About Potawatomi Falls
Potawatomi Falls is a named waterfall in Gogebic County, Michigan, located about 11 miles north of Bessemer. The U.S. Geological Survey records it on the Black River Harbor 7.5-minute topographic quadrangle at 46°38′15″ N, 90°03′06″ W (46.63745, -90.05156). Historical sources also record the names Potawatomie Falls, Potowatomie Falls, Potawatami Falls, and Pottawattomi Falls. Named features close by in the federal gazetteer include Sagaigan Lake (lake, 1.1 mi), Sand Island Creek (stream, 1.2 mi), and Sagaigan Creek (stream, 1.4 mi). The nearest other waterfall in this directory is Gorge Falls, 0.2 miles to the north.
USGS gazetteer description: The falls have a vertical drop of 40 feet.
More Photos
141 visitor photos are available on the Google Maps listing.
Weather at Potawatomi Falls
Full NWS forecastForecast for the waterfall's exact location, not the nearest town. Mountain weather can change quickly.
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Source: National Weather Service.
Conditions at Potawatomi Falls
Sun and Daylight Today
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Times in Chicago time. Canyons and steep valleys lose direct sun earlier.
Elevation
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At the mapped waterfall point, from the USGS 3D Elevation Program. Expect cooler temperatures than in nearby towns at lower elevation.
Nearest Stream Gauge
Checking for USGS gauges within about 8 miles...
Live discharge in cubic feet per second (ft³/s). The gauge may be on a different stream than the falls; use the trend as a rough guide to how much water is running in the area.
Map and Directions
The marker shows the USGS-recorded position of Potawatomi Falls. Trailheads and parking can be some distance from the falls themselves, so plan your route with an up-to-date trail map.
Visitor Ratings
Potawatomi Falls holds a 4.8 average from 56 Google reviews. Distribution by star rating:
Named Landmarks Nearby
These named features from the USGS Geographic Names Information System lie within two miles of Potawatomi Falls. Stream positions mark the stream's mouth as recorded by USGS.
- Sagaigan Lake — lake, 1.1 mi
- Sand Island Creek — stream, 1.2 mi
- Sagaigan Creek — stream, 1.4 mi
- Poleface Creek — stream, 2.0 mi
Before You Visit
- Water levels change quickly. Flow is usually strongest after rain and during snowmelt; see the best time to visit waterfalls.
- Stay back from the brink and off wet rock. Our waterfall safety guide covers the most common hazards.
- Check land ownership and access before you go. Some named falls sit on private property or in areas without a maintained trail.
- Download offline maps and save the coordinates 46.63745, -90.05156. Use our waterfall hike packing list.
Waterfalls Near Potawatomi Falls
- Maple Creek Falls, MI3.0 mi west
- Chippewa Falls, MI3.0 mi southwest
- Nawadaha Falls, MI5.3 mi northeast
- Lepisto Falls, MI5.5 mi east
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Potawatomi Falls located?
Potawatomi Falls is in Gogebic County, Michigan, about 11 miles north of Bessemer. Its coordinates are 46.63745, -90.05156 (46°38′15″ N, 90°03′06″ W).
What town is closest to Potawatomi Falls?
The closest town with 1,000 or more residents is Bessemer, MI, about 11 miles away in a straight line. Driving distance is usually longer, so check the route before you go.
What waterfalls are near Potawatomi Falls?
The closest is Gorge Falls (0.2 mi north). Others within reach include Great Conglomerate Falls (0.4 mi), Sandstone Falls (1.0 mi), and Rainbow Falls (1.5 mi).
Which USGS topographic map shows Potawatomi Falls?
Potawatomi Falls appears on the USGS Black River Harbor 7.5-minute quadrangle. You can view it in The National Map viewer or download the US Topo sheet for offline navigation.