Explore the Black River Scenic Byway
Just minutes from Big Powderhorn Village, the Black River Scenic Byway offers one of the Upper Peninsula’s most stunning drives—winding through dense hardwood forests, past roaring waterfalls, and ending at the shores of Lake Superior. Whether you’re here for winter adventure or a summer escape, this byway is more than a road—it’s a gateway to pure Michigan magic.
🌲 A Journey Through the Wild Northwoods
What You’ll Experience
🚗 11 Miles of Pure Northwoods Beauty
From Bessemer to Black River Harbor, the byway follows the Black River’s descent toward Lake Superior, offering views that change with every turn.
💦 Five Waterfalls Worth Stopping For
- Great Conglomerate Falls
- Potawatomi & Gorge Falls
- Sandstone Falls
- Rainbow Falls
🌲 Thick Forest Canopy & Wildlife Viewing
Deer, eagles, snowshoe hares, and even the occasional black bear are known to roam this route—especially at sunrise and sunset.
🌅 End at Lake Superior
The journey concludes at Black River Harbor Recreation Area, a hidden gem with a historic suspension bridge, beach access, and incredible sunset views over the big lake.
Best Time to Visit?
- ❄️ Winter: A snow-covered wonderland perfect for snowshoeing, photography, and peaceful forest drives.
- 🍁 Fall: Fiery foliage makes the byway one of the top leaf-peeping spots in the Midwest.
- 🌞 Summer: Hike the falls, pack a picnic, or dip your toes in the lake.
- 🌸 Spring: Watch the waterfalls roar with snowmelt energy.
Perfect For:
- 📸 Nature photographers & drone adventurers
- 🚗 Scenic-drive lovers
- 🧒 Families seeking a mellow afternoon off the slopes
- ❤️ Couples looking for a quiet, romantic outing
- 🌿 Hikers and casual strollers alike
Just a Short Drive. A Lifetime Memory.
The Black River Scenic Byway is only about 10 minutes from Big Powderhorn Mountain, making it the perfect half-day outing before check-in, after check-out, or on a rest day between ski sessions.
Bring your camera, your curiosity, and maybe a thermos of cocoa—and take the long, beautiful way around.
🗺️ Explore the Black River Scenic Byway During Your Stay
Ask our front desk for directions, trail maps, and tips for hitting the highlights.
For more information about hiking to the waterfalls along the Black River, visit the Ottawa National Forest’s website here: fs.usda.gov/recarea/ottawa/recarea/?recid=12343
Black River Scenic Byway: common questions
How many waterfalls are on the Black River Scenic Byway?
Five — Great Conglomerate, Potawatomi, Gorge, Sandstone and Rainbow Falls — strung along the last few miles of the byway before it reaches Lake Superior.
How long is the Black River Scenic Byway?
The byway runs about 15 miles from Bessemer north to Black River Harbor on Lake Superior, starting just down Black River Road from the Big Powderhorn Village.
Is the byway open in winter?
The road is plowed to a point but the waterfall trails and the harbor are not maintained for winter access. Spring and autumn are the best times to walk the falls.
Staying in Big Powderhorn Village
The byway starts a few minutes from the base of Big Powderhorn Mountain. Rental homes and condominiums here put the waterfalls, Lake Superior and the ski hill all within a short drive.
