Popular MI Waterfall Site Closed Through Fall

A popular western Upper Peninsula waterfall will be closed through the fall.

Agate Falls will be closed until Nov. 1 for essential repairs and improvements to the site's trestle bridge, according to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

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The DNR is using a Federal Highway Administration Recreational Trails Program grant to pay for the site's repairs and improvements, which are expected to cost $1.6 million, officials said.

"With the work taking place directly above the pathway and overlook, the site is closed to ensure public safety," said Dan Dowdy, unit supervisor with the DNR Parks and Recreation Division.

Along with closing the scenic site, officials have also rerouted a 4.6-mile section of the ORV SB Route.

The detour starts at Mile W, then continues to Calderwood Road, which becomes Bond Falls Road, until it reaches "LL" on the trail. The total detour is roughly 18.6 miles.

"This reroute is a local ‘club route’ and is known as the CW," said Carly Graff, western Upper Peninsula trails specialist for the DNR Parks and Recreation Division.

Agate Falls, located along the middle branch of the Ontonagon River, is considered one of Michigan's most picturesque sites. Visitors can reach the waterfall by way of a half-mile trail that offers views of the top of the falls.