Manido Falls is a 12-foot wide cascade on the Presque Isle River in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Gogebic County, Michigan. It is the middle of three named falls on the river's lowest stretch, between Nawadaha Falls upstream and Manabezho Falls downstream, and the loop trail of the Presque Isle River Scenic Site passes it on both banks.
The falls
Lidar measurements indicate a drop of about 12 feet in a single step across a wide, steep cascade, though older surveys listed 25 feet. The crest spreads from about 50 to 150 feet wide depending on river flow; Wikipedia calls it the smallest of the Presque Isle River falls. The dark, tannin-stained water pours over bedrock ledges typical of the northern forest country.
Getting there
The falls are in the Presque Isle River Scenic Site at the western end of the park, managed by the Michigan DNR. A large parking lot serves the river trails. The West River Trail (1.1 miles) has boardwalks, stairs and viewing platforms, while the East River Trail (1.2 miles) is rougher, with roots and muddy sections. The combined loop spans 3 miles with 609 feet of elevation gain, rated moderate, and reaches Manido Falls about half a mile from the start on the west side. A Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicles: $15 a year for Michigan plates, or $12 a day and $42 a year for nonresidents.
When to go
Flow peaks with spring snowmelt in April and May, when trails are often muddy. The park's South Boundary Road closes to vehicles in winter.
On site
Swimming and wading in the Presque Isle River are prohibited, and park rules advise keeping close watch on children near the water. The boardwalks get slippery when wet. Dogs are allowed on a leash no longer than six feet.
History and name
Manido comes from an Ojibwe word meaning spirit or ghost.
Nearby
Manabezho Falls is about 0.2 mile downstream and Nawadaha Falls about 0.4 mile upstream, both on the same loop. Iagoo Falls, also on the Presque Isle River, is about 3.3 miles away.
Distances are straight-line.