I was somewhat disappointed when I visited Agate Falls. I expected more and got less. Agate Falls is very close to M-28 in the Upper Peninsula, so it is not difficult to get to. When you get to the falls, though, you will end up at a platform that leads to a view above the falls. The problem is that this is not the most ideal viewpoint.
I have read elsewhere that people have walked down to view the falls from the base, but when I visited, that seemed very improbable. The platform essentially blocked that chance and there was also metal fencing. I surveyed around to see if there was any feasible way to get around this, but the area around the falls is surprisingly steep. There may be a way to do this, but it might not be extremely safe. I think the falls would be much more exciting if one could get a view from the base.
Directions:
- Parking for Agate Falls is found off of M-28 at Agate Falls Scenic Site. Heading west, the parking lot is on the left. You can also park at the ice cream shop on the right to get to the falls.
Accessibility: 10/10 (easy)
Height: 30′
Length of Hike: 0.3 miles round-trip
Agate Falls in August 2008
Where in the World is Agate Falls?
The Waterfall Record 
Nine years ago, I felt the same exact way when I first went to Agate Falls. Very very easy to get to, but you only see the top of the falls from the platform. Because I have seen beautiful pictures from the base of the falls and I wasn’t going to have any more regrets this trip, I was determined to get to the bottom. You have to take the “trail” on the left side of the wood platform trail before the railing starts in order to get to the bottom. There is a metal fence for a short distance on your left preventing you from going down to the river, but it does shortly end. Yes, it is a very very steep decent to get down, but it is feasible. Just be very careful. SO WORTH IT!!! The falls is completely different looking from the base of the falls than what you’ll ever see from the platform. There are “several shelves of rock” that the water travels over, making it very picturesque. Even at the mid-way point coming down, make sure you look at the falls and take a picture. That view is also very different than at the base or at the platform. It’s like seeing 3 completely different falls! It’s amazing what just a little different angle can do at Agate Falls.
Oh, and the climb back up, wooooooo. It’s a workout!
This is one of the best waterfalls you can see in Michigan, Heed the advice and take the path off the outlook, we had to go under the outlook itself to get to the trail. Damn, was it worth it. Wish I could upload a pic of the scene from the base of the falls, because it is surely majestic! The trail down is rough (maybe a 5/10) but it is so much worth it.