Black River Waterfall Platforms and Trails Undergoing Major Repairs

The Ottawa National Forest will begin a major effort to repair and replace waterfall viewing platforms, stairways and trail structures along the Black River corridor beginning Monday, May 18. Visitors should expect temporary closures at key waterfall access points as crews work to improve safety, restore aging infrastructure, and enhance public access in one of the region’s most iconic recreation destinations.

What Visitors Can Expect

Work will begin at Sandstone Falls on Monday, May 18; some trails and platforms will fully or partially close as construction begins. Current conditions are:

About the Project

The Ottawa National Forest received funding to replace and repair aging sections of waterfall trail infrastructure throughout the Black River Harbor Recreation Area. This work supports the Forest Service’s broader effort to modernize recreation facilities, reduce maintenance backlogs, and restore safety across high‑use sites on the forest. Construction is expected to continue through fall 2027.

Planned improvements include:

Sandstone Falls

• Remove about 210 linear feet of aging timber steps and railing.
• Install new helical piles to support a modern elevated stair and platform system.

Rainbow Falls

• Remove worn timber steps and railings.
• Replace with new stairs, railings, platform decking and recast concrete piers.

Potawatomi and Gorge Falls

• Remove deteriorated stairs, railing and boardwalk sections.
• Install new stairs, railings, decking and a puncheon‑style bridge.

These upgrades will ensure safe, sustainable access to some of the Upper Peninsula’s most photographed natural features for years to come.

Contact

For more information on project timing and site closures, please contact the Bessemer Ranger District at 906‑852‑3500 ext. 0.

Press Release