LiDAR terrain view · USGS 3DEP
Powder Horn Falls
By Armen Suny · Last verified Sep 2026
LiDAR & 3D terrainDifficulty
Easy
Trail Length
0.5 miles
Trail Type
Out And Back
About Powder Horn Falls
Powder Horn Falls is one of the photogenic cascades along Michigan’s Black River corridor, easily reached from the Black River Scenic Byway in the Upper Peninsula. The falls tumble over dark, rocky ledges into a serene pool, offering classic waterfall views that draw photographers and day-hikers alike. Though the setting feels remote, the route to the falls rewards visitors with a compact, scenic outing rather than a long backcountry trek. Reaching the falls involves a moderately paced hike rather than a roadside stroll: the maintained out-and-back route covers 2.4 miles with about 350 feet of elevation gain, so plan for a bit of effort on the return. If you’re planning an overnight stay, the nearest developed campground is Black River Harbor Pavilion, roughly 18.4 km away, so bring supplies if you’re making a day trip into the area.
The Setting
Powder Horn Falls sits at 1,243 feet along the Black River, in the foothills of Michigan.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
This is a 2.4-mile out-and-back trail with approximately 350 feet of elevation gain and a “moderate” difficulty rating. The route follows a well-defined woodland tread through mixed forest to a viewing area overlooking Powder Horn Falls; short, steeper pitches account for the moderate rating, so expect some uneven footing and a steady climb on the return. The trail is popular and straightforward to follow, making it suitable for hikers comfortable with moderate grades and natural surface conditions.
What to Expect
Dogs are welcome.
Accessibility
The trail is short and relatively flat, but the surface may be uneven. Contact the managing agency for accessibility details.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Powder Horn Falls?
✅ Dogs are allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Powder Horn Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring and early summer are the best times to visit, as the water flow is typically strongest during these seasons.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, and Fall. Winter access may be limited.
Safety Information
Exercise caution near the falls, as rocks can be slippery. Stay on designated trails and viewing areas to avoid accidents.
Current Water Conditions
15 ft³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
Much lower than usual for this time of year
Based on 53 years of record
1.89 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 BLACK RIVER NEAR BESSEMER, MI (1 km away).
Today
Low
15 cfs
6/10Tomorrow
Low
16 cfs
6/10Sun
Moderate
16 cfs
5/10Mon
Low
15 cfs
6/10Tue
Moderate
14 cfs
5/10Wed
Moderate
15 cfs
5/10Thu
Moderate
22 cfs
5/10Best window: Today — low flow, sunny (trip score 6/10).
Best time of year: this gauge typically runs highest from late March to late May, peaking in April.
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 Bessemer 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.
The ground through the falls loses about 78 feet in steep steps rather than one leap. The ground at the falls is roughly 1,251 feet above sea level.
The ground changes about 75 feet in the 500 feet above the falls and 38 feet in the 500 feet below. Facing northwest, the falls stay mostly shaded, with soft, even light all day.
Drag to compare. The dot marks the waterfall. The frame is about a mile across.
- Ground elevation
- 1,251 feet
- Measured by 1-meter lidar
- Drop at the falls
- About 78 feet
- Change in ground height within ~250 feet of the falls
- Faces
- Northwest
- Mostly shaded, so the light stays soft and even all day.
A slice through the lidar ground surface, from above the falls to downstream (heading northwest).
Elevation data: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Aerial imagery: USGS The National Map. Public domain.
Location & Access
Getting There
Powder Horn Falls is located near the Black River Scenic Byway in Gogebic County, Michigan. Visitors can access the falls by following signs along the byway, which is a popular route for exploring the area's waterfalls.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking is available at designated lots along the Black River Scenic Byway. From the parking area, visitors may need to hike a short distance to reach the falls.
Elevation
1,243 feet above sea level
Coordinates
46.506028° N, -90.081994° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
Wear sturdy footwear, as the trail may be uneven in some areas. Bring a camera to capture the beauty of the falls. Bug spray is recommended during warmer months.
Where to Stay
Snow Otter Haus - 2
North Ironwood Acres - Black River Lodge
Quality Inn Ironwood
AmericInn by Wyndham Ironwood
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
Some links are affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Nearby Campground
BLACK RIVER HARBOR PAVILION
11.5 miles away · 1 sites
Overview Planning a visit to the Black River Harbor Pavilion? Watch for Alerts at the top of the page for any Alerts regarding this facility. The Black River Harbor Pavilion is located within the Black Harbor Recreation Area on Lake Superior in Michigans Upper Peninsula. The historic stone and wood pavilion was constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Recreation Lake Superior offers great opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The North Country National Scenic Trail
Book on Recreation.govAdditional Information
Nearby Attractions
Other waterfalls along the Black River Scenic Byway, such as Rainbow Falls and Gorge Falls. The nearby Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park is also a popular destination.
Wildlife
The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, deer, and small mammals. Visitors may also encounter insects such as mosquitoes during warmer months.
Cities near Powder Horn Falls
Nearby Waterfalls
LiDAR
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