Waterfall daytrips near Boulder Junction
Within an hour to an hour and a half from Boulder Junction are numerous waterfalls. Roaring water, a cascading 50-foot drop into a bubbling pool. These are the sights and sounds of many waterfalls within a short drive from Boulder Junction. These are some of our favorite day trips:
Bond Falls: Located on the middle branch of the Ontonagon River, Bond Falls has a drop of about fifty feet over a wide belt of fractured rock, creating several small cascades. The scenic area is open all year long, but prime viewing is in spring and fall. An accessible boardwalk provides easy viewing, and roadside parking and picnic facilities are available. North on Hwy M to Hwy B. East on Hwy B to Land O Lakes. North on Hwy 45 into Michigan. Take Hwy 45 thru Watersmeet into the town of Paulding. Turn east on Bond Falls Road. Approximately 1 hour from Boulder Junction.
Black River Falls: The Black River Scenic Byway is located approximately 1.5 hours from Boulder Junction, north of Bessemer and leads to Lake Superior. Along the way it passes five main waterfalls as well as some minor ones. The Great Conglomerate Falls, Gorge Falls, Potawatomi Falls, Sandstone Falls and Rainbow Falls are all located in the last three miles of the river before it reaches Lake Superior. There is a parking area for each of the falls. North on Hwy M to Hwy B. West on Hwy B to Presque Isle. Follow Hwy B into Michigan, which turns into Hwy 64 when crossing the border. Follow Hwy 64 to Route 2. West on Route 2 to Bessemer. North on Hwy 513. Follow signs to Copper Peak and Black River Harbor. After passing Copper Peak, look for signs to the falls.
Presque Isle River Waterfalls: Located on the western edge of the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, the Presque Isle River is home to three beautiful waterfalls—Manabezho, Manido and Nawadaha—all easily accessible from a nearby parking area. Take the trail down a set of steps to the falls, where you can find a viewing platform. North on Hwy M to Hwy B. West on Hwy B to Presque Isle. Follow Hwy B into Michigan, which turns into Hwy 64 when crossing the border. Follow Hwy 64 to Route 2. West on Route 2 to Wakefield. North on Hwy 519. Hwy 519 will take you into the Porcupine Mountains – Presque Isle River. Approximately 1.5 hours from Boulder Junction.
Copper Falls State Park: Two branches of the Bad River converge in the park and host Copper and Brownstone Falls and the Tyler Forks Cascades. North on Hwy 51 to Hurley. South on Hwy 77 to Mellen. Copper Falls is about 2 miles northeast of Mellen in Ashland County. Take Hwy 13 to the north side of Mellen and turn northeast on Hwy 169. Go about 1.8 miles. The park entrance will be on your left. Approximately 1.5 hours from Boulder Junction.
On your way to and from the falls make sure and stop by Copper Peak Adventure Ride for an unforgettable view and Stormy Kromer– home of the iconic winter cap for apparel, accessories & more.
