Gabbro Falls
Photo: Gabbro Falls - panoramio.jpg · cc by 3.0 · Ian Shackleford

Gabbro Falls

60-foot tiered on Black River · Gogebic County, Michigan

60' tall 0.1 mi hike Easy 🐕 Dog Friendly
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Scout's Notes

Gabbro Falls is one of those waterfalls where getting there is half the adventure — and not in a frustrating way once you know the trick. Ignore Google Maps completely; it'll lead you to the wrong side of the river. Instead, drive to the Blackjack Ski Resort, cross the bridge, turn left on the gravel road, and drive uphill about a quarter mile until you see a tiny 'Falls' sign on the left. You'll hear the thundering water before you see it. The 60-foot tiered cascade has a copper-brown color from tannins in the Black River, creating a dramatic contrast against the dark rock walls. From the top viewing area, you're standing right at the edge of a sheer cliff with no barriers — it's both thrilling and terrifying. The trail to the bottom viewpoint starts near the ski resort bridge and involves navigating through ankle-deep mud in spots, but locals swear it's worth the sloppy hike for the swimming hole at the base. Many visitors rank this as their favorite UP waterfall precisely because it feels wild and undeveloped, though that also means you need to watch kids like a hawk near those steep drop-offs.

Getting There

Nearest Town

, MI

County

Gogebic County

Coordinates

46.5020, -89.9925

The Hike

Distance (one-way)

0.1 miles

Difficulty

Easy

Trail Type

Trail

Know Before You Go

✅
Parking
❌
Restrooms
—
ADA Access
🆓
Free
🌊
Best: Spring

Parking: Small pulloff for 1-2 cars at top viewpoint; gravel lot at ski resort for bottom trail

Pets: Dogs allowed but keep on leash near steep cliffs

Seasonal: Most powerful during spring snowmelt and after heavy rains. Still flows well in summer but can be reduced in dry periods.

Heads up: Extremely steep unguarded cliff edges at top viewpoint; very muddy trail to bottom; no barriers or railings

Frequently Asked Questions

Where exactly is Gabbro Falls and how do I get there?

Don't trust Google Maps — it takes you to the wrong spot. Drive to Blackjack Ski Resort, cross the bridge, turn left on the gravel road, and go uphill about 1/4 mile. Look for a tiny 'Falls' sign on the left side of the road.

How long is the hike to Gabbro Falls?

From the top viewpoint, it's just 20-100 feet from the road. The trail to the bottom of the falls starts near the ski resort bridge and is a short but muddy hike, maybe 5-10 minutes each way.

Is Gabbro Falls worth visiting?

Many reviewers call it their favorite UP waterfall. The 60-foot tiered cascade is stunning, and the undeveloped, wild feeling makes it special. Just be prepared for the tricky access and lack of safety barriers.

Can you swim at Gabbro Falls?

Yes, there's a popular swimming hole at the base of the falls. Locals have been swimming here for decades, though you'll need to take the muddy trail down from the ski resort side to reach it.

Are dogs allowed at Gabbro Falls?

Dogs are allowed, but keep them on a leash. The steep cliff edges at the top viewing area are extremely dangerous for both dogs and humans.

Is there a fee to visit Gabbro Falls?

No, there's no fee to visit the falls. It's on public land with free access.

Why is the water at Gabbro Falls brown?

The copper-brown color comes from natural tannins in the Black River water, not from pollution. It's a characteristic feature that adds to the falls' unique beauty.

Is the trail to Gabbro Falls muddy?

The trail to the bottom viewpoint can be extremely muddy, with some spots ankle-deep or more. Waterproof boots are highly recommended. The path to the top viewpoint is much shorter and usually dry.

Can elderly visitors or young children safely visit Gabbro Falls?

The top viewpoint has extremely steep, unguarded cliff edges that several reviewers warn are not safe for elderly visitors or young children. There are no railings or barriers, and the drop is sheer.

What's the difference between the top and bottom viewpoints at Gabbro Falls?

The top viewpoint is just off the road and gives you a dramatic but scary view from the cliff edge. The bottom trail (starting near the ski resort) takes you through mud but leads to the base where you can swim and see the full height of the falls.

Is Gabbro Falls accessible in winter?

Yes, visitors report accessing the falls in winter, including on snowshoes. The falls can partially freeze, creating beautiful ice formations. The road to Blackjack Ski Resort stays open for the ski area.

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