Madison Gap Falls is a small, well-hidden waterfall a few minutes outside Eagle Harbor, Michigan. Many people stop next to the road to see the upstream falls — however, the best view is located downstream. Here, the creek flows down a multi-tiered basalt slope and drops into a picture-perfect pool.
Load up on bug spray (the mosquitoes are plentiful) and enjoy the short hike; chances are, you won’t see another soul.
Hiking to Madison Gap Falls
To get the best view of Madison Gap Falls, you’ll need to do a short — and sometimes steep — hike. From either end of the bridge, hike downstream along the creek. You’ll be walking along a ridge above the river; once you hear the falls, find a spot to climb down.
Once you reach the water, walk back upstream to the waterfall. Most of the year, the water is low enough that you can climb right up the side of the falls.
How to Get to Madison Gap Falls
The Madison Gap waterfall is located near the Eagle Harbor Cut-Off Road, about 1.4 miles from Eagle Harbor and 18.5 miles north of Calumet.
Directions to Madison Gap Falls
- From Eagle Harbor, head south on the Eagle Harbor Cut-Off Road
- Drive 1.4 miles until you get to the bridge over Eliza Creek
You can park on the side of the road on either end of the bridge, but there’s more space on the side closest to Eagle Harbor. Make sure to pull off all the way.
What’s Nearby
The stretch between Eagle Harbor and Eagle River is packed with waterfalls. When you’re not in the mood for a hike, drive along M-203 and stop at Jacob’s Falls, Eagle River Falls, and Ten Foot Falls. They’re all super close to the road, and the route has beautiful views of Lake Superior. In the mood for an adventure? Keep driving on the Eagle Harbor Cut-Off Road and hike to Copper Adit Falls or Arnold Mine Falls.