Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on the Lake Superior side of Michigan's Upper Peninsula is undoubtedly one of the premier natural wonders in Michigan. Its dramatic shoreline, wooded bluffs, and unspeakably blue water draw thousands of visitors every year.

But, as all we Michiganders know, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is far from the only natural wonder in the Great Lakes State - or the Upper Peninsula. Heck, it's not even the only natural wonder in the Pictured Rocks area! For example, just a few minutes south of Munising, where Pictured Rocks is headquartered and where you'll find a couple of the park's units, there's another natural wonder that just doesn't get the same kind of attention or visitorship that the National Park does.

I'm talking about Wagner Falls Scenic Site. This hidden gem is sandwiched between the Hiawatha National Forest and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore about five minutes south of Munising. The small parking area and trail head are located on a forested bend along Michigan Hwy. M-94, so it's easy to miss. But you should definitely keep your eye for it - because the short hike to this hidden gem natural wonder is most assuredly worth it.

According to AllTrails Plus, the total distance of the hike is only about a quarter of a mile - that's round trip, out and back. I last visited in early spring, and parts of the trail were muddy, so watch out for that if the weather has been wet. But a good portion of the trail is a boardwalk, as well, which made going a little easier.

You'll follow the trail through quiet woods along a stream - Wagner Creek - the sound of rushing water becoming louder as you draw closer to a wooden viewing platform. And from there, you'll be treated to a lovely view of the multi-tiered cascade that makes up Wagner Falls. It's certainly not the tallest waterfall in Michigan (maybe 20 or 30 feet from base to precipice), but its setting in an old-growth pine and hemlock forest and the intimate viewing experience, I think, make it one of the prettiest.

There are no amenities, e.g., water or restrooms, at this site, but again, it's mere minutes from Munising, as well as Pictured Rocks' Munising Falls Visitor Center, where you'll find plenty of services. Have you hiked to Wagner Falls? What are some of your favorite hidden gem natural wonders in Michigan? Bet sure to tell us about them on our nominations page.