Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness

Sturgeon River Gorge Wilderness is a protected forest area in Michigan where a river flows through a 300-foot-deep canyon. This roughly 14,700-acre area contains waterfalls, fast rapids, and natural ponds throughout its landscape.

Congress protected this area in 1987 after logging operations had shaped the land until 1910. This protection preserved the natural features of the place for future generations.

Visitors use the river and forest trails for fishing, hiking, and watching wildlife, and the landscape maintains its natural character. These activities shape how people experience the place when they come here.

Visitors can reach the area by forest roads from the M-28 highway, with the town of Sidnaw located about 4 miles to the southwest. The best time to visit is summer and early fall, when trails are accessible and weather is stable.

The area contains Sturgeon Falls, a waterfall where the river drops through a deep gorge before continuing toward Lake Superior. This hidden waterfall can surprise many visitors who find it difficult to locate without local knowledge.

Location: Michigan

GPS coordinates: 46.60890,-88.70220

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:24