About Cataract Dam Falls
Cataract Dam Falls is a named waterfall in Marquette County, Michigan, located about 4.1 miles northwest of Gwinn. The U.S. Geological Survey records it on the Cataract Basin 7.5-minute topographic quadrangle at 46°18′57″ N, 87°30′41″ W (46.31583, -87.51139). Named features close by in the federal gazetteer include Green Creek (stream, 0.8 mi), Cataract Basin (lake, 1.1 mi), and Mud Lake (lake, 1.7 mi). The nearest other waterfall in this directory is Tiger Falls, 6.8 miles to the northwest.
More Photos
50 visitor photos are available on the Google Maps listing.
Weather at Cataract Dam Falls
Full NWS forecastForecast for the waterfall's exact location, not the nearest town. Mountain weather can change quickly.
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Source: National Weather Service.
Conditions at Cataract Dam Falls
Sun and Daylight Today
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Times in Detroit time. Canyons and steep valleys lose direct sun earlier.
Elevation
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At the mapped waterfall point, from the USGS 3D Elevation Program. Expect cooler temperatures than in nearby towns at lower elevation.
Nearest Stream Gauge
Checking for USGS gauges within about 8 miles...
Live discharge in cubic feet per second (ft³/s). The gauge may be on a different stream than the falls; use the trend as a rough guide to how much water is running in the area.
Map and Directions
The marker shows the USGS-recorded position of Cataract Dam Falls. Trailheads and parking can be some distance from the falls themselves, so plan your route with an up-to-date trail map.
Visitor Ratings
Cataract Dam Falls holds a 4.7 average from 12 Google reviews. Distribution by star rating:
Named Landmarks Nearby
These named features from the USGS Geographic Names Information System lie within two miles of Cataract Dam Falls. Stream positions mark the stream's mouth as recorded by USGS.
- Green Creek — stream, 0.8 mi
- Cataract Basin — lake, 1.1 mi
- Mud Lake — lake, 1.7 mi
- Bear Creek — stream, 2.0 mi
Before You Visit
- Water levels change quickly. Flow is usually strongest after rain and during snowmelt; see the best time to visit waterfalls.
- Stay back from the brink and off wet rock. Our waterfall safety guide covers the most common hazards.
- Check land ownership and access before you go. Some named falls sit on private property or in areas without a maintained trail.
- Download offline maps and save the coordinates 46.31583, -87.51139. Use our waterfall hike packing list.
Waterfalls Near Cataract Dam Falls
- Upper Chocolay Falls, MI13 mi east
- Lower Carp River Falls, MI14 mi north
- Morgan Falls, MI14 mi north
- Black River Falls, MI14 mi northwest
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Cataract Dam Falls located?
Cataract Dam Falls is in Marquette County, Michigan, about 4.1 miles northwest of Gwinn. Its coordinates are 46.31583, -87.51139 (46°18′57″ N, 87°30′41″ W).
What town is closest to Cataract Dam Falls?
The closest town with 1,000 or more residents is Gwinn, MI, about 4.1 miles away in a straight line. Driving distance is usually longer, so check the route before you go.
What waterfalls are near Cataract Dam Falls?
The closest is Tiger Falls (6.8 mi northwest). Others within reach include Schweitzer Falls (7.6 mi), Warner Falls (9.1 mi), and Froling Falls (9.2 mi).
Which USGS topographic map shows Cataract Dam Falls?
Cataract Dam Falls appears on the USGS Cataract Basin 7.5-minute quadrangle. You can view it in The National Map viewer or download the US Topo sheet for offline navigation.