Difficulty: Moderate
Presque Isle River Waterfalls Loop Trail is located near Wakefield in Michigan’s Gogebic County. This is a 2.3 mile (3.7 km) loop trail on the western edge of Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. The hike includes sections of boardwalk and stairs, wooded trail, a suspension bridge and three main waterfalls of the Presque Isle River. The waterfalls include, Manabezho Falls, Manido Falls and Nawadaha Falls.
Manabezho Falls is the largest drop on the river at approximately 25 feet (7.6 m) high and 150 feet (45.7 m) wide. This is the first falls you will encounter on the trail. There is an overlook at the top of the falls and it can be seen from either side of the river on this loop trail. The falls is named after the Ojibway god Manabezho.
Manido Falls is the second and smallest waterfall you will encounter on this trail. It has a drop of about 15 feet (4.5 m) and has a crest between 50 and 150 feet (15m – 45.7m) depending on the amount of water flowing – spring is the best time. A set of stairs will lead you to an overlook above the falls. Manido is an Ojibway word meaning “spirit” or “ghost”.
Nawadaha Falls is the final waterfall on this trail. This may be considered the most scenic of the three. It has a drop of about 15 feet (4.5 m) and has a crest up to 150 feet (45.7m). There is a natural viewing platform above the falls as well as a short trail that leads to it on the east side of the river. Nawadaha is Ojibway for “in the midst of rapids”.
Leashed dogs allowed. Parking available at the Presque Isle Scenic Area.
For a full list of hiking trails visit the Lake Superior Hiking Trails Blog
For a full list of waterfalls visit the Lake Superior Waterfalls Blog
