Dead River Falls are a series of cascading waterfalls surrounded by a lush forest. It is dubbed one of the best waterfall adventures in the U.P. This popular hike in Marquette, Michigan, is known for its scenic beauty, abundant wildlife, and rugged terrain. Dead River Falls are a breathtaking sight that can only be fully appreciated by experiencing them in person. Pictures do not do them justice.
Directions to Dead River Falls
Address: Ambros Circle, Marquette, Michigan
How to Get To Dead River Falls from Marquette, Mi
Drive Time: 14 minutes
- Head west on W Washington St toward N 4th St.
- Use any lane to turn right onto US Hwy 41 N.
- Turn right onto Commerce Dr.
- Continue onto Forestville Rd/Forestville Basin Trail
- Continue straight onto Ambros Circle
- Destination will be on your right
*You can also take Wright Street to Forestville Road
How To Get To Dead River Falls From Mackinaw City, MI
Drive Time: 3 hours
*This route has toll roads
- Get on I-75 N in Wawatam Township from 3rd St and S Nicolet St.
- Follow U.S. Rte 2 W to M-77 N in Germfask
- Turn right onto M-77 N
- Follow M-28 W to Commerce Dr in Marquette
- Take Forestville Rd/Forestville Basin Trail to Ambros Circle
- Destination will be on your right.
How To Get To Dead River Falls From Green Bay, WI
Drive Time: 3 hours 20 minutes
*You will change time zones
- Follow US-141 N/US-41 N to M-95 N in Breitung Township
- Turn right onto M-95 N
- Follow US Hwy 41 S to County Rd HQ in Marquette
- Take Forestville Rd/Forestville Basin Trail to Ambros Circle
- Destination will be on your right
Dead River Falls Parking Area
You’ll follow Ambros Circle until it turns into a parking lot. The parking lot is a decent size, however, it fills up rather quickly. We got there late morning and got the last parking spot available (we went in July).
Dead River Falls parking area is free to use and has a porta-potty if you need to use a restroom before or after your hike.
Dead River Falls Trail Map
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Dead River Falls Trail
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Length: 1.7-mile hike
- Trail Type: Out and Back
- Elevation Gain: 229 ft.
- Dog Friendly: Yes, but use caution.
We took our dog with us and we wouldn’t take our dog again. There is some scrambling and hiking along a steep, rugged cliffside that made it difficult to help our dog navigate. We even had to pick him up and carry him over things. I’d advise against it, but dogs are welcome. - Entrance Fee: FREE
Dead River Falls trailhead can be found just off the parking lot near the old power house and the porta potty. If you look just beyond the power house, you’ll see a steep hill with an access road. To get started on your adventure, follow that access road to the top of the hill. You’ll take the trail to the left when you are at the top. You’ll see a Dead River Falls trail marker here.
After a short distance, you’ll come across the first drop of Dead River Falls. Just passed this point, is when the hiking trail starts to get tricky. Don’t be bummed if you decide the trail is too difficult because the view of the first drop is quite impressive.
A short hike after the first waterfall is when things become difficult. The trail isn’t marked well, you’ll have to cross a shallow stream and navigate a steep cliffside with plenty of large tree roots. This part of the trail is very rugged, but it’s worth navigating to be able to see the main attraction.
*If you are unsure of what way to go, follow the water.
When you get done hiking the cliffside, you’ll stumble across the second drop of Dead River Falls. This waterfall is narrow in shallow water but widens in high water. How it looks is completely dependent on the water level. This waterfall is surrounded by a rocky gorge with high rocky walls.
A short walk after the second drop, you’ll find the last drop or the main attraction. This stunning waterfall flows into a larger pool. We saw many people climb to the top of the falls and jump into the water. If you are not that adventurous, you can also just walk into the water and swim. It’s a great spot to hang out and swim in the summer.
Things to do Near Dead River Falls
- Presque Isle Park
- Explore Lake Superior
- Sugarloaf Mountain
- Hogback Mountain
- Hunt for waterfalls
- Look for Yooperlites along Lake Superior
Where to Stay While Visiting Dead River Falls
We stayed at Hampton Inn Marquette/Waterfront and had a great experience.
The map below show many different accommodation options, where they are located and how much they cost.
Final Thoughts
Dead River Falls, located in the upper peninsula of Michigan is sure to be a hit for everyone including families, couples, and solo hikers. This natural wonder is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
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