Discovering a Hidden Gem - Tannery Falls

Munising, Michigan (USA) is at the western end of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.  This scenic park located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula stretches along the shoreline of Lake Superior from Grand Marais to Munising.  It has a lot to offer in scenic beauty and recreational opportunities.  For us, that means hiking the trails.

At the Visitor Center, we get current trail information.  We have been here many times and this time we want to do something we haven't seen or done … like hiking to Tannery Falls (aka Rudy M. Olson Memorial Falls).

We park the car on Washington Street and cross H-58 where a wooden staircase (maybe 17 steps) goes up the side of the hill to the trail.  From here, the trail is easy to follow.  During our short walk to the falls, we pass by high sandstone cliffs that gently curve along the trail.

Sandstone Cliff

The trail continues to hug the sandstone cliffs and at times we even walk under the overhanging edges.

Overhanging Sandstone Cliff

The walk is so quiet and pleasant.  We have the beautiful sandstone cliff on our right side and down the ridge is Tannery Creek on our left side.

We don’t see Tannery Falls – it comes into view at the last minute.  We cross a short wooden plank foot bridge over the narrow creek and go up the short steep hill to the top for a better view of Tannery Falls (40’ drop) 

Foot Bridge to Tannery Falls

Tannery Falls

After the water falls down into a small pool, it follows the curve in the sandstone wall.  Then, it passes under the foot bridge and continues on its merry way. 

Tannery Creek

We spend some time here enjoying the quiet scenery of this hidden gem.

For more photos and information on visiting Pictured Rocks, I invite you to view my blog post on "Picturesque Pictured Rocks NLS" by clicking on the following link:

Pictured Rocks NLS

The Munising/Wetmore area has a variety of lodging options from National chain hotels to locally- owned places to stay.  Dining choices include subs, pizza, pasties (similar to a pot pie) and casual dining places.   Since opinions, budgets, and preferences vary, I recommend checking a trusted travel source for current reviews on food and lodging.

Family vacations created some of my favorite memories. To start planning your memorable trip to Pictured Rocks NLS, please click on the following link:

Pictured Rocks NLS