Canyon River Falls on Sturgeon River

Canyon River Falls is one of the most famous natural attractions in Baraga County. Here, the powerful Sturgeon River drops into a narrow box canyon, flowing dramatically between layers of slate rock walls before twisting through the canyon and eventually spreading into a wetland valley.

A roadside recreation area located just off US-41 provides easy access to the falls. The site includes a spacious parking area and well-kept walking paths that follow the river, cross Bacco Creek, and lead visitors directly to the main waterfall.

Exploring Beyond the Main Falls

Beyond the maintained trails, an additional footpath continues downstream along the river. This less-developed route offers access to two more noticeable cascades hidden within the canyon.

The first waterfall is a narrow drop that flows into a popular area where visitors often enjoy cliff jumping. Farther downstream is another cascade, sometimes confusingly referred to as Upper Falls, which is actually a long, divided rock slide that carries water out of the canyon and into the surrounding marshland.

Although this extended trail is not officially maintained by the park authorities, it is frequently used and relatively easy to follow for those wanting to explore more of the canyon.

How to Reach Canyon River Falls

Canyon River Falls is located about 10 miles south of L’Anse along US-41. The roadside park entrance is on the right side of the highway, just north of the bridge crossing the Sturgeon River.

Visitors can park at the seasonal roadside area and follow the crushed stone path toward the main waterfall. For a closer view, it may be necessary to carefully descend into the gorge and walk across some of the large, flat rocks that run alongside the river.

Discovering the Rest of the Canyon

To experience more of the canyon’s scenery, continue along the footpath beyond the main viewing area. The trail follows the river deeper into the box canyon, where additional drops can be found among the dramatic rock formations.

At the far end of the canyon lies Upper Falls, where the Sturgeon River leaves the narrow gorge and flows into a peaceful, green section of the river surrounded by natural beauty. This extended journey reveals the full character of Canyon River Falls and the rugged landscape that makes it such a special destination.