Hiawatha National Forest Black River Falls Technical Route

The Black River carves a deep gorge through ancient Precambrian rock, where this technical route follows old logging roads and trap lines to reach a series of spectacular waterfalls hidden in the Hiawatha National Forest. Starting from Forest Road 513, you’ll immediately hit the first challenge—a steep rocky descent down granite shelves that serves as the gatekeeper for this remote corner of the UP. The route threads between massive white pines and crosses the Black River multiple times, with Rainbow Falls being the crown jewel at the end of a particularly gnarly rock garden approach.

Difficult terrain demands a capable 4WD with rock sliders and recovery points—the granite shelves will test your breakover angle and the river crossings can reach bumper height during spring runoff. Skid plates mandatory for the rocky sections that’ll eat up anything exposed underneath. Best attempted June through September when water levels drop and the trails firm up. No permits required but check with the Forest Service for seasonal road closures. Dispersed camping allowed throughout, though finding level ground near the falls requires some creativity. This is real UP wilderness where cell service is a fairy tale.