The centerpiece of Tahquamenon Falls State Park's nearly 50,000 acres is the Tahquamenon River with its waterfalls viewable from multiple accessible overlooks. The Upper Falls, one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River, has a drop of nearly 50 feet, is more than 200 feet across and has a maximum water flow of more than 50,000 gallons per second. Just 4 miles downstream is the Lower Falls, which consists of a series of five smaller falls cascading around an island that can be reached by a rowboat rented from a park concession.

Visit the Tahquamenon Falls State Park page for more information.

Upper Falls

At 200 feet wide and 50 feet tall, the Upper Falls is the largest waterfall in Michigan. Take a walk along the quarter-mile paved trail to the viewing areas. Climb the 93 steps down to the brink viewing platform to get an up-close look and feel the mist in your face. For those with even more energy, follow the paved trail downstream to the gorge, where 112 steps wind down to the river's edge. View the Upper Falls Day Use Area map.

Lower Falls

The entrance to the Lower Falls is 4 miles east of the Upper Falls along M-123. These falls are easily viewed and photographed from the paved walkway. A quarter-mile boardwalk will take you through thick coniferous forest, ending at the viewing platforms for an up-close experience. Rowboats can be rented from the concession to access the island. View the Lower Falls Day Use area map.

Visiting in the winter? View the winter trail maps.

View a summer hiking map or a winter hiking map.

Snowshoeing at Tahquamenon Falls
Watch a video of park naturalist Theresa Neal taking us on a snowshoe adventure, exploring the serene sights and sounds of Tahquamenon Falls and a Pure Michigan winter.

Clark Lake Loop 
5.2 miles.  After visiting the Upper and Lower Falls, drive, hike or bicycle down Clark Lake Road to access the hiking trail to Clark Lake. This remote inland lake is a great location for a picnic or quick snack as you enjoy the breeze on the bordering ancient sand dunes.

River Trail 
4.0 miles. Many hikers come to Tahquamenon to tackle the infamous trail between the falls. This four-mile linear trail is rated difficult due to exposed roots, hilly terrain, and numerous staircases, but ranks as the most scenic trail in the park. A privately-operated shuttle is available Memorial Day to Labor Day to transport hikers between the Upper and Lower Falls. Check the schedule and current fees before you head out as times vary by season. Make sure to have plenty of water, a snack and bug spray along for the hike. Bicycles are not allowed on this trail. 

Nature Trail
0.5 miles. The Nature Trail (#10-#11) provides an alternative route from the Upper Falls view back to the parking lot. This forested trail features excellent birding during the spring and is carpeted with ferns during the summer. The Nature Trail is also part of the lantern-lit ski and snowshoe trail every Saturday in February.

Wilderness Loop
7.4 miles. Aptly named, the wilderness loop leads hikers through the most remote areas of the park. The terrain varies from old hemlock forests to peatland areas, and features an impressive beaver pond and dam along the eastern portion of the loop. Be advised: during mid-summer the bracken ferns grow tall, requiring a close eye to keep on the trail.

Giant Pines Loop
3.8 miles. Two massive giant white pine trees are the hallmark of this trail, remnants from the logging era of the late 1800s. The loop meanders through a hardwood forest featuring ancient hemlocks, bubbling streams and plenty of woodpecker activity. This trail is groomed with a set track during the winter for cross country skiing.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a great destination for your group tours! Your group will be guided by the park interpreter who can offer insight on the unique attributes within the park. Guided tours take approximately 45 minutes and highlight special features of the park along the paved walkway to the upper falls viewing areas. 

Tours are $50, plus a $18 Recreation Passport fee per bus is required for entry into the park and can be obtained at the park entrance. Guided tours should be scheduled 4-6 weeks in advance. Please contact Theresa Neal, Park Interpreter by email or call 906-259-3959.