2014 Map of Cataract Basin

About this map

Cataract Basin defines the central hydrology of this Marquette County landscape, where the Middle Branch Escanaba River winds through a network of small creeks and wetlands. In the eastern portion, the Cataract Dam Falls mark a point of significant water movement near the junction of several local routes. The area is characterized by numerous glacial lakes, including Shag Lake, Little Shag Lake, and Pike Lake, which are often accessed by specialized trails like the Chain Lake Trl and Bear Creek Trl. Cultural history is anchored by the Bakkala Cem located near M-35 and Green Creek Rd. The map illustrates a transition from the larger river system to the south, where Chandler Brook and Miller Cr feed into lower-lying basins, creating a complex web of waterways used for recreation and local drainage.