Michigans Upper Peninsula has many spectacular waterfalls but for trolls who live downstate, it is a long trip to see them. This is my list of waterfalls in the Lower Peninsula. Before you get upset with me, I know many of them are not true waterfalls and are man-made. I do enjoy visiting them and they still have the relaxing quality of falling water the make the list. They are also good places to practice your photography for when you do make it up to the U.P.
1 Ocqueoc Falls is located near Onaway and is the largest waterfall in the Lower Peninsula. It is a state scenic site and you will need a recreation passport or purchase a day pass to visit it. you can see my post about it HERE
2 Irontone Springs north of Gaylord is a roadside park on old 27. They are more like rapids and really small but it is easy to get to and a nice place to stop especially if you are passing by it anyway. You can see my post about it HERE
3 Seven Bridges Recreation Area near Kalkaska has several little streams with waterfalls in an idyllic setting. It is the perfect place to explore for a few hours to find some peace and quiet. You can see my post HERE
4 Iargo Springs near Lumberman’s Monument is a mystical place along the Ausable River. A large set of stairs that take a while to climb is required to reach the spring but it is worth the effort. The falls are made with a set of logs near the spring. they are only about two feet tall but it is a beautiful place to visit. You can see my post HERE
5 Fishtown in the Leelanau Peninsula has a dam right in the historic tourist town. The water cascades over it making for a spectacular photo with historic buildings on either side. You can see my post HERE
6 Ludington State Park Dam Yeah I know it’s a dam and not a waterfall but it usually has water flowing over it and besides it is in one of Michigan’s most popular state parks.
7 Dow Gardens in Midland has a little man made waterfall. There is an admission fee to the gardens but there is a lot of beautiful flowers and landscaping to see and practice your photography.
8 Cass River Rock Dam in Frankenmuth is more like rapids but it is picturesque with the old grianery next to the river. Plus, it is in Frankenmuth, one of Michigan’s most popular tourist towns with lots of stuff to see and places to eat. You can see more HERE
9 Rockford Dam is only a few blocks from downtown Rockford. It has a nice park on either side and there are plenty of places to shop and dine nearby.
10 Stepping Stone Falls Northeast of Flint a Genesee County park overlooks part of a dame with columns for water from the Flint River to cascade over. You can see more HERE
11 Peninsular Dam is located on the Huron River in Ypsilanti. The dam once powered a paper mill but the property is now a public park with an old abandoned building next to the dam.
12 Slayton Arboretum is part of Hillsdale College in Hillsdale. They have a beautiful man made waterfall that visitors can enjoy.
I know many of these places are not natural waterfalls but they are places I have enjoyed visiting. If you love exploring Michigan I think you will enjoy them also. If there is somewhere in the Lower Peninsula that I should add to the list let me know in the comments below.
P.S. Many of the locations on the list are featured in the Lost In Michigan book series. You can order from Amazon HERE
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