Houghton-Douglass Falls facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Houghton-Douglass Falls |
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| Houghton Falls, Douglass Houghton Falls | |
Houghton-Douglass Falls in July 2022
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 Location in Michigan
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| Location | Houghton County, Michigan |
| Coordinates | 47°12′25″N 88°25′39″W / 47.20700°N 88.42758°W |
| Type | Cascade |
| Total height | 110 feet (34 m) |
| Number of drops | 1 |
| Watercourse | Hammell Creek |
Houghton-Douglass Falls is a beautiful waterfall in Michigan, known for being the tallest in the state! It's also called Douglass Houghton Falls or Houghton Falls. This amazing natural wonder drops 110 feet (about 33.5 meters) from top to bottom. You can find it in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, nestled between the towns of Laurium and Lake Linden, right off Highway M-26.
For many years, visiting the falls was challenging and sometimes unsafe due to the steep, rocky cliffs of its deep gorge. Because of this, the land was privately owned, and public access was limited. The waterfall is named after Douglass Houghton, who was Michigan's very first geologist. It also honors his cousin, Columbus Christopher (C.C.) Douglass, who played an important role in the history of the Copper Country region.
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Discovering Houghton-Douglass Falls
Michigan's Tallest Waterfall
Houghton-Douglass Falls stands as Michigan's highest waterfall. Its waters cascade down an impressive 110 feet (33.5 meters). It is located in the scenic Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The falls are found within a deep gorge, surrounded by steep, rocky terrain. This natural beauty is a significant landmark in the region.
A Name with History
The waterfall honors two important figures from Michigan's past. Douglass Houghton was Michigan's first official geologist. He studied the land and its valuable resources. His cousin, Columbus Christopher (C.C.) Douglass, also contributed greatly to the history of the Copper Country. Naming the falls after them celebrates their important work.
From Private Land to Public Park
For a long time, Houghton-Douglass Falls was on private property. This meant that public access was restricted. However, in 2016, a plan was approved to make it a public park. The goal was to create a Michigan state park and a special memorial for veterans.
In September 2018, the land was sold to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. The property owner, Jim Kuusisto, sold 115 acres (about 46.5 hectares) of land. This land includes areas along Hammell Creek and frontage along M-26. The purchase price was $300,000, which is about $323 thousand in 2021 today.
What's Being Built?
Since the purchase, a lot of work has been happening to prepare the falls for visitors. The State of Michigan and the Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) have invested $600,000. This money has gone towards planning the site. They are working on better parking areas and a restroom facility. Plans also include an informational kiosk, a safe pedestrian path, and a bridge. Observation decks are being designed to offer great views. A special Veteran's Memorial is also part of the development. These improvements will make the falls a wonderful and safe place for everyone to enjoy.
Nearby Adventures
If you enjoy exploring waterfalls, you might also like Hungarian Falls. This waterfall is located about 2 miles (3.2 kilometers) south of Houghton-Douglass Falls. It offers another beautiful natural sight in the area.
See also
