12 Breathtaking Waterfalls Near Ironwood, MI
Ironwood, Michigan is an ideal destination for anyone who loves natural beauty. After recently spending a long weekend there, we visited many of the waterfalls near Ironwood, MI & were beyond surprised at how much there was to do & see in the area!
12 Waterfalls Near Ironwood, MI
There are many waterfalls in Ironwood & nearby as well. Check out my list of 12 breathtaking waterfalls near Ironwood, MI below!
1. Potawatomi Falls
There are many beautiful waterfalls near Ironwood, MI but if you’re looking for a unique experience that provides an accessible viewing platform overlooking one of our most picturesque falls then look no further than Potawatomi Falls.
The walkway leading to Potawatomi Falls from the parking lot is an asphalt path where you can look out at the falls. It is beautiful to visit during any season!
2. Gorge Falls
Located right next to Potawatomi Falls, Gorge falls is also connected to the same parking lot & asphalt path – making it easily accessible to both. With a 24 foot drop this waterfall is beautifully located between the gorge walls as it continues to flow through the Black River.
*Pro Tip – visiting Gorge Falls in the winter? If the water is frozen across the Black River you can walk across the ice (be super careful) to get to this ice run-off that looks like a frozen waterfall (pictured below)!
3. Great Conglomerate Falls
The large piece of conglomerate rock that divides the two segments is a great namesake for this nearby waterfall. Because this waterfall splits off into 2 directions, it is a unique waterfall & well worth the visit. Be sure to check out both sides of this waterfall!
4. Rainbow Falls
This waterfall dumps into Lake Superior & is the last waterfall on the Black River Scenic Byway. This waterfall is one you will want to explore because it offers so many different view points. View it from the observation deck, at the top of the falls, as well as – the east & west side to appreciate its beauty.
5. Superior Falls
Superior Falls is located on the Montreal River dumping into Lake Superior between Michigan & Wisconsin. It is accessible for viewing on the Michigan side once you go down a steep hill.
You will also notice some of the water is used for power generation because there is a hydro-power plant right next to it. However you can still see the falls & awesome views of Lake Superior from the bottom, as well as the lookout point.
Pictured below is the steep walkway to the falls, once you get to the bottom you will hang a left & follow the path.
6. Sandstone Falls
Another great waterfall near Ironwood, MI is Sandstone Falls. The hike is short but steep. The steps will take you up a quarter mile of vertical elevation in just under two miles.
Although this waterfall is smaller than some in this area, it is unique & worth a visit. It was formed by stream erosion through centuries which has cut many holes into them allowing rainwater access before carving out deeper channels
7. Gabbro Falls
Gabbro Falls is an overlooked gem on the Black River near Bessemer, Michigan. The falls are accessed by way of a short hike from Blackjack Ski Resort and provide visitors with three separate drops that fall 40 feet total. It is absolutely beautiful!
Directions: Go to Black Jack Ski Resort, once you cross the bridge into the parking lot take a left & head up the gravel hill. Keep your eye out for a small indicator on the left hand side of the road as well as a small sign reading “FALLS” nailed to a tree.
8. Presque Isle River Waterfalls
The Presque Isle River is home to three beautiful waterfalls—Manabezho, Manido and Nawadaha. All are easily accessible from a nearby parking area. These waterfalls are located in the Porcupine Mountains State Park where you can also take a 1.7 mile hike (loop) to view them.
9. Interstate Falls
This waterfall near Ironwood, MI is also located between Wisconsin & Michigan (like Superior Falls, # on this list). Interstate Falls is an 18 foot waterfall on the Montreal River. This gorgeous waterfall is a wonderful attraction to locals & visitors – be sure to add it to your list!
10. Bond Falls
Last but not least, one of the most popular waterfalls near Ironwood, MI is Bond Falls. Bond Falls is created by the Ontonagon River dividing into numerous small cascades – dropping approx. 50 feet.
A parking and picnic tables available at roadside, as well as six accessible boardwalk viewing areas to check out more of the waterfall!
11. Copper Falls
Copper Falls is in Mellen, WI a breathtaking sight to see. It splits into two streams, has steps that make it even more interesting and offers up your chance for an adventure by allowing you to hike along both sides of the river while being able view this natural wonder in all its glory!
12. O Kun De Kun Falls
If you are looking for a scenic and wild hike, look no further than O Kun de Kun Falls. This waterfall is one of the most spectacular in all Ontanagon County. You’ll get away from crowds and fences when visiting this natural wonder!
Black River Scenic Byway
The Black River Scenic Byway is home to 4 waterfalls near Ironwood, MI. These 4 waterfalls are: Potawatomi Falls, Gorge Falls, Great Conglomerate Falls, & Rainbow Falls (all listed above).
Things To Do In Ironwood, MI
From skiing, hiking, exploring downtown Ironwood, & so much more – check out my Top 20 – Best Things To Do In Ironwood, MI guide for a full list!
Overview: 12 Breathtaking Waterfalls Near Ironwood, MI
There are so many breathtaking waterfalls near Ironwood, MI. Here is a list of the 12 best ones to explore on your next vacation! If you know any other waterfall spots near this area that I should add to my list, let me know in the comments below and I’ll be sure to check them out next time I’m in Ironwood.
Find more waterfalls near Ironwood, MI on the official Travel Ironwood website.