Wagner Falls
20-foot tiered on Wagner Creek · Alger County, Michigan
Known For
- Short boardwalk through woods
- Easy Munising stop
Scout's Notes
Getting There
Munising, MI
Alger County
Wagner Falls Scenic Site
46.3880, -86.6476
The Hike
0.15 miles
Easy
Boardwalk
Know Before You Go
Free roadside scenic site
Parking: Small gravel lot across M-28 from trailhead, ~10-15 spots, fills quickly on weekends but turnover is fast
Pets: Dogs allowed on leash on main trail
Seasonal: Most powerful during spring snowmelt, maintains decent flow year-round
Heads up: Boardwalk bridges can be bouncy/slippery, steep terrain if you climb past viewing platform
Nearby Waterfalls
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Wagner Falls and how do I get there?
Wagner Falls is located right off M-28/M-94 junction, about 2 miles south of Munising. Look for the small gravel parking lot on the side of the highway — the falls are directly across the road from the parking area.
How long is the hike to Wagner Falls?
It's barely a hike — just a 2-5 minute walk on a flat boardwalk and paved path from the parking lot to the viewing platform. The total distance is about a quarter mile one-way.
Is Wagner Falls worth visiting?
Yes! Many reviewers call it their favorite waterfall in the area. Since it only takes 15-20 minutes total to visit, it's definitely worth the quick stop, especially if you're already driving through Munising.
Can you swim at Wagner Falls?
While you can't swim at the base of the main falls, many visitors wade and play in Wagner Creek above the falls. You'll need to climb past the viewing platform railing to access the creek upstream.
Are dogs allowed at Wagner Falls?
Yes, dogs are allowed on leash on the main trail to the viewing platform. Keep them leashed and clean up after them — some reviewers complained about owners not picking up waste.
Is Wagner Falls wheelchair accessible?
Yes! The trail is paved and boardwalked with only slight inclines. Wheelchairs and strollers can easily make it to the viewing platform, though the platform itself is small.
Is there a fee to visit Wagner Falls?
No, Wagner Falls is free to visit. It's a roadside scenic site with no entrance fee or Recreation Passport required.
What's the parking situation at Wagner Falls?
There's a small gravel parking lot across M-28 from the trailhead with about 10-15 spots. It fills up on summer weekends but people don't stay long, so turnover is quick. You can also find limited parking along the road.
Can you explore beyond the main Wagner Falls viewing area?
Yes! Many visitors climb over the viewing platform railing to explore upstream where there are more cascades and small falls. You can wade up Wagner Creek all the way to Highway 28, though the terrain gets more challenging.
Is Wagner Falls accessible in winter?
Yes, though the parking lot isn't plowed so you'll need to park along the road. The boardwalk can be icy and slippery but remains walkable — microspikes help but aren't essential for the main trail.
What makes the boardwalk at Wagner Falls bouncy?
One reviewer noted that a section of boardwalk seems to be missing center support beams, making it feel like 'walking on a wooden trampoline.' It's safe but can feel a bit springy underfoot.
How does Wagner Falls compare to other area waterfalls?
Wagner Falls stands out for being both beautiful and incredibly easy to access. Many reviewers rank it as their favorite despite it not being the tallest, thanks to its multi-tiered cascades and serene forest setting.