One of Michigan’s greatest treasures, Tahquamenon Falls, has captivated visitors for generations. Whether visiting to see vibrant autumn leaves, the gushing spring runoff, or witnessing a winter wonderland in January, Tahquamenon is a must-see destination. The falls are one of the Eastern Upper Peninsula’s most popular destinations with unbeatable sights and sounds. But do you know the correct way to pronounce the name of the Midwest’s largest waterfalls? It is “Tuh-KWAHM’-in-uhn.” Aside from pronunciation, here are seven things you might not know about Tahquamenon Falls State Park.
1. It’s Michigan’s 2nd Largest State Park
The Tahquamenon Falls State Park encompasses 46,179 acres of land making it Michigan’s second largest state park. Although it is surpassed only by the vast Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, which covers 59,020 acres, Tahquamenon Falls still boasts an expanse more than four times the size of the state’s third largest park, Wilderness State Park in Emmet County. Visitors have a wealth of natural wonders to discover, from its stunning waterfalls and lush forests to its diverse wildlife and scenic trails. This expansive park offers countless opportunities for outdoor adventures and exploration, ensuring a memorable experience for all who visit.
2. Tahquamenon can be enjoyed year-round!
There are no off-seasons for the Tahquamenon Falls State Park. In fact, a lot of adventurers prefer to see this natural wonder in the winter. Grab your jacket, snow pants, and snowshoes and explore the terrain. State park workers even supply a lantern-lit snowshoe path throughout the winter.
3. There Are Actually 2 Waterfalls
Located about 4 miles downstream from the park’s famous Upper Falls, the Lower Falls can be a hidden gem of the park. A series of five distinct cascades are separated by small, rocky outcroppings, creating a picturesque series of waterfalls that drop about 15 to 20 feet in height.
The Lower Falls area offers a range of viewing options, including several observation platforms and the opportunity to take a short boat ride to get up close to the cascades. The gentle roar of the water, combined with the tranquil surroundings, makes the Lower Falls a serene and enchanting spot within the park.
Read on to learn how to get an even better view of the Lower Falls.
4. You Can Walk Across the Lower Falls
You might have explored the Upper and Lower Falls, but did you know you can now walk across the Lower Falls to the islands nestled in the middle of the river? This new adventure, made possible by the bridge installed in 2022, offers a unique opportunity to get up close to the Lower Tahquamenon Falls and even dip your toes in the refreshing river. Once on the island, you’ll find a trail that meanders through scenic viewpoints, providing ample opportunities to take in the stunning surroundings from new angles.
5. It’s the 2nd Most Voluminous Waterfall in the Eastern US
Upper Tahquamenon Falls is 200 feet across with a drop of almost 50 feet. In the peak of Spring runoff, over 50,000 gallons of water rush over the brink per second. This makes it the second most voluminous waterfall east of the Mississippi River in the United States, behind only Niagara Falls! The average flow during the year is closer to 7,000 gallons per second. Now that’s a lot of water!
6. Locals Call it “Root Beer Falls”
Locals affectionately refer to Tahquamenon Falls as the “Root Beer Falls” due to its distinctive appearance. The name comes from the waterfall’s rich, brown hue and the frothy, white foam that forms as the water cascades 48 feet down, resembling the creamy froth of a root beer. This unique color is not a cause for concern; it results from tannins leaching from the cedar swamps at the river’s source, giving the water its characteristic deep amber shade.
7. There are plenty of easy options to view the falls
- Upper Falls Viewing Platforms: The primary viewing area for the Upper Falls provides a great view but there are multiple observation platforms and trails just around the corner that offer panoramic views of the falls and its dramatic 50-foot drop. These platforms are accessible and allow for stunning photographs and close-up views of the powerful cascades.
- Lower Falls Bridge: The bridge over the Lower Falls is a must-visit. It spans the river and provides a unique perspective of the five distinct cascades. From here, you can also access the islands in the middle of the river for an even closer view of the falls and the surrounding scenery.
- Trail to the Lower Falls: The hiking trails leading to the Lower Falls offer various scenic viewpoints. The trail provides multiple opportunities to capture different angles of the falls and experience the serene beauty of the area.
- Scenic Overlook on the North Country Trail: This trail features a designated overlook point that offers a sweeping view of the Upper Falls and the surrounding landscape. It’s a bit of a hike but rewards visitors with an expansive and unobstructed view.
While these facts are interesting, the best way to truly appreciate the falls is to visit Tahquamenon Falls State Park in person! When you make your way to Paradise, Michigan, to see the falls, be sure to share your amazing photos using the hashtag #ilovethesoo on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, TikTok and Twitter. We’d love to see your experiences and enjoy your snapshots too!
