Photo: Chris857 / CC BY-SA 4.0Photo: Chris857 / CC BY-SA 4.0Easy roadside access to a 50-foot waterfall with an accessible boardwalk and multiple viewing platforms.
Michigan Recreation Passport required for vehicle entry
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Per Michigan DNR: site is typically open for vehicle access mid-May through mid-October depending on weather; the hiking-trail approach is open year-round, but trails/boardwalks are not monitored or groomed for snow and ice.
Bond Falls, near Paulding in Ontonagon County, is one of the more accessible waterfall experiences in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The main attraction is an accessible boardwalk system with six different viewing platforms, making it easy to see the 50-foot falls from multiple angles.
Vehicle access requires a Michigan Recreation Passport and is seasonal, typically open from mid-May through mid-October. The hiking trail itself remains open year-round, but trails and boardwalks are not maintained for snow or ice in winter. The roadside location means you don’t need a long hike to enjoy the falls — this is a solid choice if you’re short on time or prefer easy access.
The boardwalk design makes this a good option for visitors with mobility considerations, families with young children, or anyone who wants to see a waterfall without committing to a longer hike. Multiple platforms let you choose your favorite vantage point without having to traverse difficult terrain.
Mid-May through mid-October for vehicle access; the hiking trail is open year-round but not groomed for snow or ice in winter.
Wheelchair accessible with boardwalk access and multiple viewing platforms.
You want a hiking experience — the main appeal here is roadside boardwalk access without a significant walk.
Michigan Recreation Passport required for vehicle entry
It's viewable without a hike, from a pullout or short walk near the parking area.
We track 4 waterfalls in Western Upper Peninsula, 1 of which are roadside like this one.
There are 2 other waterfalls we track in Ontonagon County. All Western Upper Peninsula waterfalls →
michigan.gov
Michigan DNR site page, checked 2026-09-04. Page states falls drop 'approximately 50 feet' and describes an 'accessible boardwalk with six viewing locations.' No trail-length figure published. No closure notice found; closure check result: open.
Checked September 2026.