Four States Fall 2018 - 11 - A Surprise Back in Michigan

The next morning we did a repeat breakfast at Leif's (because it was so good the first time around).

T&N had a little surprise day trip planned for us. About 50 miles north and back into Michigan is Bond Falls waterfall. We had never heard of it!!!

We have been to Tahquamenon Falls in the eastern side of the upper peninsula many times, but did not realize there are actually six waterfalls of note in the U.P.  Besides Tahquamenon in the east, there is Munising, Miners and Wagner in mid-peninsula, and Bond and Agate on the west end. We certainly will have to do more exploring of all these falls in the future.
http://www.shorelinevisitorsguide.com/select-michigan-state-park-maps-and-guides/waterfalls-upper-peninsula/

Tehquamenon features an upper and lower falls area. It is 50 feet at its widest, with a 50 foot total drop. It is sometimes call Rootbeer Falls because of its unique golden-brown color. This is caused by tannins from nearby cedar swamps that drain into the upstream river.

Bond Falls is found along the Ontonagon River. There is parking near the top and bottom of this falls. We started at the bottom.

The falls tumbles over fractured rock formations, dividing it into numerous small cascades. It is also a 50 foot total drop, although it seems longer. The crest is so wide (100+ feet) that is was hard to get it all in one photo. Here are some shots from various spots. Just gorgeous!

 

There are many fabulous viewing spots, including two bridges which cross the river at the bottom of the falls.

There is a trail that runs along side the falls from bottom to top. Here's a good view of one bridge as you head up.

People were enjoying the sights and rushing sounds along the way, and taking lots of photos.

At the top of the falls is the Bond Flowage, which is created by two dams. It was constructed to store water for the Victoria Hydro-Electric Station 20 miles to the north. There is camping and picnic areas around the lake and numerous walking trails. On this map, the falls is upper left.

The lake is on the other side of this high berm, but we didn't get that far.

And, of course, there was the ever present gift and refreshment shop. We bought some sweets to share and headed back south to Eagle River.

This was a most impressive waterfall for size and beauty. And definitely worth a stop, even if we had to back track our route about 50 miles each way.