Top Things To Do in Tahquamenon Falls State Park:
Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. It's home to one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi and offers stunning views all year round. In addition, the park offers various recreational activities like hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
Fun Fact
As the 2nd most voluminous water fall in the eastern US, Tahquamenon Falls pours over 50,000 gallons of water over the Upper Falls per second.
Table of Contents
Morning at Tahquamenon
Wake up at Rivermouth Campground
Start your morning with a cup of coffee brewed over the campfire with your percolator and some oatmeal heated with your lightweight stove. This is our go-to camping breakfast, takes under 15 minutes, and fuels us for a day full of adventures.
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Head to the Lower Falls to park for the Lower to Upper falls hike
[10.1 miles with option to cut in half; 626 ft elevation gain; out & back]
Although AllTrails has you starting at the Upper Falls, our recommendation is to start at the Lower Falls. The hike to the Upper Falls in more scenic in this direction and we preferred the anticipation of approaching the breathtaking Upper Falls. The Lower Falls are a beautiful site to see and a great place to start your day.
Tip: Bring your swimming suit or waterproof shoes and wade around in the clear waters of the Tahquamenon River.
Take in the beauty of the Tahquamenon River
Hiking to the Upper Falls and back is roughly 4 miles, however, it follows along next to the Tahquamenon River with sights to see along the entire way. We highly recommend this scenic hike! Give yourself at least 2 hours to complete the hike from the Lower to Upper Falls (one way).
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Afternoon at Tahquamenon
Once you reach the Upper Falls, take the scenic trail to the overlooks
The Upper Falls are much larger, yet equally as beautiful as the Lower Falls, making the destination of your hike very rewarding. There are two overlooks once you arrive: the northern overlook brings you up close to the rushing falls, while the southern overlook provides a more distant vantage point to admire the Tahquamenon River and vegetation surrounding the Upper Falls (pictured below). If time allows, we recommend heading to both overlooks to gain an appreciation for how massive the Upper Falls truly are.
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Enjoy a well-deserved brew at Tahquamenon Falls Brewery & Pub
Located near the parking lot of the Upper Falls is Tahquamenon Falls Brewery & Pub. This is a great place to refuel after your long hike or refresh with a nice cold craft beer. The Tahquamenon Falls Brewery & Pub has the classic "up north" charm you would expect to find in an Upper Peninsula restaurant. Try their raspberry wheat ale or black bear stout and you will not be disappointed!
Try: Their Raspberry Wheat Ale or Black Bear Stout!
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Hike back to the lower falls parking
Now that you are refueled and refreshed, a 4 mile hike awaits you back downstream to the Lower Falls. If you are not up for the 4 mile hike back to the lower falls parking lot, a shuttle is offered that can take you back and forth from the Lower to Upper Falls parking lots for a small fee. We found the hike to be so beautiful, that even on the way back we were noticing breathtaking scenery, new critters, wildlife, and wildflowers we never noticed on the way there.
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Relax after a long day of hiking at Whitefish Point
At the most north-eastern point of Michigan's Upper Peninsula is Whitefish Point, home to the historical 1800's Whitefish Point Lighthouse. Another main point of interest at Whitefish Point is the Shipwreck Museum, home to Edmund Fitzgerald's
shipwreck artifacts and memorial. Just past the historical village is a beautiful beach surrounded by the crystal clear (albeit fidget) waters of Lake Superior. The perfect place to kick back and relax after a long day of adventures.
Shipwreck Museum Tickets: $14/Adult
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Evening at Tahquamenon
Eat a hearty dinner at The Inn Gastropub & Smokehouse [Paradise, MI]
Stop in Paradise for some delicious burgers and homemade fries at The Inn Gastropub & Smokehouse. With everything down to the ketchup being made in-house, the Inn Gastropub & Smokehouse will allow you to experience Upper Peninsula dining at its finest. If you have room, be sure to try one of their famous (and huge) slices of mouthwatering carrot cake.
Try: Their famous carrot cake!
End your day with some good ole fashioned s'mores around the campfire
One of our favorite places to camp in Michigan is the Upper Peninsula. Far from any major cities or light pollution, the Upper Peninsula give you a true appreciation for nature, the stars, and the radiant night sky. Cook yourself a delicious s'more while appreciating what it feels like to be unplugged in pure Michigan.
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Planning Your Trip
Which is better, Upper or Lower Tahquamenon Falls?
Both the Upper and Lower Tahquamenon Falls are worth a visit. This is why we recommend the Lower to Upper Falls hike, which allows you to experience the beauty of both. The Lower Falls are smaller falls, yet more expansive and most people enjoy wading in the waters near the Lower Falls. The Upper Falls are a magnificent site to see, however, is meant for viewing only with no access to the river.
Also Read: Hiking in Bear Territory
How much does it cost to get into Tahquamenon Falls?
It cost $9 for a non-Michigan resident daily pass to enter any Michigan State Park. For more information about recreation passes to enter Michigan State Parks, click here.
Entry: $9 for a non-Michigan resident daily pass to enter Michigan State Parks
What is the best Lodging at Tahquamenon Falls State Park?
We recommend staying at Rivermouth Campground when visiting Tahquamenon Falls. To this date, this is one of our favorite campgrounds because of the towering trees that surround each campsite and the river that backs up to most of the rustic campsites. The rustic section of this campground is serene, peaceful, and highly sought after so make sure to book early in the season.
Suggested Lodging: Rivermouth Campground
Not a camper? Search for a great deal on hotels in Paradise, MI during your travel dates below:
Camping Tips:
Read up on Bear Safety ahead of your trip - over 15,000 black bears live in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Although black bears are less of a threat than grizzly bears, bear spray is still a good precaution. This is an excellent video demonstrating how and when to use your bear spray.
Unlike grizzly bears, if a black bear approaches you be sure to FIGHT BACK.
Before entering the park, you may consider buying bear mace from a store in Paradise - We used Frontiersmen & although we never needed to use it, felt it was a reliable choice.
Bring a separate set of "tent clothes" that you only wear in the tent, to avoid the scent of food that could be on your clothes throughout the day
Purchase unscented shampoo/soap/deodorant etc. and avoid any body sprays/perfumes/cologne when tent-camping
Download some of the park trails on AllTrails ahead of your trip because phone service is limited to none
Bring waterproof jackets/pants
How much time do you need at Tahquamenon Falls?
The main hike from the Lower to the Upper Falls can be completed within one day. There are many other things to do at Tahquamenon Falls State Park that may incentivize you to lengthen your stay, such as kayaking, camping, swimming, and fishing.
J&L Suggested Duration: 1-2 Days
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When is the best time of year to visit Tahquamenon Falls?
This depends on your preference and the activities in which you plan on doing at Tahquamenon Falls. The busiest time of year is peak summer months, allowing for optimal swimming, fishing, boating, camping & hiking. However, many choose to go in the spring to avoid the crowds and have comfortable hiking weather. Others prefer fall for the same reason with the addition of the beautiful fall foliage of the Upper Peninsula. The beauty of Tahquamenon Falls State Park is that you can enjoy activities throughout almost any time of year!
Suggested Time of Year: Late Spring/Early Fall
High/Low Temperatures by Month:
April: 48˚ F/ 25˚ F
May: 63˚ F / 37˚ F
June: 72˚ F / 45˚ F
July: 77˚ F / 50˚ F
August: 75˚ F / 49˚ F
September: 67˚ F / 43˚ F
Getting Around Tahquamenon Falls
Is there cellular service at Tahquamenon Falls State Park?
Limited to none within Tahquamenon Falls State Park and Michigan's Upper Peninsula altogether. SAFETY TIP: learn how to download interactive maps to your phone that can give you driving, walking, & biking directions even without cellular service!
