Scott Falls
Photo: Scott Falls 5.jpg · cc by-sa 3.0 · NMMIMAJ

Scott Falls

10-foot plunge near Au Train · Alger County, Michigan

10' tall Roadside Easy ♿ ADA Accessible 🐕 Dog Friendly
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Known For

Scout's Notes

Scott Falls is the definition of a roadside waterfall — you'll literally park on the shoulder of M-28 and walk about 10-20 steps to reach this 10-foot cascade. What makes this spot special is how interactive it is: you can walk behind the falls into a small cave, climb up either side to reach the top, and even stand directly under the water if you're feeling adventurous. The sandstone cliff creates a perfect overhang that forms a natural grotto behind the falling water. While the falls are small, they're incredibly photogenic, especially in the hour before sunset when golden light hits the moss-covered rocks. Water flow varies dramatically by season — expect a powerful cascade during spring snowmelt or after heavy rains, but it can dwindle to a trickle by late summer. The constant road noise from M-28 takes away from the wilderness feel, but the convenience makes this a perfect 10-minute photo stop. Park at the H.J. Rathfoot Roadside Park directly across the highway (which has vault toilets and lake access) and carefully cross M-28 to reach the falls. The rocks can be slippery and muddy, especially near the base, but the short scramble to get behind or above the falls is manageable for most ages.

Getting There

Nearest Town

Au Train, MI

County

Alger County

Coordinates

46.4371, -86.8144

The Hike

Distance (one-way)

Roadside — no hike required

Difficulty

Easy

Trail Type

Roadside

Know Before You Go

Parking
Restrooms
ADA Access
🆓
Free
🌊
Best: Spring

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.

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