Spray Falls
Photo: Spray Falls at Mount Rainier National Park in Washington 1.jpg · cc by-sa 4.0 · Jeffhollett

Spray Falls

70-foot plunge on Spray Creek · Alger County, Michigan

70' tall 5 mi hike Moderate
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Scout's Notes

Spray Falls presents a unique challenge — this 70-foot waterfall plunging directly off the Pictured Rocks cliffs is stunning, but you can't actually see it from the hiking trail above. The falls drop straight over the edge where Spray Creek meets Lake Superior, and the clifftop trail offers no vantage point to view the cascade. From above, you'll find a beautiful 5-mile hike along the cliffs with expansive lake views and sandy bluff-top "beaches" north of the falls, but the waterfall itself remains hidden below. The only way to truly appreciate Spray Falls is from the water — either by kayak or on a Pictured Rocks boat cruise. Many visitors hike the full 5 miles from the parking area (passing Chapel Rock at 2.5 miles) expecting to see the falls, only to discover they can't. From the water, especially during sunset cruises when the light hits the falling water, the view is spectacular. The isolation and dramatic setting where forest stream meets cliff edge makes this one of the most photogenic falls in Pictured Rocks, but plan accordingly — this is a boat destination, not a hiking one.

Getting There

Nearest Town

, MI

County

Alger County

Coordinates

46.5577, -86.4106

The Hike

Distance (one-way)

5 miles

Difficulty

Moderate

Trail Type

Trail

Know Before You Go

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

Seasonal: Most water flow in late May during snowmelt

Heads up: Can't see falls from clifftop trail

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you see Spray Falls from the hiking trail?

No, you cannot see Spray Falls from above. The waterfall drops straight over the cliff edge with no viewing angle from the clifftop trail. The only way to see the falls is from the water via kayak or boat cruise.

How far is the hike to Spray Falls?

It's a 5-mile one-way hike from the parking area to reach Spray Falls. Chapel Rock is at the 2.5-mile mark along the way. Remember that you won't be able to see the falls from the trail.

What's the best way to see Spray Falls?

The best views are from the water — either by kayak or on a Pictured Rocks boat cruise. The sunset cruises are particularly spectacular when the orange light hits the falling water. From the hiking trail above, you cannot see the falls at all.

Is it worth hiking to Spray Falls if you can't see it?

The hike offers beautiful clifftop views of Lake Superior, sandy "beaches" on the bluffs, and passes Chapel Rock. However, if your main goal is seeing the waterfall itself, you'll be disappointed — take a boat cruise instead.

Where exactly is Spray Falls located?

Spray Falls is located along the Pictured Rocks cliffs where Spray Creek plunges 70 feet directly into Lake Superior. It's about 5 miles northeast along the Lakeshore Trail from the Chapel parking area.

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