Rainbow Falls, Black River Recreation Area

Got information on waterfalls and scenic areas today when we stopped at the Forest Service office.  Decided to take a quick drive north of Bessemer to see the Black River Recreation Area which has 5 waterfalls and is also a boat launch area as well as sandy beach on Lake Superior.  Our intention was to just scope out the area, get some ideas, then come back another day.

Had to cross the suspension bridge to get to the beach/trails

Marina on Black River, looking up at suspension bridge

We drove to the end of the road - would have driven into Lake Superior if we did not stop - and decided to go look at the beach.  But, before we got to the beach trail, we saw the sign for Rainbow Falls and decided to head there.  Trekked up the many steps to get way above the Black River, and proceeded to walk along the forest in a very well marked path.

Still waters run deep, very tannic color (brown)

Took trail to right to Rainbow Falls

Lots of steps going up to be above the river

Well worn, well marked path

Very serene, very peaceful.  We know bears, coyotes, wolves, deer, and elk are in those woods but we were not concerned.  Too many people making noises, would scare any animal away.  Passed a group of young teenage girls and they were soaking wet - we did not know how they got into the water at the falls.  We would soon find out.

Berries!  Watch out for bears......

Beautiful Rainbow Falls, looking down from east side of river

Got down to river level, looking upstream right by falls

And then it drops down 

Fields of berries

Could hear the falls way before seeing it.  Awesome to see and hear.  We could get right to the edge of the falls and took some great photos, and when we looked upstream - there were people sitting in the water at the edge of the river.  That's how they got into the water and swam!

Back down at suspension bridge, walking towards Lake Superior

Looks like Washington - 1st Beach/La Push/Rialto Beaches!

Sailboat docked at Black River Landing

Got back to the beginning of the trail and went out to see the Lake Superior.  Was very calm seas, very hazy, could see eastbound looking up the Yooper and the whole area reminded us of the Pacific Northwest - sandy beaches, lots of driftwood, the feel of the ocean even though it is a lake.  Nice day.