If you are looking for an easily accessible winter waterfall adventure, Powerhouse Falls is an excellent option to add to your itinerary.
This small 6-foot tall waterfall is located on the Falls River near L’Anse, Michigan. It is a simple, single drop named after the abandoned hydraulic powerhouse that sits next to it on the small cliff.
The parking lot is next right next to the falls, requiring no snowshoeing, and can even be viewed from the car, though I recommend getting out for the full experience.
There are a few more smaller drops located up river.
There’s something special about visiting waterfalls in the winter. The water sounds different, the air smells fresher, and the scenes are incredibly peaceful. Powerhouse Falls in the winter is no exception. Even with what I consider the ugly building perched next to it.
While this waterfall is not as impressive as some of the other ones in the area, Powerhouse Falls makes a pleasant scenic stop, no matter the season.
Getting There
Head US-41 south of L’Anse and continue to Power Dam Road. Turn right (west) onto Power Dam Road and continue about 1.2 miles. Continue following Power Dam Road past East River Drive. Right before the dead end, turn right at the PowerHouse Falls sign. The waterfall is located at the end of the road.