Yondota Falls

This easily reached yet secluded spot on the Upper Presque Isle River in the Ottawa National Forest is an unsung treasure for people who like their waterfall experiences unencumbered by signs and crowds. It's actually a series of small waterfalls in a valley shaded by huge old-growth hemlocks and pines. A short walk takes you to the top of the falls. The water drops several hundred feet in a quarter mile. A foot trail follows the falls. A local waterfall fan enjoys Yondota Falls more than the famous falls where the Black River and Presque Isle River flow into Lake Superior. It's the favorite waterfall of Randy Charles, an Ottawa National Forest veteran.

In the Ottawa National Forest about 15 miles east of Wakefield, it's not far from U.S. 2, so it makes a nice stop for downstate Michigan vacationers starting the long drive home.
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MARENISCO
POINTS OF INTEREST

Wolf Mountain. In this undeveloped forestland is the far western U.P.'s highest point, with great views both east and west ... more

Yondota Falls. From U.S. 2 exactly opposite the Marenisco turnoff, turn north onto CR 523. Go 3 miles north, up to and over the bridge across the Presque Isle River. Park on the road's west side just over the bridge. Trail starts here. This is 15 miles east of Wakefield. ... more

Nelson Canyon Falls/Ottawa National Forest. It's not easy to get to, but the reward is the view of an exceptionally beautiful, little-known waterfall ... more

Kakabika Falls. Well worth the drive north of U.S. 2, this is a terrific stretch of river ... more

Pomeroy/Henry Lake Mountain Bike Complex

A hundred miles of loops on gravel roads are shared by occasional motorists and anglers. This is an easy, family mountain bike complex in a beautiful area of small lakes and wetlands on Ottawa National Forest land south and southwest of Marenisco. A map of the trails is included in the big "Pines and Mines" mountain bicycling map produced by tourism people in Gogebic County, Michigan, and neighboring Iron County, Wisconsin. The Ironwood Welcome Center and Ottawa Visitor Center in Watersmeet should stock the map, too. Ask for it.

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