Tahquamenon Falls Backcountry Access Road

While tourists crowd the main Tahquamenon Falls boardwalks, this forgotten logging road approaches the Upper Falls from the wilderness side through 18 miles of dense hardwood forest. Built in the 1940s to harvest white pine, the old two-track still shows remnants of corduroy construction where crews laid logs across the worst bog holes. You’ll encounter several seasonal creek crossings and navigate around massive blowdowns that create natural chicanes through stands of towering maples and birch.

Moderate difficulty requiring high-clearance 4WD, especially during spring runoff when creek crossings deepen and mud holes expand. Best season runs June through early October when mosquitoes subside and fall colors explode. No permits required, but check for active logging operations. Dispersed camping allowed in state forest sections. The payoff is accessing one of Michigan’s most iconic waterfalls without the crowds — just you, the roar of 50,000 gallons per minute, and some of the Upper Peninsula’s most pristine wilderness.