Alder Falls

located along Alder Creek

Alder Falls

October 19, 2008
(album) (log)

Falls:
Water Flow:
Region:
Walk:
Drive:
Description:
Set of four drops located between a swamp and Lake Independence. Lower waterfall is the largest by far, with water going over several small drops before fanning out over a steep rock face. Going upstream, the next drop is split by a rock formation and slides along a slanted rock slab. The third falls is around the large bend to the left and has two drops, all slanted oddly with the rock direction, and drops into a very deep pool between two huge rock lumps. Uppermost drop is the smallest and is a short distance from the third falls and is a small, steep chute.
Location:
Marquette County at 46°46' 54.67" N, 87°42' 26.91" W (map)
Nearby Falls:
Bushy Creek Falls (3.3 miles), Yellow Dog Falls (3.7 miles), Big Pup Falls (4.8 miles), Hogback Falls (6.9 miles)
Area:
Well-traveled rocky area near Lake Independence and Big Bay. Several good rocky overlooks tower near the upper falls. Forest is mostly cedar and open near the creek.
Trail:
20 minutes one-way
Follow the path downhill to the lowermost falls. Climb either side of the falls here and go upstream a short distance to see the second falls. Either continue heading upstream along the creek or climb the tall hill on the west side of the creek to see the third falls, emptying into a very deep pond surrounded by towering rock cliffs. Head upstream from here, climbing down the rocks when possible, to view the fourth falls. A swampy area is upstream of the last falls.
Drive:
2 hours 35 mins from Houghton, MI (change)
Driving Directions