An Insiders Guide for Visiting Au Train Falls in Michigan

Where is Au Train Falls located?

If you are visiting the Munising area, home to the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, you aren't too far away!

Escape the noise and chaos of everyday life and step into a world of the natural splendor of the beautiful waterfalls that await your visit to Au Train Falls.

The falls are nestled in the Hiawatha National Forest in the heart of Michigan's Upper Peninsula.

More specifically, the directions to Au Train Falls are County Highway 533 Au Train Township, in Alger County, about twenty minutes southwest of Munising, near the junction of M-94 and Au Train Forest Lake Road.

Immerse yourself in the picturesque landscapes of the Au Train River as it creates two scenic falls to enjoy, aptly named the Lower Au Train Falls and the Upper Au Train Falls.

Lower Au Train Falls in the winter. Ice is forming on the right side of the falls. The falls are surrounded by pine trees and the ground is covered with snow.

The Upper Falls boast a 40-foot drop, showing off the river's powerful dance. As you move downstream, the Lower Falls make a more modest yet charming descent of around 10 feet.

Parking is available at the first turn for the Upper Falls and at the end of the road for the Lower Falls parking area.

The trail to the Lower Falls is straightforward and just an uphill climb on a dirt road; the Upper Falls trail can be a little muddy. The trails to the separate falls are both a short distance from the parking areas.

The gate that blocks traffic from accessing the falls directly. A few signs that identify the area and state how far it is to reach the falls. Photo was taken in the winter and there are about 2 inches of snow on the ground with footprints through the snow.

Best Time to Visit Au Train Falls

While these falls aren't the drama queens of waterfalls, they might play hard to get in dry years, offering just a trickle.

But they're in full swing come spring, showcasing nature's resilience and beauty. Mother Nature likes to keep us on our toes, but fortunately for me, every time I've gone, the water levels have been high enough that I've gotten to see a decent flow!

Fall colors are great at these falls along the Au Train River – especially with the contrasting cool color of the bedrock!

Lower Au Train Falls in the summer. The falls are surrounded by pine trees.

Au Train Falls Tips

There is a picnic table at the lower falls – that is a singular picnic table. Take your chances, pack a picnic, and enjoy a meal alongside the falls to reconnect with nature.

Be sure to pack your water shoes to venture onto the bedrock. The whole family can enjoy splashing about in the water. The water is generally shallow, but there is a spot about six feet deep.

Nearby Waterfalls

There are plenty of waterfalls in the area to enjoy.

Wagner Falls

Just a short drive away from downtown Munising, Wagner Falls captivates with its peaceful setting. The falls gracefully plunges 20 feet. The 0.2-mile out-and-back trail to the falls is beautiful all year round.

Parking is available at the roadside. Sometimes, the lot is plowed in the winter, but not always.

Wagner Falls in the winter. Ice is forming on the falls. The falls are surrounded by pine trees and the ground is covered with snow.

Laughing Whitefish Falls

For a more secluded experience, make your way to Laughing Whitefish Falls and hike the one-mile out-and-back trail to explore the falls. The hike will take about 25 minutes.

These falls boast a generous drop and are surrounded by lush greenery, making it one of the best waterfalls in Michigan. This waterfall is a hidden gem for those who enjoy the road less traveled.

Visit during April and November for the best experience! It's also a great place to snowshoe in the winter months.

Laughing Whitefish Falls in the summer. Water flowing down a rocky slope with green trees in the background on the top of the rock outcroping.

Munising Falls

Venture a bit further to discover Munising Falls, a true spectacle tucked into the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The water cascades down a sheer rock face, creating a cathedral-like ambiance.

The short, paved trail to the falls provides a taste of the beauty that awaits, making it accessible for all.

This waterfall is accessible year-round and in the winter and creates a unique ice column!

Munising Falls in the summer - surrounded with green trees.

Miners Falls

This waterfall is nestled in the heart of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. The 50-foot high falls drop gracefully over a sandstone cliff. Parking is available at Miners Castle Road.

The trail to Miners Falls is a 1.2-mile out-and-back hike and will take about 30 minutes to walk.

Spring and fall are both great times to visit. Road restrictions are in place during the snowy season.

If you want to hit the beach, continue down the path past the falls to reach Lake Superior.

Miners Falls in the summer - surrounded with green trees on top of the rock faces next to the falls.

FAQ's

Where should I stay if I want to visit Au Train Falls?

Finding a hotel in Munising, MI will be your best option if that is your travel style. If you prefer to camp, there are camping grounds in the area. I'd recommend Munising Tourist Park Campground, for a great view right along Lake Superior.

Is Au Train Falls accessible year-round?

Yes, the falls are accessible all year round! The winter months may be a bit more challenging if there is a lot of snow. Consider packing snow shoes or ice cleats for traction.

What else is there to do near Au Train Falls?

Munising has plenty to keep your schedule full and is only about twenty minutes away. You could easily spend a week exploring the area!

Final Thoughts: Au Train Falls

As we wrap up this insider's guide to Au Train Falls, I can't help but reflect on the hidden beauty that awaits those who seek it.

Tucked away in the heart of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, these falls invite you to step into a world where nature paints a canvas of serene waterfalls, each with its own unique charm.

And if you find yourself hungry for more, the nearby waterfalls—Wagner Falls, Laughing Whitefish Falls, Munising Falls, and Miners Falls—each add their own melody to the symphony of nature. From peaceful settings to secluded experiences, there's a waterfall for every explorer.

If you enjoyed this post, you might also enjoy adding it to a road trip through the Upper Peninsula of Michigan!

Happy waterfall chasing!

Best Things To Do In Munising, MI

Best Hotels Near Pictured Rocks

Unique Michigan Upper Peninsula Road Trips

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Chasing Waterfalls in Michigan's Upper Peninsula Au Train Falls. A summer time photo of the waterfall with lush green trees in the background.

Au Train Falls tips to know before you go. Au Train Falls in the winter - ice forming on falls with pine trees in the background. Snow on the ground.

Guide to Au Train Falls and nearby waterfalls in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Photos of: Laughing Whitefish Falls, Miners Falls, and Au Train Falls all in the summer time.

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