Potawatomi Falls


May 2017

State: Michigan

Location: Black River Scenic Byway, 14 miles north of Bessemer

Height: 30

Crest: 10

Water Source: Black River

Waypoint: 46.6375N 90.05139W

Summary: A very scenic waterfall along an especially scenic part of the Black River. An added plus is the close proximity of the equally impressive Gorge Falls. These are two of the most impressive falls on the Black River and are also the two easiest to access.

Potawatomi Falls is just upstream of Gorge Falls and is reached from the same parking area. Potawatomi is the name of one of the native tribes. This waterfall is wheelchair accessible. Gorge Falls is just a short walk away.

In low water, as pictured in the below right, the waterfall is segmented, with most of the water going to the right. In high water the river covers the entire rock separating the two segments with a sheet of white water.

The Black River Scenic Byway starts north of US 2 near Bessemer. There are signs on US 2. Gorge Falls is about 14.5 miles north of US 2. The scenic area is on the right and is clearly marked. The falls are a short walk from the parking area.

Nearby Falls

Gorge Falls is just a short walk away. From Potawatomi Falls you can hike or drive downstream to see Rainbow Falls and Sandstone Falls, or upstream to see Conglomerate Falls. The minor Algonquin and Chippewa Falls are further upstream. North of Ramsay on the Black River you can find Gabbro Falls. It is a 40 mile drive to Manabezho Falls. To the west along the Wisconsin/Michigan border you can find Saxon Falls and Superior Falls.

Photo Gallery


May 2017

Both segments, July 2004

July 2004

July 2004

Side View, September 2006

Right Segment Closeup

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Last Modified: Sunday, 09-Jul-2017 21:25:16 MDT.

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