Yondota Falls
Photo: Yondota Falls - panoramio.jpg · cc by 3.0 · Ian Shackleford

Yondota Falls

15-foot tiered on Presque Isle River · Gogebic County, Michigan

15' tall Easy
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Scout's Notes

Yondota Falls rewards those who explore beyond the obvious. You'll first encounter a modest drop that many mistake for the main attraction — keep going. The trail continues upstream to reveal a spectacular gorge with the highest waterfall, followed by a long series of cascades and smaller drops that make this a true gem. The hike follows the Presque Isle River through a shaded forest of towering cedars, with wildflowers dotting the understory in early summer. The trail is relatively easy but does involve some rock hopping and scrambling if you want the best views. Most visitors find it uncrowded, often having the falls to themselves on weekdays. The biggest challenge isn't the terrain — it's the bugs. Mosquitoes and black flies can be fierce in the shadows, especially June through August. Come prepared with bug spray or consider visiting in fall when the insects subside. Look closely in the quiet pools and you might spot white crayfish crawling along the bottom, adding to the natural wonder of this lesser-known waterfall.

Getting There

Nearest Town

, MI

County

Gogebic County

Coordinates

46.4302, -89.6846

The Hike

Difficulty

Easy

Trail Type

Trail

Know Before You Go

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

Seasonal: Beautiful year-round but bugs are fierce June-August. Fall offers bug-free viewing with great colors.

Heads up: Rock scrambling required for best views, can be slippery

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is Yondota Falls and is it easy to find?

Visitors report Yondota Falls is easy to find, though specific directions aren't mentioned in reviews. The trail continues past the falls, so watch carefully to avoid walking past it.

Should I stop at the first waterfall at Yondota Falls?

No — multiple visitors emphasize not stopping at the first drop you encounter. Keep walking upstream to reach the spectacular gorge with the highest waterfall and the series of cascades beyond. The best parts of Yondota Falls require continued exploration.

How bad are the bugs at Yondota Falls?

The mosquitoes and black flies can be quite annoying, especially in the shaded areas along the trail. They're particularly fierce during summer months (June-August). Bring bug spray and consider visiting in fall for a more comfortable experience.

Is Yondota Falls crowded?

Yondota Falls tends to be uncrowded with not many other visitors. Several reviewers mention having the trail and falls to themselves, especially on weekdays. It appears to be one of the less-visited waterfalls in the area.

Is Yondota Falls worth visiting?

Yes — reviewers consistently rate it 4-5 stars and call it a "true gem of the UP" and "beautiful." While the bugs can be annoying in summer, the spectacular gorge, multiple tiers of falls, and peaceful atmosphere make it worthwhile.

What's unique about the wildlife at Yondota Falls?

Look closely in the still, shallow pools along the river and you may spot white crayfish crawling on the bottom. The trail also features wildflowers in season and passes through a forest of impressive cedar trees.

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