Discover Michigan’s Awe-Inspiring Tahquamenon Falls

Nestled deep in Michigan‘s Upper Peninsula, Tahquamenon Falls is a stunning series of waterfalls recognized by its distinctive cola-colored waters. The Michigan State Parks describe these falls as the “one of Michigan’s most awe-inspiring sights.“ Featured in the writings of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and a song by Sufjan Stevens, these falls have captured imaginations of many.

The Falls of Tahquamenon State Park

Within Michigan’s second-largest state park lies the impressive Tahquamenon Falls, the second-largest waterfall east of the Mississippi River. Pronounced to rhyme with “phenomenon,” the Tahquamenon Falls is essentially two separate parts: the Upper and Lower Falls. The Upper Falls is 200 feet across and tumbles nearly 48 feet, creating a powerful cascade. Downstream, the Lower Falls are smaller but more spread out, forming a series of five waterfalls surrounding an island that can be toured by rowboat.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Long before Henry Wadsworth Longfellow immortalized these falls in “The Song of Hiawatha,” where Hiawatha builds his canoe “by the rushing Tahquamenaw,” the Ojibwa people used the river’s waters for hunting and fishing. In the 1800s, this river was important to loggers, who sent timber down its currents to downriver mills. Today, the distinctive cola-brown color, from tannic acid emanating from cedar trees, has given it the name “Root Beer Falls.”

Discovering Both Upper and Lower Falls

Both the Upper and Lower Falls are worth a visit, and many enjoy the scenic Lower to Upper Falls hike. Smaller yet expansive, the Lower Falls allow wading areas, hence becoming the favorite point of visitors in search of a closer touch with nature.

Wildlife and Nature in the Park

This park has a thick, surrounding forest area sheltering all types ofwildlife from white-tail deer to moose, bears, wolves, porcupines, otters, minks, foxes, coyotes, and beavers, including many species of birds. This biodiversity makes it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

Activities: Swimming, Camping, and More

While there is no swimming allowed at the Upper Falls due to safety reasons, there are some rather natural swimming holes that visitors can use near the Lower Falls. Canoeing and kayaking on the Tahquamenon River offer quiet ways to see wildlife in the area. The park also has multiple campgrounds, lodging facilities, a boating access site, over 35 miles of trails, and viewing platforms at both the Upper and Lower Falls. Please note that flying drones on-site is prohibited.

Dining at Tahquamenon Falls Brewery & Pub

After a day of exploration, make a stop at the charming Tahquamenon Falls Brewery & Pub, located nearby. This place is known for its rustic atmosphere and has a selection of great dishes, paired with locally brewed beers that just make for a perfect blend of comfort and refreshment.

Getting There and What to Know

Clear signage within Tahquamenon State Park directs visitors to both falls, and parking is available for a small fee. Entrance fees at the gate are$17/vehicle, $11/motorcycle for MI residents. If you are from out of state, it will be $9 for a day pass, or $34 for the year. Paved park trails provide an easy walk to the falls, and visitors are invited to sample a “pasty,”, a favorite Michigan Upper Peninsula treat.

Whether it’s hiking the trails, catching glimpses of wildlife, or having dinner at the on-premise pub, it is guaranteed that you will leave Tahquamenon Falls with a truly unforgettable experience immersed in nature and steeped in rich history in Michigan.

Address: McMillan Township, MI 49768, United States
Location on Google Maps.

UnusualPlaces Field Notes

Location

Tahquamenon Falls State Park (official park arrival point), Paradise, Michigan, USA

Coordinates

46.610734, -85.206323

Access

Separate Upper and Lower Falls areas with accessible viewpoints. Upper Falls has a new accessible boardwalk; Lower Falls island reached by bridge or rented rowboat

Admission

Vehicle Recreation Passport: Michigan plates $15 annually at renewal, plus $5 when bought separately; non-Michigan plates $12/day or $42/year. Entry on foot/bicycle does not require a passport

Time needed

The DNR’s scheduled naturalist walk to the Upper Falls takes about 45 minutes; its education page describes guided group tours as approximately one hour. Self-guided time varies: the Upper Falls has a half-mile accessible viewing route, while the Lower Falls island loop is about 1.5 miles round trip. These estimates cover selected routes, not the entire large park.

Best season

The DNR describes different activities through the year rather than one best season: spring and summer suit hiking and water recreation, fall is popular for autumn color, and winter offers snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Check current conditions and seasonal facilities before setting out.

Opening hours

Daily 08:00–22:00 year-round

Location checked

2026-09-16

Facts checked

2026-09-30

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