Waterfall Beauty on Michigan's Upper Peninsula

Michigan's Upper Peninsula is home to almost 200 major named falls, plus countless smaller, anonymous ones. With its concentration of tumbling rivers that flow into Lake Superior, the western corner of the UP offers the most waterfalls in the most compact area. Sixty-five significant falls punctuate Ontonagon and Gogebic counties alone. Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park claims dozens of waterfalls, including a spectacular series easily accessible along the half-mile boardwalk of the Presque Isle River Scenic Area.

While spring brings the most abundant water, autumn can be the most scenic season to explore, as cooler temperatures invite you to hike through rainbow-colored forests. Tap ahead for some photo inspirations for your visit. Pictured: Waterfall along the Presque Isle River in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park.

Bond Falls on the middle branch of the Ontonagon River ranks with the most photogenic attractions of the UP.

Fall colors reflect in a closeup of Bond Falls.

A few miles west of Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, the Black River National Forest Scenic Byway runs almost parallel to the Presque Isle River, with five major falls each a short hike from a roadside parking lot.

Along the Black River near Gorge Falls, the water rushes through woods colored by autumn hues.

Golden light reflects off the water at Cascade Falls.

Two trails lead to Cascade Falls on the west branch of the Ontonagon River. The Valley Trail is shorter and more convenient, while the Bluff Trail demands a more exhilarating climb for the serious hiker. A panorama of the wooded valley below justifies the exertion, allowing you to see for miles.

Fall leaves catch the sunlight on a log in the Ontanagon River.

Red leaves and yellow scatter along a hiking trail in Gogebic County, Michigan.

The rapids of Mandido Falls curve along the Presque Isle River in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park.

A red leaf floats above a bed of pebbles near Bonanza Falls on the Big Iron River.