Bond Falls Loop
00:45
2.83km
30m
Hiking
The Bond Falls Loop offers a captivating journey through Michigan's Upper Peninsula, centered around the impressive, multi-tiered Bond Falls. You'll experience a mix of terrain, from accessible paved walkways and boardwalks leading to prime waterfall viewpoints, to more rugged dirt paths that wind through dense forest alongside the river. The trail provides multiple perspectives of the 50-foot high, 100-foot wide cascade, allowing you to get close enough to feel the mist, while also offering glimpses of the serene Bond Falls Flowage upstream. This easy 1.8-mile (2.8 km) hike, with only 97 feet (29 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 45 minutes, making it a perfect outing for nearly everyone.
Planning your visit to Bond Falls is straightforward, with the Bond Falls Day Use Area serving as a convenient starting point. You'll find amenities like picnic areas and restrooms, and there are camping options nearby for those wishing to extend their stay. While the initial approach to the falls is wheelchair-friendly, be aware that the full loop includes natural sections with stairs and potentially slippery rocks, especially after rain. Autumn is a particularly popular time to visit due to the vibrant fall foliage, but the trail is open year-round, though winter conditions mean unmonitored snow and ice.
Bond Falls stands out as one of Michigan's most striking and popular waterfalls, renowned for its sheer size and unique multi-tiered cascade over fractured rock ledges. Its accessibility, combined with the option for a more immersive natural trail experience, makes it a favorite for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike. A dam upstream helps maintain a consistent flow over the falls, ensuring a spectacular view, and the surrounding forest transforms dramatically with the seasons, adding to its natural beauty.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
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309 m
Bond Falls
Highlight • Waterfall
Translated by Google •
Tip by
1.70 km
Bond Falls Day Use Area
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
2.83 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
1.21 km
915 m
702 m
Surfaces
1.21 km
677 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Thursday 9 July
27°C
14°C
2 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 16.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park to access the Bond Falls Loop trail?
Parking is available at the Bond Falls Day Use Area. This is the primary access point for the loop.
Is the Bond Falls Loop trail dog-friendly?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the Bond Falls Loop trail. As it's located within the Ottawa National Forest, please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you clean up after them to preserve the natural environment for all visitors.
What is the best time of year to hike the Bond Falls Loop?
The trail offers beautiful scenery year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and strong water flow, while autumn showcases vibrant fall colors. Summer is popular for pleasant weather. Even in winter, the frozen falls create a unique spectacle, though some sections might be slippery.
Are there any permits or fees required to hike this trail?
No specific hiking permits are required for the Bond Falls Loop trail itself. However, as it's part of the Ottawa National Forest, a day-use fee or a recreation pass (such as the America the Beautiful Pass) may be required for parking at the Bond Falls Day Use Area. Please check current regulations upon arrival.
What are the different sections of the trail like?
The trail offers a varied experience. A significant portion features a gently graded paved path and boardwalks, providing easy access and excellent views of Bond Falls. For those seeking a more immersive experience, the loop extends into surrounding woods with dirt paths, steps, and some hills, offering views of smaller cascades upstream and a different perspective of the river.
How long does it typically take to hike the Bond Falls Loop?
The Bond Falls Loop is approximately 2.8 kilometers (1.75 miles) long. Most hikers can complete the loop in about 45 minutes to an hour, depending on their pace and how much time they spend enjoying the viewpoints and waterfalls.
What can I see along the route?
The main attraction is the spectacular Bond Falls, which you can view from multiple perspectives and platforms. Beyond the main falls, the loop takes you through dense forest, offering scenic river views and the chance to spot wildlife. You'll also find numerous smaller waterfalls and cascades upstream from the main falls.
Is the trail suitable for families with young children or strollers?
Yes, a significant portion of the trail, particularly the boardwalks and paved sections around the main falls, is very family-friendly and accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. The extended loop sections, however, involve stairs, dirt paths, and some hills, which might be more challenging for very young children or strollers.
What makes Bond Falls unique compared to other waterfalls in Michigan?
Bond Falls is renowned for its impressive size, being 50 feet high and over 100 feet wide, cascading dramatically over rock ledges. Its excellent accessibility, with multiple viewing platforms and boardwalks, allows visitors of all ages and abilities to experience its grandeur, making it one of Michigan's most striking and accessible waterfalls.
What should I pack for a hike on this loop?
Even for this relatively short loop, it's wise to bring water, especially on warmer days. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and if you plan to explore the dirt paths, shoes with good grip are advisable as stairs can be wet. Don't forget your camera for the scenic views!
Are there any facilities available at the trailhead?
Yes, the Bond Falls Day Use Area typically provides restrooms and picnic areas, making it a convenient spot for a break before or after your hike.
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