Houghton-Douglass Falls, recognized as Michigan's tallest waterfall, is now open to the public after the Michigan Department of Natural Resources completed Phase 1 planned improvements. (Courtesy photo)

CALUMET — One of the Keweenaw Peninsula’s most iconic natural attractions is welcoming visitors once again as Michigan’s tallest waterfall officially reopens following recent site improvements.

Houghton-Douglass Falls, located along M-26 near Calumet, is now open to the public after the Michigan Department of Natural Resources completed Phase 1 of an ongoing improvement project at the site.

The site underwent major upgrades in 2025 aimed at making the falls safer and more accessible for visitors. Improvements include a new parking area just off M-26, a pedestrian bridge crossing Hammell Creek and a vault toilet.

“People have talked about Houghton-Douglass Falls for years,” said Visit Keweenaw Executive Director Brad Barnett. “Now, it’s a lot easier to find and visit. It’s Michigan’s tallest waterfall, it’s right here in the Copper Country and it delivers that big Keweenaw feeling without needing an all-day hike.”

Despite the improvements, visitors are reminded to use caution near the falls. The viewing area overlooks a steep gorge, and cliff edges remain unprotected by guardrails or observation platforms.

“This is a place to take in the view, not push your luck for a photo,” Barnett said. “The trail is much more approachable now, but the gorge is still wild. Stay back, take your time and enjoy it safely.”

Phase 2, currently planned for 2027, is expected to include completion of the accessible trail to the falls, accessible observation platforms, additional safety barriers and a veterans memorial.

Recognized as the tallest permanent, year-round plunge waterfall in Michigan, the waterfall drops roughly 110 feet into a rugged ancient volcanic gorge just north of Houghton in the Keweenaw Peninsula.

According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the site is made up of rock formations only found in the Keweenaw Peninsula; the main formations being part of the Portage Lake Lava variety.

Officials recommend visiting during spring runoff for peak water flow or in the fall when autumn foliage colors the surrounding landscape. The round-trip walk to the falls is approximately one-half mile.

The falls are named in honor of Michigan’s first state geologist, Douglass Houghton, and Columbus C. Douglass, both tied to the Copper Country’s early mining and development history.

Officials note the site is officially named Houghton-Douglass Falls, although it has often been mistakenly referred to as “Douglass Houghton Falls,” “Douglas Houghton Falls” or simply “Houghton Falls.”

More information about the falls and other Keweenaw attractions can be found at Visit Keweenaw’s website.

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Sophie Vogelmann can be reached at 906-786-2021 or svogelmann@dailypress.net.