Bond Falls is a waterfall located in the southern part of Michigan, within Haight Township in Ontonagon County, east of Paulding and near the Ontario River tributary. Bond Falls was formed as water flows over a fractured volcanic rock zone, creating a series of smaller cascades that combine into a single waterfall system. The total drop is about 50 feet. In winter, however, the trail can be quite challenging to navigate due to snow and icy conditions. Location: Haight Township, Ontonagon County, Michigan
Bond Falls
2 photos
Leaflet © OpenStreetMap
15m
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Bond Falls
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Bond Falls famous?
Bond Falls is one of Michigan's most photographed waterfalls, famous for its stunning wide cascading flow over layered rock shelves spanning approximately 100 feet. The waterfall's accessibility and well-designed viewing platforms make it a beloved Upper Peninsula destination, particularly popular for its dramatic appearance during spring runoff.
Can you swim at Bond Falls?
No — Bond Falls is a scenic waterfall with designated viewing platforms; swimming is not permitted or safe. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Bond Falls?
Dogs allowed on-leash on trails and viewing areas. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Bond Falls free? Do you need a permit?
Free — Bond Falls Scenic Site is a day-use area with no entry fee or permit required. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Bond Falls?
Free paved parking lot available at the Bond Falls Scenic Site with ample spaces. The viewing area and boardwalk are immediately accessible from the parking area. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Bond Falls?
Roadside — no hike required. Bond Falls features a short accessible boardwalk and staircase system from the parking lot, approximately 0.1 miles total to viewing platforms. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Bond Falls hike difficulty
Easy — paved parking area with accessible boardwalk and staircase viewing platforms. Some stairs to lower viewpoints but minimal elevation change. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Bond Falls?
Spring (April–June) for peak water flow from snowmelt, and fall (September–October) for beautiful foliage. Summer offers moderate flow and warm weather. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Bond Falls
From the parking lot, follow the accessible boardwalk directly to the upper viewing platform for head-on views of the falls. A staircase system descends along the west side of the falls, offering multiple viewing platforms at different levels. The lower platforms provide close-up views of the cascading water over the wide rock ledges.
Bond Falls official website
Attractions near Bond Falls
- •Agate Falls — scenic 40-foot waterfall about 20 miles northeast near Trout Creek
- •Lake Gogebic State Park — Michigan's largest inland lake, 20 miles west, offers boating and fishing
- •Ottawa National Forest — vast wilderness area with hiking, camping, and numerous waterfalls
- •Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park — 60 miles northwest, rugged wilderness with waterfalls
- •Paulding Light — local mystery phenomenon viewpoint about 5 miles north
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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