonal: Best flow during spring snowmelt and after rains. Can reduce to a trickle in late summer/early fall
Heads up: Busy highway crossing required, slippery rocks near base, watch your head in cave behind falls
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly is Scott Falls located?
Scott Falls is right along M-28 near Au Train, about 20 miles west of Munising. Look for it just east of the H.J. Rathfoot State Roadside Park near mile marker 166. The falls are on the south side of the highway and can be easy to miss if you're not watching carefully.
How far do you have to walk to see Scott Falls?
There's virtually no walking required — it's literally 10-20 steps from the road shoulder to the falls. This is as close to a drive-up waterfall as you'll find in Michigan. Even those with mobility issues can see the falls from their vehicle if parked on the shoulder.
Can you walk behind Scott Falls?
Yes! Walking behind the falls is one of the main attractions here. There's a small cave or grotto formed by the sandstone overhang where you can stand completely behind the falling water. Just watch your head on the low ceiling and be careful of slippery rocks.
Is Scott Falls worth visiting?
For a 10-15 minute photo stop while driving M-28, absolutely. Don't make a special trip just for Scott Falls, but it's a fun roadside break that offers unique photo opportunities, especially being able to walk behind and above the falls. Kids particularly enjoy the interactive nature of this waterfall.
Where should I park for Scott Falls?
You have two options: pull off on the shoulder of M-28 right by the falls, or park at the H.J. Rathfoot State Roadside Park directly across the highway. The roadside park is safer and has restrooms, but you'll need to carefully cross the busy highway to reach the falls.
Does Scott Falls always have water flowing?
Water flow varies significantly by season. Spring (April-May) offers the best flow from snowmelt. After heavy rains the falls can be quite impressive. However, by late summer and early fall, it often reduces to just a trickle — many visitors in July-September report disappointingly low water levels.
Can you see Scott Falls in winter?
Yes, the falls are accessible year-round and create beautiful ice formations in winter. When frozen, you can still walk behind the ice curtain. Some visitors find the frozen falls even more impressive than the flowing water. Just be extra careful of ice on the rocks and road shoulder.
Are there stairs at Scott Falls?
No stairs — you step down from the road shoulder and might hop across a few rocks to reach the base. If you want to climb to the top or get behind the falls, it's a short scramble up the muddy slope on either side. Most people, including children, find it quite manageable.
What other attractions are near Scott Falls?
Directly across M-28 is the H.J. Rathfoot roadside park with Lake Superior beach access. A short walk down the beach leads to the "Face in the Rock" formation. This area makes a nice combo stop for a beach walk and waterfall visit. Au Train is just a few miles east.
Is there cell phone service at Scott Falls?
No, multiple visitors report having no cell service at this location. Download any directions or information you need before arriving. The roadside park across the street also lacks cell coverage.