About Ford Dam Falls
Ford Dam Falls is a named waterfall in Dickinson County, Michigan, located about 2.5 miles west of Kingsford. The U.S. Geological Survey records it on the Iron Mountain 7.5-minute topographic quadrangle at 45°48′23″ N, 88°07′13″ W (45.80639, -88.12028). Named features close by in the federal gazetteer include Kingsford Flowage (reservoir, 0.3 mi), Cowboy Lake (lake, 0.4 mi), and Little Popple River (stream, 0.4 mi). The nearest other waterfall in this directory is Horse Race Rapids, 3.5 miles to the southeast.
Weather at Ford 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 Ford Dam Falls
Sun and Daylight Today
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Times in Chicago 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 Ford 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
Ford Dam Falls holds a 1.0 average from 4 Google reviews. Distribution by star rating:
Named Landmarks Nearby
These named features from the USGS Geographic Names Information System lie within two miles of Ford Dam Falls. Stream positions mark the stream's mouth as recorded by USGS.
- Kingsford Flowage — reservoir, 0.3 mi
- Cowboy Lake — lake, 0.4 mi
- Little Popple River — stream, 0.4 mi
- Pine River — stream, 1.8 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 45.80639, -88.12028. Use our waterfall hike packing list.
Waterfalls Near Ford Dam Falls
- Sand Portage Falls, MI8.2 mi southeast
- Piers Gorge Falls, MI9.1 mi east
- Smalley Falls, WI11 mi southeast
- Long Slide Falls, WI12 mi southeast
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Ford Dam Falls located?
Ford Dam Falls is in Dickinson County, Michigan, about 2.5 miles west of Kingsford. Its coordinates are 45.80639, -88.12028 (45°48′23″ N, 88°07′13″ W).
What town is closest to Ford Dam Falls?
The closest town with 1,000 or more residents is Kingsford, MI, about 2.5 miles away in a straight line. Driving distance is usually longer, so check the route before you go.
What waterfalls are near Ford Dam Falls?
The closest is Horse Race Rapids (3.5 mi southeast). Others within reach include Big Quinnesec Falls (historical) (4.1 mi), Hydraulic Dam Falls (4.1 mi), and Breakwater Falls (6.6 mi).
Which USGS topographic map shows Ford Dam Falls?
Ford Dam Falls appears on the USGS Iron Mountain 7.5-minute quadrangle. You can view it in The National Map viewer or download the US Topo sheet for offline navigation.