Trail Overview

This route is a collection of a few forest service roads linked together in the Ottawa National Forest to visit two scenic waterfalls in the area, Agate Falls and Bond Falls. Most of the route is 2 lanes wide except the first 10 miles on the NE side. This section is optional. It's a snowmobile trail that runs during the winter months and is 1.5 vehicles wide with places to pass. The trail can be started directly at Agate Falls if desired. At Agate Falls, the trail runs directly over the waterfall on a large wooden single-lane bridge, with walking paths down to the water. Bond Falls to the south requires a small hike to visit and cannot be seen from the trail.

Photos of Two Waterfalls

Want to see more?
View All Photos

Difficulty

Other than a few narrow spots and a single lane bridge, almost the entire trail is gravel and easily passable in almost any vehicle. there are 2 short sections of pavement between the waterfalls.

History

Bond Falls in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan is the result of a dam built in 1940 which created a 2,200-acre reservoir, that outlets to the falls via a spillway. The reservoir was originally built for the Victoria hydroelectric power station, and covers the submerged remains of an old town named Calderwood.

Technical Rating

Grenadier Luke Reilly

Nov 29, 2024

Open

Fresh powder but easy in the right equipment

John P

Oct 08, 2024

Open

Original plan was to start at Miles West Rd off M28 then drive west towards Agate falls and over the old railroad bridge. However signs indicated dirt bikes and ATV/UTV are allowed but not full size street vehicles. Turned around and parked at the Agate falls roadside parking lot instead. The walking trail goes under M28 and railroad bridge. To walk across the railroad bridge walk up to a north side overflow lot where a utility road takes you to the Bergland to Sidnaw Rail Trail. Leaving the falls I picked up the onX trail at Shortcut Rd (unpaved, under construction) and M28. Further south, turning onto CC Rd is where off roading truly began. The road was well maintained graded dirt and gravel. A few potholes along the way. No downed trees or branches. Bond falls was the best way to end today’s drive. A short hike up narrow stairs leads to more falls and water features. The main lower falls are easily accessible. This location has a fee station for anyone without a Recreation Passport.