MI Bucket List: Tahquamenon Falls
Lauren Coin
| 3 min read
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is home to the second-largest state park in Michigan: Tahquamenon Falls. This must-see destination is located just outside Paradise and encompasses nearly 50,000 acres. Here, you can visit waterfalls, hike trails, camp overnight and take part in countless seasonal activities.
The Tahquamenon Falls State Park is perfect for Michiganders looking to experience the U.P.’s natural beauty no matter the time of year.
Explore Tahquamenon Falls
One of the biggest draws of this state park is its two scenic waterfalls.
The Upper Tahquamenon Falls, the largest waterfall in Michigan, is more than 200 feet wide and 50 feet high. Its nickname is “Root Beer Falls” due to its amber color that comes from tannins in the surrounding swamps. You can view the falls from a boardwalk viewing area or by descending steps to the base of the gorge.
The Lower Tahquamenon Falls sits four miles downstream from the Upper Falls. This stunning series of five small waterfalls cascades around an island. You can get to these falls by trail or footbridge.
To hop between the falls, you can walk on a trail connecting the two or travel on a fee-based shuttle that operates seasonally. Be sure to check the shuttle schedule before starting your trip.
Hiking trails
The Tahquamenon Falls State Park has more than 35 miles of hiking trails. The longest path is the North Country National Scenic Trail, which stretches 16 miles through the park.
The popular River Trail connects the Upper and Lower Falls. This 5.1-mile hike is challenging and takes three hours to walk one way.
The Giant Pines Loop is an easier 3.8-mile route that got its name from two giant white pine trees along the trail. Find more information about hiking trails here.
Camping
Make your trip an overnight adventure by camping at one of the many sites around Tahquamenon Falls. There are both modern and rustic campgrounds, as well as backcountry sites.
More overnight options include a camper cabin and the Tahquamenon Falls Lodge, which is located between the Upper and Lower Falls.
Visit their website for hours of operation or to make a reservation.
Seasonal activities
You can enjoy the Tahquamenon Falls State Park any time of year. During the warmer seasons, you can row or canoe along the Tahquamenon River between the falls or paddle to the island. Consider fishing at one of the 13 inland lakes at the park as well.
Viewing wildlife and birdwatching are other popular activities for visitors. The park is full of songbirds, bald eagles and hundreds of other bird species.
In the winter, snowmobile, cross-country ski and snowshoe along the miles of marked trails. Check online for road closures and trail conditions.
Planning your trip
The state park is open 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily year-round. All visitors must purchase a recreation passport to enter. The park is pet-friendly, and leashed dogs are welcome on all trails.
Photo credit: Getty Images
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