Potato River Falls
Wisconsin • 90 ft
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrain
Photo Credits (5)
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
0.8 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
100 ft
About Potato River Falls
Potato River Falls sits just outside Gurney in Iron County, Wisconsin, where the Potato River tumbles through rugged rock ledges in two distinct tiers. The falls reach roughly 90 feet in height and offer sweeping views of the surrounding dense forest, making the spot a rewarding stop for day hikers and photographers who enjoy dramatic cascades and easy-access viewpoints. The site lies within the county-managed Iron County Forest (designated LCA) and is overseen by Iron County. While relatively compact, the area’s combination of upper and lower falls and its forested setting make it a popular short outing for locals and visitors exploring northern Wisconsin’s natural highlights.
The Setting
Potato River Falls sits at 968 feet within Iron County Forest, fed by the Potato River, in the foothills of Wisconsin. The falls drop 90 feet.
Height: 90 feet
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 0.8-mile out-and-back trail gains 100 feet of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
The trail to Potato River Falls is an approximately 0.8-mile out-and-back route with about 100 feet of elevation gain and is typically rated moderate. The path includes a series of steps and rocky footpaths with some steep sections, so sturdy footwear is recommended; surfaces can become slippery after rain. Though short, the trail offers clear viewpoints for both the upper and lower falls—expect a brief, moderately challenging walk to reach the overlooks.
What to Expect
The falls cascade 90 feet. Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Potato River Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Potato River Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are ideal for viewing the falls at their fullest flow, while fall offers stunning foliage. Winter visits may provide unique frozen waterfall views but require extra caution.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the edges of the viewpoints and on the stairs, as they can be slippery. Avoid visiting during heavy rain or icy conditions without proper preparation.
Current Water Conditions
5 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
7.96 ft
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is well below normal for this time of year, so the waterfall may be a trickle.
About This Gauge
7-Day Flow Outlook
Based on the USGS gauge POTATO RIVER AT GURNEY, WI (2 km away).
Today
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
3/10Tomorrow
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
4/10Tue
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
3/10Wed
Low
6 cfs
4/10Thu
Low
6 cfs
4/10Fri
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
5/10Sat
Barely Flowing
5 cfs
5/10Best window: Fri — barely flowing flow, mostly sunny (trip score 5/10).
How we calculate this
This is a transparent outlook, not a precise forecast. We take the waterfall's current flow strength (how it ranks against its historical normal for today, from the nearest USGS stream gauge), carry that ranking forward along the gauge's seasonal curve, and nudge it for forecast rain. Confidence is highest for the next day or two and falls further out. Always check official conditions and your own judgment before visiting — high flows can be dangerous.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Birch Hill hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
The Terrain, Seen by LiDAR
Aircraft-mounted lasers measured this ground to within inches. Trees and buildings are digitally stripped away, leaving the bare shape of the land the water has carved.
Through the falls the surface drops roughly 144 feet over a short, steep run of tiers. Only part of that is the waterfall, which is listed at 90 feet; the rest is the canyon carrying on downstream. Elevation at the pin is about 955 feet.
The whole reach is steep: about 114 feet of descent in the 500 feet above the falls and another 73 feet in the 500 feet below. The falls face southwest and glow in afternoon and evening light.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 955 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 144 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Southwest
- Glows in afternoon and evening light.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading southwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Potato River Falls is located near the town of Gurney, Wisconsin. From Highway 169, follow signs to Potato River Falls Park. The falls are accessible via a short drive on a gravel road leading to the parking area.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
There is a small parking area available at Potato River Falls Park, which provides access to the trailheads leading to the falls.
Elevation
968 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.461059° N, -90.529071° W
Land Management
Managed by CNTY
Visitor Tips & Gear
Bring sturdy shoes for the trail, especially if visiting after rain. Bug spray is recommended during summer months. Be cautious on the steps and near the edges of the viewpoints, as they can be slippery. Winter visitors should prepare for icy conditions.
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With 0.8 miles and 100 ft of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Sun exposure on the trail makes good sun protection a must in summer.
Polarized Sunglasses (Knockaround)
Cuts glare off the water so you actually see the falls — and your photos turn out better too.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Where to Stay
Snow Otter Haus - 2
Snow Otter Haus - 1
Quality Inn Ashland - Lake Superior
The Washburn Inn
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
MINERAL LAKE
18.5 miles away · 10 sites
Overview We apologize, this campground is currently closed. Recreation Boating, swimming and fishing are popular activities among visitors. A boat ramp to the lake is provided off of Forest Service Road 187, about a mile from the campground. Anglers can expect a catch of a variety of freshwater lake and river species, including musky, bass, walleye and pan fish. Eagle watching is also a popular pastime. The forest is home to hundreds of miles of off-road vehicle, hiking and mountain biking trails
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Copper Falls State Park, Saxon Harbor, and the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore are within driving distance.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, birds, and small mammals. Visitors may also spot bald eagles near the river.
Cities near Potato River Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
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