Presque Isle Waterfall Loop Best Upper Peninsula Michigan Hikes

Presque Isle Waterfall Loop Eddies

Presque Isle Waterfall Loop at a Glance

Distance 2.3 Mile Loop Trail

Difficulty Level Moderate

Address S Boundary Rd, Wakefield, MI 49968

Directions to Trailhead Take Hwy 519 from Wakefield to Presque Isle Rd. Follow the road straight until South Boundary Rd where you will turn right. The parking for the trailhead is over the river.

Parking Fee $10

Dogs Yes, dogs are allowed on a leash.

What to Expect

If you make the trek to Porcupine Mountain Wilderness State Park in the UP, this thrilling hike provides a big bang for your buck. On the Western edge of the park you can view a series of three beautiful waterfalls along the Presque Isle River, which include Nawadha, Manido, and Manabezho Falls. Much of trail leads along a shady forest path along the river which has wooden walkways and stairs. Signage is good in the area, so keep following the trail markers and you’ll be set.

TIP Be prepared for lots of steps and bug spray!

Manabezho Falls

The 2.3 mile loop trail has a decent amount of stairs and inclines, with some exposed roots. The first waterfall, Manabezho Falls, is the largest of the three and boasts a 25 foot drop. It is easily visited and will reward you with gorgeous water views.

Next up is Manido Falls, which is the smallest waterfall of the three. The name of the falls, Manido, is an Ojibway word that means “spirit” or “ghost”.

The “midst of rapids” or Nawadaha Falls is the final waterfalls you will encounter. There is a platform that you can rest a moment and gaze at the 15 feet cascading falls.

A wooden bridge across the Presque Isle River to the island is another great feature of the area. One of the highlights of the trip for our family was viewing the potholes in the river beds, these mesmerizing round potholes are created by eddies swirling sand and pebbles in a circular motion.

Final Thoughts

Looking to camp nearby on the far West end of the Upper Peninsula, here is a Trip Guide and Review for Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. Interested in more family activities? Follow along with Discovering Anew on Facebook for more travel and camping adventures in Michigan and beyond. Don’t forget to save and pin for later.

Remember camping reservations can be made 6 months in advance at Michigan DNR Reservations for Michigan state parks. I highly recommend planning ahead for popular state parks.

Happy Exploring!