Can’t miss spring waterfalls.
Can’t miss spring waterfalls around Ironwood.
The snow is finally starting to melt which opens the door for a whole new set of outdoor adventures in the western U.P.. For many, spring represents a season that symbolizes a fresh start, rebirth and growth. What better way to experience spring coming to life than planning your own waterfall tour?
Ironwood, the Western U.P. and Iron County, Wisconsin are a premier destination for any waterfall enthusiast. While waterfalls are an amazing sight to see in any season, there are several factors that make spring the ideal time to make a trip to see the falls in all their majestic glory. With Ironwood getting around 200” of snow this past winter season the falls will be flowing with maximum water volume from the snowmelt combined with spring rains. The combination of moisture and warmer temperatures provides a beautiful surrounding of lush greenery and flowering. Spring temperatures also make waterfall hikes more enjoyable than during the heat of the summer months.
Plan ahead and be safe! Remember when heading out to see the waterfalls that you remain on designated paths and trails. Do not ever attempt to cross barriers, rivers, or stand on cliff ledges. Areas around waterfalls can be coated with ice, snow, and mud so hike carefully.
Check out the Find Your North Waterfall Guide for maps to all of the waterfalls in the area!
Here are the top 10 waterfalls to awe and inspire you this spring!
10. Interstate Falls
Heading west on U.S. Highway 2, from Ironwood, you’ll come to a roundabout (the first one in our area, so if you see someone going around and around that is why!;) Look for the Interstate Falls sign on the right, turn down the dirt road. Keep going straight, and you’ll see the parking lot with a kiosk, map, and picnic table. It is an easy .4-mile hike. You will reach a viewing platform to take in this beautiful waterfall.
9. Saxon Falls
Stay on the Wisconsin side to check out, the must see, Saxon Falls. Heading west on U.S. 2, you will drive about 10 minutes until you reach County Highway B. Take a right and head north. Once you reach Niemi Road take a left and then a right onto Saxon Falls Road. Follow the signs and stay left to go down a dirt road hill. Park in the parking lot and hike a short distance to see the Falls from the top! These falls are part of the Excel Energy dam and are very powerful!
8. Superior Falls
Just a little way down river is Superior Falls. Head north on Lake Road, and the falls are about 7 miles past Little Girls Point. Approaching from the Wisconsin side, head east, and the falls are about 1 mile from the Saxon Harbor turn off. Once there, park at the second parking area, and head down the steep hill facing Lake Superior. Take a sharp left and head upstream, past the Xcel pipes and onto the path. You will reach the base of the falls for an amazing view within the canyon!
7. Gabbro Falls
Head east on US2 to find Gabbro Falls at the Blackjack Ski Resort. To view from the top, drive all the way to the ski chalet and take a left up the hill. Once you see a small marker on the left side, park on the road and hike in. You will hear the falls as they are right by the road. Use extreme caution while approaching these falls. The rocks are slippery and there are no barriers or platforms for viewing. If you prefer a longer hike, park at the bridge before you reach the chalet and hike along the river to view the falls from the bottom. Just be ready for a wet and muddy hike in the spring. The high levels of the river will make the path narrow so be careful.
6. Conglomerate Falls
Heading down the Black River Scenic Byway is a MUST. You will start out with Conglomerate Falls. This is about a quarter of a mile hike and is fairly easy. There are some steps as you get to the viewing platform. This waterfall is beautiful and worth the hike! In the spring there may still be snow on the ground as this waterfall is the furthest away from the Lake.
5. & 4. Potawatomi Falls & Gorge Falls
A little way down the road you will find Potawatomi and Gorge Falls. If snow is present you may have to park near the road and hike in, which is a fairly easy ½ mile walk. The falls are close together with 4 different viewing platforms. #1 and #4 are perfect views of each of these unique waterfalls.
3. Sandstone Falls
Continuing down the Scenic Byway, and not far from Potawatomi and Gorge is Sandstone Falls. This is a ¼ mile hike with stairs. This waterfall is not like the other 4 as it isn’t a huge drop, but it has its own stunning beauty and unique rock formations.
2. Rainbow Falls (West Side)
Down Black River Road from Sandstone Falls, you will see the sign for Rainbow Falls. This is about a ½ mile hike with many stairs, so be prepared! From the viewing platform you will be right next to this dramatic waterfall. When the sun hits it just right you will see a rainbow! As you view the waterfall you will feel the spray and experience its power. Make sure you stay on the designated trail.
1. Rainbow Falls (East Side)
Continuing down the Black River Scenic Byway, you will arrive at Black River Harbor. From here you can hike across the bridge and onto the North Country Trail. It is about a ¾ of a mile to the other side of Rainbow Falls! You will hike through old, growth forest with some stairs. You will hear the waterfall as you get close and see the viewing platform that you were just on! This view of Rainbow Falls is completely unobstructed and magnificent. As always, use caution on slippery rocks. There is no barrier on this side, so stay back from the edge.