Distance: 212 Miles
Driving Time: 3 hours, 54 minutes
When it comes to fall foliage, the Upper Peninsula region of Michigan tends to boast colors sooner than the rest of the state. This stunning backdrop is enhanced by the rumble and majestic appearance of waterfalls found on stretches along the UP’s many rivers. This driving tour will take you to six, but it’s simple to stretch your itinerary as the Upper Peninsula is home to hundreds of waterfalls.
Waterfall #1: Wagner Falls, Munising
Munising is a quaint little town with a small beach on Lake Superior, a marina, shops, restaurants. It’s also one of the gateways to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and a departure point for exploring the Pictured Rocks by boat. Wagner Falls is located off of M-28, less than two miles south of Munising. It’s easy to reach the falls, as it’s a short walk down a travel trail and boardwalk to a small observation platform. If you’re looking to go hiking, pick up the North Country Trail via a trailhead parking lot two miles west of Wagner Falls.
Waterfall #2: Munising Falls, Munising
Although the Munising Falls Trail has been closed since spring 2025 due to being washed out, we can’t not include Munising Falls in this tour. It’s located within the city limits of Munising. The 800-foot trail leads up to a shaded canyon and two platforms to view the 50-foot waterfall. What makes Munising Falls worth visiting is its dramatic appearance: the falls drop over a high sandstone cliff. Keep an eye out on the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore website for when this trail is reopened.
Waterfall #3: Scott Falls, Au Train
Drive west toward Wisconsin toward the town of Au Train. The falls, east of town, are visible from the highway and drop 10 feet from a sandstone cliff into a small pool. It’s one of those easy pit stops you can make on the way to your next destination. There is a parking turnout in front of the falls. Its star feature, however, is the small cave located behind the falls that is perfectly accessible for explorers.
Waterfall #4: Canyon Falls, L’Anse
Now it’s time to get in the vehicle or RV and drive 99 miles toward the Upper Peninsula town of L’Anse. Canyon Falls, 15 miles south of there, is nestled along the Sturgeon River, but it’s anything but quaint. It’s referred to as the Grand Canyon of Michigan, if that gives any indication. Although not as large as the Grand Canyon, the falls are impressive, with the main waterfall dropping 30 feet and then again and again throughout a 300-foot slate gorge. There’s a two-mile roundtrip hike that is considered easy to moderate, with the main trail following the bottom of the gorge. There are opportunities to climb to the top of the gorge for more views.
If you really want, drive 27 miles (about a 45-minute drive) to Michigan’s highest natural point, Mt. Arvon – it’s the perfect way to see the stunning and colorful landscape in the autumn.
Waterfall #5: Agate Falls, Trout Creek
Agate Fall is considered one of the most picturesque falls in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Located along he Ontonagon River, there’s a half-mile trail that reaches an observation platform. The falls are nearly 40 feet high and drop over terraced sandstone, providing a cascading effect and several small waterfalls. There’s a tunnel under M-28 so that you can view the railroad trestles above you.
Waterfall #6: Hungarian Falls, Hubbell
Our final stop is Hungarian Falls in the Keweenaw Peninsula. This is actually a series of falls within Dover Creek, ranging from 15 to 50 feet high. Choose to hike from the base, middle, or top of the trail. You can get up close to the falls as well. Since you’re only seven miles from college town Houghton, finish the day off there with some well-earned libations.