Tahquamenon Falls State Park is one of the State of Michigan’s natural beauties. These majestic waterfalls are visited by over half a million people a year! The park consists of over 45,000 of the most beautiful acres that most individuals will ever be able to see. There are many activites that visitors can become involved in when they visit the falls. For example, some visitors are able to hike, enjoy the Tahquamenon River or simply bask in the beauty of 13 different inland lakes. Waterfalls are the main reason that visitors stop by this area. There is a drop that is 50 feet in the Upper Falls while smaller drops and rapids make up the Lower Falls. The river is extremely fast dropping as much as 50,000 gallons of fresh water into Whitefish Bay below the falls. The only faster cascade of water is at Niagara Falls!
The most popular season to visit the falls begins during the early spring and lasts until the end of the fall. However, there are activities to take part in even when it may be cold outside. Visitors are able to enjoy the area around the falls through snowmobiling, camping, hiking, fishing, canoeing and photography. When you are at the falls there are also nearby attractions that can keep you entertained. The nearby town of Paradise has a few small stores as well as a restaurant. The park is also located close to the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum at Whitefish Point. This museum tells the story of the Edmond Fitzgerald an iron ore freighter that sank during a very strong storm.
The falls are large enough that you can feel that you are alone even though there may be thousands of other people around you. However, in order to truly enjoy the area and the falls you may want to consider spending a night at the falls. Camping is available at over 350 sites but should be reserved in advance for the high season. Visitors should be aware that there is only one paved road that can be used to access the park. This road, M123 may or may not be plowed during the winter months. This means that visitors may need to rent snowmobiles to access the park should they desire.
Wildlife is plentiful at Tahquamenon Falls State Park. There are over 125 species of birds, moose, wolves, fish, bears and other animals. Visitors are allowed to fish within the park and the park office has many helpful tips on where to go in order to find the best fishing conditions. The Michigan park system is ready and willing to have you as their guest. Make sure that you pay the $8 out of state fee or purchase your Michigan State Park passport to avoid a hefty fine! The Tahquamenon Falls State Park is located at 41382 West M-123 Paradise, MI 49768.