Upper Michigan is a wonderland of natural beauty, and as the seasons shift to winter, the landscape transforms into a breathtaking display of frozen magic. Among the stunning snow-covered forests and icy lakes, the region’s waterfalls become dazzling sculptures of ice, attracting hikers, adventurers, and photographers alike. If you’re looking for a unique winter hiking trip, the frozen waterfalls of the Upper Peninsula should top your list.
In this post, we’ll guide you through the Top 5 Frozen Waterfalls to explore this winter, offering insight into the experience, tips for your journey, and all the reasons you should make this your next winter adventure.
The Power of Winter: Why Visit Frozen Waterfalls?
Winter is often overlooked as a prime time to explore the outdoors, but in Upper Michigan, the cold months offer a whole new perspective on nature. As temperatures drop, waterfalls freeze into magnificent ice sculptures. The rushing water turns to solid, icy cascades that glisten in the sunlight, transforming familiar hiking trails into winter wonderlands.
For hikers and waterfall enthusiasts, visiting during the winter offers several advantages:
- Unique Landscape: The stark contrast of white snow, blue ice, and dark, snowy forests creates a beautiful and surreal experience.
- Fewer Crowds: Unlike summer, when trails are crowded, winter hikes offer solitude and peaceful surroundings.
- Photographic Beauty: Frozen waterfalls are a dream for photographers, with opportunities to capture stunning, crystal-clear ice formations.
- Physical Challenge: Winter hikes present a fun, invigorating physical challenge, pushing your limits while rewarding you with extraordinary sights.
The Top 5 Frozen Waterfalls in Upper Michigan
1. Tahquamenon Falls
Tahquamenon Falls is the crown jewel of Michigan waterfalls, and it’s even more enchanting when frozen in winter. Located in Tahquamenon Falls State Park, the Upper Falls—the largest waterfall in Michigan—plunges nearly 50 feet. During the winter months, this waterfall turns into a massive wall of ice, surrounded by snow-laden trees. The park’s winter trails make it accessible to hikers, snowshoers, and cross-country skiers.
Why Visit?
- The massive ice formation is a marvel to witness.
- The surrounding forest looks like something out of a snow globe.
- From Newberry, head west on M-123 to the park entrance.
- Park at the Lower Falls day-use area.
- The Upper Falls is about a 1-mile hike on a groomed trail.
2. Munising Falls
Situated within Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Munising Falls is one of the easiest waterfalls to access in winter. The 50-foot waterfall freezes into an ethereal curtain of ice, with a crystal-clear blue hue that contrasts sharply with the snow. The park service maintains the trail to the waterfall, so it’s a great destination for winter hikers of all experience levels.
Why Visit?
- Easy access, just a short walk from the parking lot.
- A stunning frozen waterfall with mesmerizing ice formations.
- From Munising, head east on H-58 for about a mile to the Munising Falls parking lot.
- The waterfall is an easy 800-foot walk on a groomed path.
3. Miners Falls
Miners Falls, also located in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, is a 40-foot waterfall that becomes a towering, icy column in winter. The hike to the falls is peaceful, surrounded by thick forests blanketed in snow. Although the path can be challenging with deep snow, the frozen waterfall is a spectacular reward.
Why Visit?
- A quiet, serene hike through the snow-covered forest.
- The waterfall freezes into a massive column of ice, making it a sight to behold.
- From Munising, follow H-58 to Miners Castle Road and park in the Miners Falls parking lot.
- The trail to the falls is about 1.2 miles round trip but can be challenging with snow cover.
4. Bond Falls
Bond Falls is a year-round favorite in Michigan’s western Upper Peninsula. The waterfall spans 100 feet wide with several tiers of cascading water. In winter, the falls freeze into intricate layers of ice, with sections of water still flowing beneath the ice, creating a mesmerizing mix of movement and stillness.
Why Visit?
- One of the widest waterfalls in the UP, offering multiple viewpoints for photography.
- The contrast of ice and flowing water makes for an incredible sight.
- From Paulding, head east on Bond Falls Road to the parking area.
- The falls are just a short walk from the parking lot, with plenty of scenic spots along the river.
5. Eagle River Falls
Located in the Keweenaw Peninsula, Eagle River Falls is a smaller yet charming waterfall. It’s easily accessible and, in winter, freezes into an intricate ice formation that reflects the frigid beauty of the surrounding region. It’s a perfect spot for a quick stop on a winter road trip through the Keweenaw.
Why Visit?
- Quick and easy access for all visitors, even in winter.
- A picturesque frozen waterfall ideal for a quick photo stop.
- Located right off M-26 in Eagle River, you can park in the roadside lot and walk to the falls in just a few minutes.
How to Hike to These Top 5 Frozen Waterfalls: Gear, Tips, and Safety
Essential Gear for Winter Waterfall Hikes
When hiking to these top 5 frozen waterfalls, it’s important to be well-prepared for cold temperatures and icy conditions. Here’s what you should pack:
- Layered Clothing: Start with moisture-wicking base layers, add insulating layers like fleece, and top it off with a waterproof, windproof outer shell.
- Insulated Boots with Traction: Wear insulated waterproof boots, and consider using microspikes or crampons for icy trails.
- Trekking Poles: These help with balance and stability on slippery paths.
- Water and Snacks: Even in cold weather, staying hydrated and energized is essential.
- Map and GPS: While many trails are well-marked, it’s smart to carry a map, especially if snow covers the path.
Safety Tips for Winter Hiking
- Start Early: Winter days are shorter, so plan your hike with enough daylight.
- Check Weather Conditions: Sudden snowstorms can make hiking dangerous, so always check the forecast before heading out.
- Use Trail Maps: Download or carry paper maps, as some trails may be less visible due to snow cover.
- Let Someone Know: Inform a friend or family member of your hiking plans and expected return time.
Why Winter Hiking is Fun
There’s a quiet beauty in the winter landscape that you won’t find at any other time of the year. The snow blankets everything, muffling sounds and creating a peaceful environment. The cold, crisp air invigorates the body, and seeing the top 5 frozen waterfalls is an experience unlike any other. Plus, the solitude of the trails in winter can make you feel like you have the entire wilderness to yourself.
Enjoy These Top 5 Frozen Waterfalls
Winter hiking in Upper Michigan is a magical experience, and exploring frozen waterfalls is the highlight of any trip. From the towering ice formations of Tahquamenon Falls to the serene beauty of Munising Falls, these natural wonders offer a unique blend of adventure and tranquility.
If you’re planning a winter hiking trip to the Upper Peninsula, don’t miss these Top 5 Frozen Waterfalls. They showcase the raw beauty of nature, especially in the quieter, snowy months.
What do you think—have you visited any of these top 5 frozen waterfalls, or are you planning to? Let us know in the comments below!