Black River Harbor Beach
Ironwood, MI
Black River Harbor Beach is at the end of the Black River Scenic Byway, 15 miles north of Bessemer in the Ottawa National Forest. You reach the sand by crossing a wooden suspension bridge built in the 1930s over the Black River, then following a trail through the woods. About half a mile of natural Lake Superior shoreline stretches on either side of the river mouth.
A suspension bridge, waterfalls, and a wild beach in one trip, though it's a long drive to the end of the byway.
How we score beachesStop at the waterfalls along the byway on the drive in. Five of them are within a few miles of the harbor.
Parking at the Black River Harbor Recreation Area.
The suspension bridge and a woodland trail lead to the beach; not suitable for wheelchairs.
The byway and recreation area are best from late spring through October. Fall color along the Black River is spectacular in late September.
More Great Lakes beaches
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