Tahquamenon Falls: Michigan's Best Waterfall in the UP
Everything you need to know about exploring Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Quick notes about visiting Tahquamenon Falls:
- Both waterfalls require short walks to gain viewing access. No drive-up options
- Tahquamenon Falls is the second-largest waterfall east of the Mississippi
- You can visit Tahquamenon Falls State Park Year Round
- You can hike 4 miles between the lower and upper falls which takes about 2 hours one way
Directions to Tahquamenon Falls
Tahquamenon Falls is located 12 miles west of Paradise and 28 miles east of Newberry, MI.
The Falls are off of Highway 123 in Michigan’s North East corner of the Upper Peninsula
Driving Distances from these cities:
- Marquette: 2.5 Hours
- Munising: 1.5 Hours
- Houghton: 4 Hours
- Traverse City: 3.5 Hours
- Grand Rapids: 5 Hours
- Detroit: 6 Hours
The Upper and Lower Falls are separated by 5 miles and is about a 10 minute drive between the two.
Hiking to the Upper Falls
Visiting the Upper Falls is the one thing you should experience if you are limited on time.
The paved path to Tahquamenon’s Upper Falls is flat and very convenient.
You can access an unforgettable viewpoint about a quarter mile from the parking lot.
For those who are in good shape or want the entire upper falls experience should hike down the stairs to the closest viewing platform.
The one closest to the falls is 94 steps, while the lower “gorge view”, is 116 steps.
People who aren’t in good shape should be weary and definitely bring enough water.
Related Read: 9 Michigan Waterfalls you NEED to Visit NOW!
Lower Tahquamenon Falls Area
The Lower Falls is a lovely series of cascades that are easily accessible for visitors.
Follow the boardwalk trail and .3 mile later you will arrive at the lower falls viewing platform.
The lower falls aren’t as scenic from a waterfall standpoint but what makes them worthwhile is the ability to wade in the water upstream, take a boat ride around the area, or hang out for a picnic.
This area is much better suited for folks who want to hang out and enjoy the scenery of the area.
Lower Falls Island at Tahquamenon
The Lower Falls area just added a pedestrian bridge connecting guests to the river island.
This now allows visitors to get an amazing viewpoint of the lower falls waterfall.
Because of it’s recent renovation, this area is now completely wheelchair accessible!
Hiking the Tahquamenon Falls River Trail: Lower to Upper Falls
Hiking from the Lower to the Upper Falls or vice versa is a gorgeous but demanding hike.
The hike from the Lower to the Upper Falls is 4 miles one way and takes about 2 hours to complete.
Factor in heat, bugs, exposed roots, downed trees, hills, and more. If you’re a good hiker, you will love it.
Jordan's Shuttle Service
Jordans Shuttles run from lower to the upper falls and vice versa from 12-8pm.
He will pick you up in his very comfortable van and shuttle those who can’t/don’t want to make the trek back down.
The pickup location in the Upper Falls is adjacent to the start of the Upper Falls trail & the Lower Falls pickup is at the parking lot closest to the river trail start.
$17 for first person & $3 for each additional person.
THE 2022 SHUTTLE IS RUNNING! Plan accordingly if you can’t make the whole hike and need a ride!
More Tahquamenon Falls State Park Hiking Trails
There are also a few other trails in the area if you are looking for some more lovely scenery. Use the map below to see what trails are available:
- Clark Lake Loop – 5.2 Miles Roundtrip
- Wilderness Loop – 7.4 Miles Roundtrip
- Giant Pines Loop – 3.8 Miles Roundtrip
Tahquamenon Falls State Park Hiking Map
Winter at Tahquamenon Falls
Just because it gets painfully cold in the Upper Peninsula, doesn’t mean this waterfall and state park shuts down.
Winter is arguably the best time to visit as there is no bugs and smaller crowds. Winter activities at Tahquamenon include:
Snowshoeing
Cross Country Skiing
Snowmobiiling – There are over 200 miles of groomed trails in the region for snowmobilers!
Things to Do at Tahquamenon Falls State Park
- Visit the Tahquamenon Fall Brewery & Pub – The Brewery is adjacent to the Parking Lot at the Upper Falls Location. Hot days in the summer means this place is packed
- Rent a Boat at the Lower Falls – Visitors can rent a boat and paddle the lower section of the park for scenic views
- Wade in the Water – Cool the body down in the river and enjoy a day in nature
- Fish – Spots between the Lower Falls and Whitefish Bay are popular and great spots to Fish in Michigan
- Toonerville Trolley & Rowboat Tours – Originating in Soo Junction, MI, board this 5.5 mile train ride towards the Tahquamenon River. Next, board your boat for the next 21 miles of scenic paradise. For booking & more info, visit the Toonerville Trolley site
Camping at Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Lower Falls Campgrounds
The Lower Falls Campgrounds offer two modern & desirable camping options.
- Portage Campground
- Hemlock Campground
These are two excellent campgrounds that come equipped with electricity, bench, fire pit, and communal bathrooms.
Although each campsite is close to each other, camping here is very comfortable.
More important camping information to know at Tahquamenon Falls:
- Camping is permitted and encouraged year round at Tahquamenon Falls. Be sure to book in advance because this is one of the most visited spots in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan!
- Lower Falls Hemlock Campground is open in the Winter and year round. If you can’t find camping at the State Park, there are other options in the area to consider!
If you’re camping in the area, be sure to keep your eyes open for a chance to see the Northern Lights in the UP!
Tahquamenon Falls State Park Information to Know
- Tahquamenon Falls Park hours are from 8AM-10PM
- The Cost to enter Tahquamenon Falls is $17/vehicle for MI residents while non-resident day passes are $9 or $34/year. Michigan residents can also purchase a states park pass for $34/year.
- Gas is limited in the area. Check your fuel levels before venturing to far
- Cell Signal is sporadic as it is in most parts of the UP. (Verizon is bad while T Mobile is much more reliable)
- Seasons vary drastically here. Pack for your season. Bug Spray, Winter Gear, Umbrellas
- Both waterfalls have wheelchair accessible trails. The Upper Falls wheelchair accessbility ends at either staircase but still provide stunning viewpoints to enjoy
- There are ample bathrooms at both the Upper and Lower falls
- Can you bring Pets to Tahquamenon Falls? PETS are allowed on leash but CANNOT be left in cars. Violators will be ticketed.
- Daily 45 minute Tours start at 2 pm from the Fact Shack at the Upper Falls
Best Things to do around the Paradise Area
Don’t just rush out of the area after visiting these iconic waterfalls!
There is plenty of other things that should be considered if you have time. Some attractions near the park include:
- Whitefish Bay
- Crisp Point Lighthouse
- Newberry
Upper Peninsula Travel Planner
If this hasn’t been on your radar, make sure it is!
If you have any more questions or suggestions for things to do please contact me or refer to my posts below.
Words are hard to explain when you get to experience this beauty in person, so make sure you don’t skip it.