Have you ever wondered about Michigan’s Tahquamenon Falls State Park? It’s a true gem in the Upper Peninsula. The Upper Falls has a unique “root beer” color. The Lower Falls has five smaller falls, creating a peaceful scene.
This natural wonder offers many activities for all ages. You’ll be amazed by the power and beauty of one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River.
Key Takeaways
- Explore the breathtaking Tahquamenon Falls, one of the largest waterfalls in the eastern United States
- Hike over 35 miles of trails through the park’s lush forests and scenic landscapes
- Paddle the Tahquamenon River and fish for a variety of trophy-sized trout and pike
- Discover the rich history and logging heritage of the region at the Tahquamenon Logging Museum
- Enjoy a scenic Riverboat Tour and immerse yourself in the park’s tranquil natural beauty
Explore Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a 48,000-acre natural wonder in Michigan’s Eastern Upper Peninsula. It has 13 inland lakes, 24 miles of the Tahquamenon River, and over 35 miles of hiking trails. It’s a top spot for outdoor lovers to enjoy nature.
The park is full of lush forests and diverse wildlife. Look out for white-tailed deer, moose, black bears, and many bird species. Whether hiking, fishing, or just enjoying the views, there’s always something to do.
Over 500,000 visitors come each year to enjoy the park’s beauty and activities. You can camp, fish, paddle, or spot wildlife. It’s a place where you can find hidden treasures and make lasting memories.
Exploring the park’s hiking trails is a must. Try the Giant Pines Loop, Lower Falls to Upper Falls Restaurant trail, Clark Lake Loop, or Wilderness Loop. For a bigger challenge, check out the 4-mile Trail Between Da Falls or the 5-mile River Trail.
“Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a true gem, offering visitors the chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. Whether you’re seeking adventure or simply a peaceful escape, this park has something for everyone.”
Don’t miss the Toonerville Trolley & Riverboat Tour. It’s a 5.5-mile forest ride followed by a 21-mile riverboat trip. It’s a unique way to see the park’s beauty from a different angle.
Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a natural treasure in Michigan. It offers endless adventures and a chance to connect with nature. Come and see the wonders for yourself.
Marvel at the Upper Tahquamenon Falls
Visiting Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a must. The Upper Tahquamenon Falls are the main draw. They are the second-largest east of the Mississippi River. The falls drop nearly 50 feet and are over 200 feet wide.
At peak flow, the falls cascade with over 50,000 gallons of water per second. This creates a breathtaking sight.
The Majestic “Root Beer” Falls
The Upper Tahquamenon Falls are famous for their “root beer” color. This comes from the tannins in the cedar and hemlock trees. The color is unique and draws many visitors.
There’s a short, ADA-accessible hike to the falls. You can also go down stairs for a closer look. The roar and mist are unforgettable.
The Upper Tahquamenon Falls have amazed visitors for years. They are a key part of Tahquamenon Falls State Park.
Discover the Lower Tahquamenon Falls
The Lower Tahquamenon Falls are just as stunning as the Upper Falls. They are four miles downstream and have five smaller cascades around a small island. This spot offers a peaceful and close-to-nature experience.
You can reach the Lower Falls on a short, easy trail. Or, you can rent a boat and paddle to the island for a closer look. This place is perfect for those who want a calm, beautiful spot in the park.
“The Lower Tahquamenon Falls offer a more intimate and serene encounter with nature, providing a welcomed contrast to the grandeur of the Upper Falls.”
Exploring the Lower Tahquamenon Falls is a treat. You’ll see five cascades around a small island. The sound and sight of the water are calming. Hiking or paddling here will make you appreciate the park’s beauty even more.
Tahquamenon Falls State Park, Michigan: Best Things to Do – Top Picks
Hiking Trails Galore
Tahquamenon Falls State Park is in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. It’s famous for its waterfalls but also has lots of hiking trails. These trails are over 35 miles long and are well-kept.
The River Trail is a favorite. It links the Upper and Lower Falls, showing off the Tahquamenon River’s beauty. For a tougher hike, try the Wilderness Loop. It goes through old-growth forests and wetlands.
The Clark Lake Loop is great for a calm walk. It shows off beautiful views. Hikers can also find part of the North Country National Scenic Trail here. This trail offers amazing views and chances to see wildlife.
| Trail Name | Difficulty Level | Distance | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| River Trail | Moderate | 4 miles | Connects Upper and Lower Falls |
| Wilderness Loop | Challenging | 9 miles | Old-growth forests and wetlands |
| Clark Lake Loop | Easy | 3 miles | Scenic lake views |
| North Country National Scenic Trail | Moderate to Challenging | Varies | Panoramic vistas, wildlife viewing |
Paddle the Tahquamenon River
The Tahquamenon River flows through Tahquamenon Falls State Park. It offers a peaceful and beautiful paddling experience. Whether you love kayaking or enjoy canoeing, the river is perfect for exploring the park’s natural beauty.
In summer, you can rent rowboats or canoes at the Lower Falls concession stand. This lets you explore the river at your own speed. If you bring your own kayak or canoe, you can paddle up to 17 miles. This journey takes you from the Lower Falls to Whitefish Bay on Lake Superior.
As you paddle, you’ll see stunning views of forests, wetlands, and wildlife. Look out for birds, deer, and other animals. Fishing fans can try to catch trout and bass.
The Tahquamenon River is great for a calm paddle or an exciting day on the water. It’s a unique outdoor experience. Dive into the peaceful nature of Tahquamenon Falls State Park and enjoy the Tahquamenon River, paddling, canoeing, and kayaking.
The Upper Peninsula of Michigan has over 1,700 miles of shoreline and 4,300 inland lakes. It’s a paradise for outdoor recreation lovers with its diverse waters and beautiful landscapes.
| Top Paddling Destinations in the Upper Peninsula | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Tahquamenon Falls State Park | Explore the Tahquamenon River, paddle to the Upper and Lower Falls |
| Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore | Discover unique sea caves and rock formations along the Lake Superior shoreline |
| Porcupine Mountains State Park | Kayak on the scenic Lake of the Clouds and other inland lakes |
| Seney National Wildlife Refuge | Spot wildlife like red foxes, porcupines, and bears while paddling the Manistique River |
Whether you’re an experienced paddler or new to it, the Tahquamenon River and the Upper Peninsula’s waters are full of beauty. They offer endless chances to explore Michigan’s great outdoors.
Cast a Line for Trophy Fish
Anglers visiting Tahquamenon Falls State Park will find many fishing spots. The Tahquamenon River runs through the park and is full of game fish. You can catch brown trout, muskellunge, walleye, northern pike, and smallmouth bass.
There are many ways to fish here. You can fish from the shore, rent a boat, or explore the 13 inland lakes. Lakes like Betsy Lake, Clark Lake, and Sheephead Lake are great for catching northern pike and yellow perch. Whether you’re experienced or new to fishing, you can catch big fish in Tahquamenon Country.
Fishing Opportunities Abound
The Tahquamenon River and the park’s lakes offer different fishing experiences. You can catch brown trout in the river’s fast waters. Or, try to catch muskellunge, walleye, and northern pike in the lakes. For smallmouth bass, the park’s waterways are perfect.
But there’s more to fish for outside the park too. Michigan’s Upper Peninsula has many lakes. Lakes like Bond Falls, Chicagon, the Cisco Chain of Lakes, Emily, Gogebic, Otter, Peavey, Perch, Rice, Ruth, Lake St. Katherine, Winslow, Lake Independence, Lake Gogebic, and Lake Medora are great for fishing.
If you’re looking for big brown trout, muskellunge, walleye, northern pike, or smallmouth bass, you’re in the right place. The fishing in Tahquamenon Falls State Park and the surrounding area is unforgettable.
Winter Wonderland Activities
Tahquamenon Falls State Park turns into a winter wonderland. It offers many cold-weather activities for visitors. Snowmobilers can ride on trails like Trail 8 and the Tahquamenon Scenic Byway.
Cross-country skiers and snowshoers can explore over 35 miles of trails. The Great Pines Trail offers stunning views of the frozen Upper Falls. Guided snowshoe hikes and the Lantern-Lit Snowshoe Trail add to the magic.
Tahquamenon Falls State Park offers both excitement and peace. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a memorable winter experience. Whether you love the thrill of snowmobiling or the calm of cross-country skiing, there’s something for everyone.
“Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a true winter wonderland, offering a variety of outdoor activities that showcase the beauty of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in the colder months.”
The Upper Peninsula gets an average of 200 inches of snow each year. It’s a great place for winter sports like fat tire biking, ice skating, skiing, and snowshoeing. Here, you can fully enjoy the season and see the region’s natural beauty.
Snowmobiling and Cross-Country Skiing
For those who love excitement, Tahquamenon Falls State Park has many snowmobile trails. Cross-country skiers and snowshoers can enjoy over 35 miles of groomed trails. The Great Pines Trail offers amazing views of the frozen Upper Falls.
- Snowmobile on Trail 8 and the Tahquamenon Scenic Byway
- Cross-country ski or snowshoe the Great Pines Trail
- Join a guided snowshoe hike or experience the Lantern-Lit Snowshoe Trail
Explore the Tahquamenon Logging Museum
The Tahquamenon Logging Museum is a short drive from Tahquamenon Falls State Park. It shows the history of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula timber industry. As you enter, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time. You’ll learn about the lives and achievements of the lumberjacks who worked here.
Inside, you’ll see a huge Paul Bunyan statue. This is a tribute to the logging legends of the area. You can walk through old buildings and see artifacts that tell stories of the logging days. These stories bring the Tahquamenon Country to life.
Visiting the Tahquamenon Logging Museum helps you understand the area’s heritage. You’ll see how lumberjacks lived and worked in the wilderness. Their hard work and determination left a lasting impact on the Tahquamenon Logging Museum and the Upper Peninsula’s logging history.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| 84% of the Upper Peninsula of Michigan is covered in forests | 84% |
| Michigan’s Upper Peninsula has approximately 2,500 miles of snowmobiling trails | 2,500 miles |
| Tahquamenon Falls State Park includes the Upper Falls, which are 200 feet across and have a 50-foot drop, spilling 50,000 gallons of water per second | 50,000 gallons/sec |
“The Tahquamenon Logging Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the rich history and heritage of Michigan’s lumberjack culture. It’s a true window into the past, showcasing the ingenuity and resilience of the men who carved out a living from the wilderness.”
If you love history, the outdoors, or just want to learn about the past, visit the Tahquamenon Logging Museum. It’s a key part of the Tahquamenon Country. Learn about the logging industry and the lumberjacks who made this area what it is today.
Enjoy a Scenic Riverboat Tour
At Tahquamenon Falls State Park, the Toonerville Trolley & Riverboat Tour is a top attraction. It’s a full-day adventure that lets you see the park from land and water. First, you ride a narrow-gauge train through the forest, where you might see wildlife.
Then, you get on a riverboat for a 21-mile trip down the Tahquamenon River. You’ll learn about the area’s history, logging, and Native American culture. The tour ends with a visit to the Upper Tahquamenon Falls from a special viewing spot.
Toonerville Trolley & Riverboat Tour
This tour combines train and riverboat travel for a memorable experience. It’s perfect for nature lovers, history fans, or anyone looking for a scenic trip. The Toonerville Trolley & Riverboat Tour is a highlight of Tahquamenon Falls State Park in Michigan.
“The Toonerville Trolley & Riverboat Tour is a truly unique and unforgettable way to experience the natural wonders of Tahquamenon Falls State Park. From the train ride through the forests to the serene riverboat journey, it’s an adventure that immerses you in the park’s rich history and stunning scenery.”
Whether you love nature, history, or scenic views, the Toonerville Trolley & Riverboat Tour is a must-see. It’s a mix of a riverboat tour and a historic scenic tour. You’ll dive into the park’s outdoor recreation and cultural heritage.
Conclusion
Tahquamenon Falls State Park in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a true natural wonder. It offers endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park’s stunning waterfalls, from the Upper Tahquamenon Falls to the Lower Falls, are just the start.
Visitors can explore miles of hiking trails, paddle the Tahquamenon River, and fish for trophy-sized catches. They can also dive into the region’s rich logging history.
Whether you’re looking for thrilling winter adventures or a peaceful summer escape, Tahquamenon Falls State Park has it all. It showcases the best of Michigan’s wilderness. With its diverse outdoor activities and breathtaking natural attractions, it’s a must-visit for anyone exploring the Upper Peninsula.
From the cascading waterfalls to the miles of scenic trails, Tahquamenon Falls State Park truly embodies Michigan’s natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking a day of adventure or a weekend of relaxation, this destination will leave a lasting impression. It will inspire you to explore more of the Upper Peninsula’s wonders.
