First off, apparently this set of waterfalls may have slightly different names. I thought it was the set of Lower Hogger Falls, but it also could be called West Branch Sturgeon Falls. There are four of them on the West Branch Sturgeon River, and none of them are particularly tall.  During the fall, when the colors are changing, they are beautiful.

When we showed up to find Hogger Falls, which is also on the same river just upstream, we ended up finding these 4 falls instead. Just a few days earlier, it had rained considerably, which meant that the falls were flowing well. The tannins in the water provided a beautiful golden color to the water, which only adds to the scenic nature of the area. This particular waterfall might be the largest of the four falls, but it is also the most difficult to photograph, as there isn’t really a good place to stand to view the falls. That may be different if the water in the river is lower.

Directions:

1. We took MI-38 west out of Baraga and headed for a ways on M-38.
2. After traveling west on M-38, you will come to Newberry Road, which will be on your left.
3. Turn left onto Newberry Road and head 3 miles south on the dirt road.
4. After about 3 miles, you’ll come to a “road” on your left. If you go any further, you’ll end up at the West Branch Sturgeon River, where the bridge is out. If you turn around and head north, I guess it’s the first “road” on your right.
5. We had to stop at that road because it was blocked by a gate, and I’m not necessarily sure I would head down that road anyway.
6. From the gate, start hiking east down the road. Keep going until it appear that the road “ends”. It seemed to be blocked by a pile of dirt and trees, though there was a trail that wrapped around to the right.
7. Follow that trail to the right, which heads to the river. Depending on where you end up, you’ll likely see a waterfall. The first waterfall we saw was not easily visible. I then headed back west following the river very closely. This is the third fall we saw along the river. I wouldn’t be surprised if there are numerous more that just can’t be seen very easily. You’re often considerably high above the river!

Accessibility: 9/10 (easy)
Height: 6′
Length of Hike: 2.2 miles round-trip

West Branch Sturgeon Falls #1 in October 2010

Where in the World is West Branch Sturgeon Falls #1?