The Wild and Scenic River section of the Black River of Gogebic County is known for the many
waterfalls produced as the river tumbles down from near
Copper Peak to Lake Superior. The river drops more than over five separate named cataracts beginning from its mouth. The first three named falls are smaller, farther apart, and have limited access. Some of these waterfalls are easily accessible from the parallel
County Road 513 (Black River Road) north of
Bessemer, while other waterfalls require a more strenuous hike to see. Roadside trails provide access to Gorge Falls and Potawatomi Falls. The Black River Road was named a
National Forest Scenic Byway in 1992. The trails to two of the Black River waterfalls, Gorge and Potawatomi, have been designated
National Recreation Trails due to their unique stairway designs (to provide easier access down the steep slopes) and observation platforms.
Narrows, Chippewa, and Algonquin Falls The first three waterfalls on the Black River as it approaches Lake Superior are Narrows Falls,
Chippewa Falls, and
Algonquin Falls. They are the three smallest named waterfalls on the river. Narrows and Algonquin Falls are technically
rapids or
cascades. Chippewa Falls drops nearly over boulders and dead tree limbs. These area have limited access and are not often visited.
Great Conglomerate and Potawatomi Falls Great Conglomerate Falls is the southernmost (the Black River flows north) of the more publicized falls and the first large waterfall on the river's approach to Lake Superior. The river drops around a large piece of
conglomerate rock, boulders and tree trunks into a deep gorge. Potawatomi Falls then drops nearly in two sections around a piece of conglomerate rock, similar to Great Conglomerate Falls.
Gorge and Sandstone Falls At Gorge Falls, , the Black River constricts to about across and drops into a steep gorge, creating masses of
foam as the water falls against the rocks below. Sandstone Falls drops a total of in two sections, a initial drop (pictured) and a second drop. Sandstone Falls is named for the
sandstone rocks along the riverbed that the river has
cut channels through.
Rainbow Falls Rainbow Falls is the northernmost waterfall on the Black River, less than from Lake Superior. It is also the highest. Here, the water drops down into a rocky gorge. The waterfall creates much mist, which, on sunny days, creates a constant
rainbow. The approach to this waterfall is strenuous: 200 steps are built on staircases and into the side of the hill, creating a very steep approach. == Tributaries and features ==