The Right Way: A Guide to Visiting the Keweenaw’s Montreal Falls
COPPER HARBOR—Local landowners and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) are encouraging visitors to access Montreal Falls through Fish Cove in Copper Harbor. Montreal Falls, unspoiled by tourist crowds and a little rugged, lies off the beaten path. The trail from Fish Cove takes you along the rocky lake and is not a maintained trail. Be prepared to navigate without cell service through dense Keweenaw forest on this backcountry hike.
In a remote place like Montreal Falls, you'll travel safer in a pack. Photo courtesy of Nathan "Invincible" Miller.
Be aware: it is trespassing to access Montreal Falls via Smith Fisheries Road. Here’s how to do it the right way. As always, please practice Leave No Trace principles on your adventure.
DIRECTIONS:
The adventure to Montreal Falls takes you on a journey of excitement and wonder. You’ll see breathtaking views of Keweenaw County but make sure you try it during the summer for firm trails and no snowmelt.
Start at Copper Harbor: The nearest public bathroom is in Copper Harbor. So, plan to make it your starting point. There are no amenities at the falls, so we recommend you use facilities in Copper Harbor before heading out.
Take the Mandan Road: From Copper Harbor, go east on US-41 until you reach the end of the highway. It turns to a dirt road. Go forward on Mandan Road for about 7.5 miles, then turn left onto Hoar Lake/Fish Cove Road. NOTE: This is a two-track, unpaved former logging road. High-clearance vehicles are recommended.
Reach Hoar Lake: Once you reach the Hoar Lake/Fish Cove turnoff, follow directional signs to Fish Cove. Once you’re there, you’ll see a rustic parking lot.
Find Montreal Falls: From the rustic parking lot at Fish Cove, you can hike a short distance south to the shore of Lake Superior. There, you will see a foot-worn hiking path that heads west along the lake. Continue hiking for about a mile until you encounter the serene and beautiful lower Montreal Falls.
Remember, Montreal Falls is not a manicured trail. You will need to be prepared with a map or a GPS to stay alert through your hike. You will lose cell phone service. Remember to pack water and wear sturdy footwear. Consider starting your hike early in the day to avoid walking back in the dark. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, consider camping in the surrounding Michigan State Forestland. Be sure to get the right permits. Check out the Visit Keweenaw bug guide, and bring bug spray on your hike to keep insects at bay.
Look for a rustic parking lot. That's your spot to access Montreal Falls. Photo courtesy of Visit Keweenaw.
Again, there are no amenities at Montreal Falls, so come prepared. Pack in everything you’ll need for your trek – like water and food. Always recreate responsibly and carry out everything you pack in. Keep Montreal Falls beautiful for the next people who visit.
Montreal Falls is owned by the State of Michigan. The land was bought nearly 20 years ago to keep it forever in the public trust. The falls and surrounding lands are part of the vast Michigan State Forest system. The management and preservation of the land falls under the Michigan DNR. The state-owned status indicates the area is open to the public and encourages exploration and appreciation of the falls. Visitors should make sure they follow state regulations regarding the use of state forest lands.
Respect the environment by staying on marked trails to avoid damaging the local flora and making sure you don’t leave any trash behind.