Bond Falls


October 2006

State: Michigan

Location: Western part of the U.P., on Bond Falls Rd, east of Paulding MI.

Height: 40

Crest: 100+

Water Source: Middle Branch Ontonagon River

Waypoint: 46.40889N 89.13278W

Summary: This is the best single waterfall in the Western U.P, and the second best waterfall in Michigan. If you are in the Western U.P., possibly on your way to or from the Porcupines or Copper Harbor, this is a definitely worth a stop.

Bond Falls is in the western U.P. on Bond Falls Rd, east of Pauding MI. This is the most impressive waterfall in Michigan with the possible exception of Tahquamenon Falls. The main drop is 40 feet high and 100+ feet wide. Above the main falls are a series of cascades and rapids that must drop a total of 20 feet.

The water level is controlled by a dam, and a steady flow over the falls is maintained for scenic reasons. Of course during the spring melt the flow is much higher.

Bond Fall is a Michigan State Scenic Site. The site was renovated around 2003. The old parking area was upstream of the falls, and a steep concrete stairway led to the base of the falls. The new parking area is near the base of the falls, and a level boardwalk leads you to prime views of the falls. The area is not quite as wild looking as it once was, but it is accessible to everyone. The trail on the east side of the falls is still wild with some steep rocky climbs. There are other trails that go off into the woods, and there are campsites nearby.

In addition to being very picturesque, this is a very popular waterfall, and unless you visit early in the morning or in winter, you are going to have a lot of company.

Here is a short movie of Bond Falls. Here is a movie from the other side.

[Lake Superior] Nearby Falls

Agate Falls, another scenic site, is just around the corner. From Bond Falls, go east on Bond Falls Road. Take a left(west) onto MI-28. The Agate Falls roadside park will be on your left after about 2-3 miles.

Photo Gallery


Part of the upper cascades

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Last Modified: Saturday, 19-Sep-2009 15:19:57 MDT.

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