Nawadaha Falls – Presque Isle River, Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

Over the past few days we have profiled some of the most stunning waterfalls in the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park. The towering Manabezho Falls and the scenic Manido Falls are easily-accessible favorites, and we now take a look at the third major waterfall on the Presque Isle River: Nawadaha Falls.

While a partial view of the falls can be had behind the ranger station, it’s hard to really get a feel for how wide and how beautiful these falls are. The best views come from the east bank, which is reached by taking the less than 2 mile loop hike that begins at Manabezho Falls. From Manabezho, cross the river and pick up the trail on the other side and follow it to all three falls.

A distant view of the falls can also be found at Manido Falls, where an observation deck directs visitors to look upstream at this elegant cascade. The video at the bottom of the page shows Manido Falls, but also features a glimpse of Nawadaha Falls towards its end.

Directions: From M-28 north of Wakefield, head north on CR-519 and follow it about 18 miles, crossing South Boundary Rd. and entering the park. Either park near the ranger station and follow that short path or follow signs to the parking lot for the falls and hiking trails, off to the right past the day-hike lot (campground is off to the left). Trails begin at the east end of the parking lot, the full loop hike will take a little over an hour.

Be prepared for: bugs, stairs and some steep hiking spots. Use caution on the eastern bank as there are no steps or rails in place.