Located on Black River Harbor road north of Ironwood, the National Black River Scenic Byway includes the following waterfalls: Great Conglomerate, Potawatomi, Gorge, Sandstone, and Rainbows. As you visit, stop and take notice of the signs explaining the conglomerate rock formations. For comprehensive information on the Byway and Black River Harbor, please go to the Ottawa National Forest website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/ottawa/recreation/camping-cabins/recarea/?recid=12343&actid=29
Directions: From Hwy. US 2 in Bessemer take Powderhorn Road North. When you come to the T in the road at the stop sign, make a left hand turn on Black River Rd. You will find all the waterfalls on this Road. This road is approximately 14 miles long, ending in the only Harbor & Marina operated by the USDA Forest Service in the lower 48 states.
Great Conglomerate Falls– This is a very large waterfall which is divided by a wide conglomerate rock formation. This waterfall is well marked. Walking trail 3/4 mile.
•Access: Improved Trail
•Walking Time: 15 min. – 45 min
•Vertical Drop: 20 ft. and Over
Potawatomi Falls– Potawatomi, which is barrier free (from Gorge Parking Lot), is one of the most beautiful waterfalls on the Black River. This waterfall is well marked. A restroom is available at this site. Walking trail is approximately 1/8 mile. Shares common road in with Gorge Falls and 2 separate parking lots.
•Access: Improved Trail
•Walking Time: 15 min. or Less
•Vertical Drop: 20 ft. and Over
Gorge Falls – This conglomerate canyon has a 34 foot drop. Potawatomi and Gorge Falls are accessible by the same parking area. Walking trail is approximately 1/8 mile.
•Access: Improved Trail
•Walking Time: 15 min. – 45 min
•Vertical Drop: 20 ft. and Over
Sandstone Falls – This waterfall meanders over rocks giving it a unique appearance. It is located on a beautiful spot on the Black River, with a well marked, short 1/4 mile walking trail.
•Access: Improved Trail
•Walking Time: 15 min. – 45 min
•Vertical Drop: 20 ft. and Over
Rainbow Falls – A Beautiful Waterfall that is extremely photogenic on the East part of the River. Enjoy the scenery on your 1/2 mile walk to the waterfall. Take is easy, there are many stairs.
•Access: Improved Trail
•Walking Time: 15 min. – 45 min
•Vertical Drop: 20 ft. and Over