About Crystal Falls Township

Crystal Falls Township at a Glance

Location: Crystal Falls Township is located in Iron County in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula, surrounding the City of Crystal Falls. The Township is approximately 20 miles east of Iron River and is conveniently located near the Michigan-Wisconsin border.

Area: Crystal Falls Township encompasses approximately 148,703 acres, or about 232 square miles, making it one of the larger townships in the region. Much of the Township is characterized by forests, lakes, rivers and other natural areas.

Population: According to the 2020 U.S. Census, Crystal Falls Township had a population of 1,647 residents. The Township is home to a mix of year-round residents and seasonal property owners who enjoy the area's natural beauty and Northwoods lifestyle.

County: Iron County, Michigan

Region: Western Upper Peninsula of Michigan

ZIP Code: 49920

Crystal Falls Township's expansive forests, waterways and rural character provide residents and visitors with opportunities to enjoy fishing, boating, hiking, hunting, camping, snowmobiling and other outdoor activities throughout the year.

Welcome to Crystal Falls Township

Crystal Falls Township is located in Iron County in Michigan's western Upper Peninsula, surrounding the City of Crystal Falls. With more than 148,000 acres of forests, lakes, rivers and natural areas, the Township offers residents and visitors the opportunity to enjoy the beauty and quiet character of Michigan's Northwoods.

The Township is a place where outdoor recreation, natural resources and community come together. The Paint River and numerous lakes and streams provide opportunities for fishing, boating and wildlife viewing, while forests, trails and public lands offer opportunities for hiking, camping, hunting, snowmobiling and other outdoor activities throughout the year.

A Community with Deep Roots

The history of Crystal Falls Township is closely connected to the development of Iron County and the Upper Peninsula. Iron ore was discovered in the area during the 1800s, and mining became an important part of the region's early development. The arrival of the railroad in 1882 helped Crystal Falls become an important shipping point for iron ore.

Mining also took place throughout the surrounding township. As the mining industry declined, forestry and logging became increasingly important to the local economy and continue to be significant industries in the region today.

Crystal Falls Township was among the area's earliest local governmental communities. When Iron County was established in 1885, Crystal Falls Township was part of the foundation of the new county's local government. Over the years, portions of the original township were used to establish additional townships as the region developed.

Surrounded by Nature

One of the defining characteristics of Crystal Falls Township is its abundance of natural resources. Wooded landscapes, waterways and open spaces provide a setting for year-round recreation and make the area a destination for people who enjoy the outdoors.

Residents and visitors can enjoy activities such as:

  • Fishing and boating
  • Hiking and exploring nature
  • Camping
  • Hunting
  • Snowmobiling and winter recreation
  • Wildlife watching
  • Exploring area parks, lakes and public lands

The Township's natural setting is an important part of what makes Crystal Falls Township a special place to live, work and visit.

A Northwoods Community

Crystal Falls Township combines the peaceful character of a rural Upper Peninsula community with convenient access to the City of Crystal Falls and the surrounding communities of Iron County. The area offers a slower pace of life, abundant outdoor recreation and a strong connection to the region's history and natural resources.

Whether you are a longtime resident, a new neighbor or a visitor discovering the Upper Peninsula, Crystal Falls Township welcomes you to explore everything the community has to offer.

Township Government and Services

Crystal Falls Township provides a variety of services and resources for residents, including public works, utilities, assessing, zoning, garbage and recycling services, parks and recreation, and fire protection. The Township also provides access to important public information, including meeting minutes, ordinances, tax and assessment information, planning documents, and other community resources.

For information about Township officials, boards and commissions, meetings, services and public documents, please explore the other sections of this website.

Part of Iron County

Crystal Falls Township is proud to be part of Iron County, a community with a rich history of mining and lumbering and a strong connection to the outdoors. Crystal Falls serves as the county seat, and the surrounding communities share a common heritage that continues to shape the region today.

Discover Crystal Falls Township — a place where history, community and the natural beauty of Michigan's Upper Peninsula come together.