After having a quick lunch at Hardee's, we headed to Tahquamenon Falls. We only visited the Upper Falls. Last year, there was a trail that allowed you to get much closer to the waterfall, but it was closed for construction this year, so we could only admire it from a distance. It didn't feel as impressive as it did last year.
Tahquamenon Falls (Upper)
2 photos
Leaflet © OpenStreetMap
15m
Waterfall height
Plan your visit to Tahquamenon Falls (Upper)
Please verify on the official website before you go
Why is Tahquamenon Falls (Upper) famous?
Upper Tahquamenon Falls is one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River, spanning nearly 61 meters (200 feet) wide with a distinctive amber color from tannins leached from cedar swamps upstream. The falls was featured in the poem 'The Song of Hiawatha' by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and is among Michigan's most visited natural attractions.
Can you swim at Tahquamenon Falls (Upper)?
No. Swimming is not permitted at Upper Tahquamenon Falls due to strong currents and dangerous conditions. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Are dogs allowed at Tahquamenon Falls (Upper)?
Dogs allowed on-leash on trails and viewing areas. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is Tahquamenon Falls (Upper) free? Do you need a permit?
Michigan Recreation Passport required ($12 daily or $34 annual for Michigan residents; $9 daily or $34 annual for non-residents as of recent info). Please verify on the official website before you go.
Is there parking at Tahquamenon Falls (Upper)?
Yes, there is a large paved parking area at Upper Falls. Michigan Recreation Passport required for entry (vehicle permit). Short walk from parking to viewing platforms. Please verify on the official website before you go.
How long is the hike to Tahquamenon Falls (Upper)?
About 0.4 km / 0.25 mi return on paved walkway from the parking area to the main viewing platform and overlook deck. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Tahquamenon Falls (Upper) hike difficulty
Easy. Paved, wheelchair-accessible trail with minimal elevation change; stairs lead to lower viewing platforms for closer views. Please verify on the official website before you go.
When is the best time to visit Tahquamenon Falls (Upper)?
Spring (April–May) for peak flow from snowmelt, or fall (September–October) for stunning autumn foliage. Summer offers warm weather but lower flow. Please verify on the official website before you go.
Route and trail notes for Tahquamenon Falls (Upper)
From the parking lot, follow the paved path toward the sound of the falls. The trail leads to multiple viewing platforms offering different perspectives of the falls. A stairway descends 94 steps to a lower observation deck for close-up views. The path loops back to the parking area past a concession building and gift shop.
Tahquamenon Falls (Upper) official website
Attractions near Tahquamenon Falls (Upper)
- •Lower Tahquamenon Falls – series of smaller cascades 6.4 km downstream, popular for kayaking
- •Whitefish Point – historic lighthouse and Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum, 32 km north
- •Paradise – small town 16 km north with dining and lodging near the park entrance
- •Oswald's Bear Ranch – black bear sanctuary about 16 km from the falls
- •Tahquamenon River – scenic canoeing and kayaking opportunities through wilderness
Safety information
Waterfalls can be unforgiving. Read these before you go — and please, use your judgement on the day.
Full safety guide →Questions & answers
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