On our road trip around the Great Lakes from Philly, we made a stop at this incredible spot -- and don't ask me to pronounce the name! Located inside Palms Book State Park, this natural spring was one of the most unique and beautiful places we visited. The water is crystal clear all the way to the bottom, and you can easily see fish swimming below. You hop onto a self-operated raft that you pull across the water to the middle of the spring, where there's an opening in the center to look straight down. It gives you a perfect view of the vibrant underwater world -- it's honestly mesmerizing. It's a quick stop, but totally worth it. And the best part? It's dog-friendly! Definitely add this to your list if you're exploring the Upper Peninsula. read more

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This is such a unique place. I'm so glad we stopped. We were on a road trip from Mackinaw City to Milwaukee and wanted to break up the trip a bit so we saw this diversion and decided to check it out. Clear blue water, bubbling sand, never ending springs, a tow boat, and lots of trout are the wonders to see. Everyone gets on the boat and someone (well a few people over the course of the trip) step up to the wheel to tow the boat across the water. The water is mesmerizing. I couldn't take my eyes off the water. Many people can fit on the boat so the wait is not too long. A day pass is $11. Definitely make this stop if you are in the area. read more

Kitch-iti-Kipi - Lakes Near Me - Manistique, Michigan

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So beautiful! We went early around 9 am and were the only ones there. The boat is very easy to understand and maneuver and the water is so clear. There were so many trout swimming past the middle of the boat and was amazing to see. We headed to the gift shop after and grabbed a few special things! The lady at the front cashier was extremely welcoming and recommended some places to visit nearby! read more

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What a cool little place. We stopped in while on the UP and travelling from Munising to Fayette. The guest propelled raft that took us all across the spring was pet friendly which was a plus. Definitely worth a quick stop if you're in the area! read more

Kitch-iti-Kipi - V - Lakes Near Me - Manistique, Michigan

Michigan's largest freshwater spring! Kitch-iti-Kipi is certainly one of Michigan's tourist destinations, maybe not in the top echelon, but still quite up there and I can't believe it has personally taken me 30 years of living in Michigan to finally go and visit it because honestly this spring is C O O L!!!!! Palms Book State Park where Kitch-iti-Kipi is located is free to enter, as long as you have your recreation passport (or you can pay a small fee for a day/year pass at the gate). The parking lot is pretty big and we came in the middle of the day and didn't have an issue parking. I think there are tons of people coming and going at any given time as well so the turnover rate is pretty good so if need be just circle the parking lot a bit. We then follow the signs to Kitch-iti-Kipi, which is not far at all away from the parking lot. There will probably be a line if you're coming on a decent weather day in the summer. It seems as though the raft that takes you out on Kitch-iti-Kipi from one end to the other and back is about a 15 minute round trip, allotting an additional 5 minutes to get people off and on. The raft looks like it holds around 30-40 people as well. The park rangers are very good at keeping you informed as you stand in line about how many 20-minute increments you'll be waiting We ended up waiting about 40 minutes as there were 2 cycles in front of us and we got onto the raft on the 3rd cycle. The wait is well worth it and I think it still would've been worth it if it had been an even longer wait! Kitch-iti-Kipi is truly a sight to behold. It's so unique, the water is so blue/aqua and CLEAR, and it's just magnificent and peaceful. I am so curious to experience Kitch-iti-Kipi in the winter as it remains a steady 40 degrees all year round so won't freeze over. How beautiful this blue spring would look with all the snow covered trees all around it! In the middle of the raft, there is an opening so you can look straight down below in the shade at the fish swimming and living their best lives in Kitch-iti-Kipi. Then the perimeter all around the raft is also where you can look over and see the water and surrounding trees move on by. It's peaceful and stunning and I highly recommend this "tourist destination" to everyone - Michiganders and non-Michiganders alike. Kitch-iti-Kipi is truly a sight to behold! read more

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So beautiful, takes about 20 minutes or so but well worth it. If you love fish and being around water this place is for you. read more

Kitch-iti-Kipi - Lakes Near Me - Manistique, Michigan

This was a great spot for a day trip. Have a picnic on the grounds, learn about the spring, enjoy the views from the raft, and explore the shop! We only spent a short time here but the views alone were worth it! It wasn't super busy on a Friday afternoon, but I've heard it gets busy and lines for the raft are long later in the day. read more

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Absolutely the highlight of our trip going through the upper peninsula! Although I had a huge list of places that I wanted to hike to see waterfalls, unfortunately we were not able to because of how much it was raining. The rain finally cleared just a little bit and so we were able to make a stop over here because I really wanted to see the turquoise water. I had called on the phone to ask when the tour was, but a man on the phone told me that we just go on the raft and go by ourselves, which was great news. This meant that there wasn't a certain time that we had to get there by or do things by. The raft was easy to move by my children, and with a little help of course, but we were able to go out into the beautiful turquoise water and looked down below and see the logs and fish. We did pay the state fine where we went in but I did see people who drove in and did not pay the State fine since no one was there, lthough they do have envelopes that you can put money in and put it in the Box. There were so many mosquitoes outside but we can't complain about. There's a little gift shop on site that I thought was cute and they also have bathrooms near by. This would be a great stop for ages from children to the elderly. Just be sure you have Mosquito spray and have fun! read more

Kitch-iti-Kipi is the name of the freshwater spring located in Palms Brook State Park. Nate and were on a camping trip with friends nearby at Camp Seven Lake over the summer, so we made the quick drive one morning to check it out. I'd been years ago as a kid, so it was fun to relive the experience as an adult. You'll need a recreation pass to enter the park which is $9 for the day if you're from out of state. We arrived around 10 am or so and there was already a line forming to get on the raft. The raft is a covered "boat" that is pulled along a cable and fully self-operated. Usually a kid ends up manning the wheel as I don't think there is a designated employee that does this. It takes about 15 minutes total to get across and back and it's a very slow moving, smooth ride. The raft can hold about 20 people or so. The bottom is open in the middle so you can see down into the spring, which is about 45 feet deep with water rushing in at 10,000 gallons per minute! The water is super clear with a blue-green tint and you can see lots of big fish. It was a fun, relaxing experience that I definitely recommend to anyone traveling nearby! The souvenir shop and restroom facilities make this a great stop on your UP trip. read more

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What a gorgeous natural find! Free! Handicap accessible! Flush toilets! If you're anywhere near this place you have to, have to, have to stop and see it with your own eyes! read more

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Wow this place was deep in the blue. A friend recommended this place and we made time to visit this place in our drive back. And we are happy that we made time. There is a history for this place and this is a natural greaser. The water are clean and there are greasers underneath where you can watch water boiling and rushing out of pockets. They have a nice self riding boat and look at the clear water. It was like mirror of heaven. read more

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Kitch-iti-kipi is perfect, period. I could go on and on about it's beauty, but words are inadequate. This is a place you must visit to understand and appreciate it. read more

This was a highlight of our trip!!! The water is so turquoise it's insane! Such a cool spot to check out. Definitely make the trip if you can, it's well worth it. read more

Kitch-iti-Kipi - Lakes Near Me - Manistique, Michigan

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WOW !! This place is one of the most beautiful and amazing sites in Michigan!! Every time I'm up in the UP I always have to stop at kitch-iti-Kipi . Enjoy the natural springs and all the fish swimming below the crystal clear water . 10/10 would recommend. read more

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This is a one of a type location, the sheer volume of the spring, and the clarity of the water is amazing. You will absolutely not regret, stopping and taking a little time off to see this wonderful natural phenomena. read more

Go on a chilly April day and no lines and no fee! Absolutely amazing to see. Kids like "steering" the wheel. read more

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One of the most fascinating things I have ever seen in the Midwest. Don't skip this pit stop on your way to Pictured Rocks! During covid, the lines were extra long to get onto the boat, which is basically the only attraction here. But it was well worth it. Pictures or words can't describe the natural phenomenon - you'll have to see for yourself. Beware, although the boat is free, you will need to pay for a day pass when entering the parking lot. Although, if you're visiting other Michigan national parks, this ticket can be used. read more

Kitch-iti-Kipi - Viewing hole in the center of the boat. Completely clear 40 ft down! - Lakes Near Me - Manistique, Michigan

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A must see if passing through or in the area. I went first thing in the morning which let me have the place to myself. Loved It! Such a neat and beautiful place. You hop on a raft and can go back and forth across the water. The best part is that the water is clear so you can see trees, fish and more. Beautiful scenery and a must do! read more

Beautiful spring- definitely have to visit! There was an 18$ fee if you don't have a state park pass and they take CASH ONLY! There is an ATM at a nearby store in case. The boat holds about 35/40 ish people and the ride for each group is just down and back about 8 minutes i'd say. The line doesn't take long to get through and it's definitely worth the wait. I had no issue with bugs at all. Great gift shop and many restrooms. read more

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A must see if you're visiting the U.P. Sometimes the line for the raft gets quite long, it's best to visit mid week and early! read more

The springs are some of the most beautiful springs I have ever seen. I would definitely recommend going to visit this place if you're in the UP. read more

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Awesome place. The walk is short and the view is amazing. Look down a 45ft deep body of water and watch high pressure water move the bed around. It kind of looks like the water is boiling. The colors are fantastic and there are lots of fish. I've never seen anything like it before. You can ride a wooden boat that is open in the center (it's safe, even for kids) for free and get a better look. This is worth the stop. Theres a shop in the parking lot that has ice cream and clothes. read more

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This place is amazing!! Highly recommended!! We didn't think it would look as crystal blue as the photos showed and we were shocked to see that the views and water were stunning. Exactly like the photo. It's also cute because you get to pull yourself across on the water in a little boat trolley and you can stay out on the water as long as you'd like. It was fall and it was not very crowded at all--great pandemic activity and we will definitely be back post pandemic! read more

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Don't think, just get yourself over here! This is a magical spot tucked up here in the UP that will leave you feeling amazed and a bit like you stepped into a portal to another dimension. The color of the water alone is mind-blowing, and then you step onto the little self-propelled pontoon and look through the viewing area in the center - otherworldly is the only way to describe it. You'll find yourself wanting to jump in and see where in the heck all those bubbles are coming from! It's really a lovely experience, and one that you'll not find anywhere else: a bit of magic waiting just for you. read more

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100% recommend getting up early to see this one without the extra people and noise. It's so aww inspiring you want to be able to soak it in the way nature intended. read more

Kitch-iti-Kipi - Lakes Near Me - Manistique, Michigan

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The water is like glass. There are fish for days, big fish swimming around below. It is truly a sight to see. I love northern country and this place was no less inspirational. It is as serene as it comes and we enjoyed every bit of soaking up another sight. It was also was the last stop of our U.P. tour. This was donated land from long ago who's only stipulation to giving to the state was to let people on the land to see the spectacular landscape they have to offer. Pictures do this no justice. Just stop by you won't be dissapointed. read more

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10/10 recommend going. The summer is obviously a nicer time to go but it's still breath taking in the winter. Super cool place to visit

This is a must see!! Amazing!! The water is so clear you can see the fishes shadows. Hight recommend!! read more

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Stunning. That is the only word to describe this little slice of heaven. Appropriately enough it's original name was Mirror of Heaven, and after visiting I can see why. Turquoise clear water you can see through to the bottom, and surrounded by untouched landscaping. The coolest part is the raft that is self operating and has a glass bottom to see in the natural spring as you glide along. There is even a nice gift shop on site with clean bathrooms -not out houses. This is an absolute must see place, I am so glad I did! read more

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Such a cool place!! I'll be honest, I was underwhelmed when people told me what Kitch-iti-kipi was. But I'm so glad I took their word for it and came to see it myself! The water really is SO clear. There isn't really any seaweed or plants or anything in there, so you can see everything! Watching the huge fish swim around and the spring bubble up at the bottom was so cool. If you can make over here, definitely do it! P.S. If you don't have a recreation passport, they have envelopes at the entrance that you fill out and include cash or a check inside, then drop into a container. They have tear-off receipts on them, which was something we had been concerned about because we'll be going to more state parks on this trip. read more

A must see if you are in the area and like nature or cool things. At the bottom of the 45 foot deep pond? Lake? You can see the water coming up. It moves the sand at the bottom and makes cool shapes. read more

Kitch-iti-Kipi - Lakes Near Me - Manistique, Michigan

There is a sign at the parking lot entrance where they check or charge for your recreation passport (you can park on the street just outside to not have to pay), where they suggest wearing a mask. After that point, there isn't much being done here to prevent the spread of Covid. When you get to the area to line up for the attraction, there is not distancing or mask-wearing being enforced. We were behind a family not wearing masks so stood way back but the people behind us who were wearing masks, were basically right on top of us. Looking at the rest of the people in the line, it was a lot more of the same. The line moves incredibly slowly (most likely due to reduced capacity on the platform) and this adds to the exposure as you're standing with a crowd in line as you wait to go in. It would be simple to enforce distancing here if they placed 6 foot markers on the ground and had staff or signage instructing people as they wait in line to WEAR THEIR MASKS and STAND ON THE MARKERS. Instead, the line as you wait for the attraction is ripe for covid exposure. We didn't wait to get on the platform as I don't want to get sick and stay in the crowded line any longer but I could see it from the line and there were people on there not distancing and not wearing masks. As a part of the MI state park I would think they'd be more responsible trying to prevent an outbreak from occurring here. read more

We are loving the UP! Manistique, Michigan is such a cute town & the Boardwalk along Lake Michigan is fun & just a beautiful area!! We ate at a daring place in town called Cedar St Cafe!! It was yummy! Today we went to Kitch iti Kipi "Big Springs" located within the Palms Book State Park! The water was so clear & huge brown & Lake trouts in it. It was fun to take a raft on a pulley system across the Springs & watch the springs bubble up from below!! Just a gorgeous area!! We are blessed to live in such a beautiful Country! read more

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If you've never been here and you're driving north to the UP take a quick stop here. It's a fascinating spring to see. The trees and water color is amazing. There is a gift shop with ice cream and also clean restrooms. Only con is you have to pay to get into the park if you don't have a park pass. Other than that it's worth a stop to see this beautiful landmark read more

Kitch-iti-Kipi - Whoa - Lakes Near Me - Manistique, Michigan

Kitch-iti-kipi (big spring) is a wonderful tourist spot. It starts with the small two lane road that takes you down a Beautiful forest route. Kitch-iti-kipi is a state park so you do have to pay to get in or if you have a Michigan state park pass. The parking is alright and pretty easy to get around. It's a great place to have a picnic if there isn't any bugs. They also have outdoor bathrooms which sometimes gets full of bugs, that's typical. The gift shop has everything and also ice cream! One of the things that I look for all the time are the squished penny machines which big Spring has one. Big spring is a great way to explore the great outdoors of Michigan. You can take a ride on the covered raft that takes you across and back. You can actually operate it to, by turning the wheel that's connected to a wire. If you are ever in upper Michigan along Lake Michigan take a little time and stop here to view something that some people have never seen before. read more

Kitch-iti-Kipi - Great photo of clear water - Lakes Near Me - Manistique, Michigan

Kitch-iti-kipi is Michigan's largest natural freshwater spring. The name means big cold water and is sometimes referred to as The Big Spring. Its original name was the "Mirror of Heaven" given to it by the early Native Americans. Stopped on our way out of Indian Lake State Park. Enjoyed the "ferry" and the view. read more

Kitch-iti-Kipi - Kitch-iti-kipi is Michigan's largest natural freshwater spring. It's definitely worth stopping ( Palms Book State Park). - Lakes Near Me - Manistique, Michigan

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We camped at Indian Lake and came here on four occasions since it was nearby. On the weekdays, we spent probably 15 minutes there, as it was an easy on-and-off for the raft. It seemed to be one of those places that people visit just to say they went there. On Saturday, the line to get on the raft was stretched nearly to the entrance. The parking lot was a nightmare. The raft only holds around 20 people, and it will be elbow-to-elbow to try to take a few pictures in these circumstances. When it's not busy, it was nice. The first time we went on the raft on a Tuesday, there was maybe 10 people. There are tons of photo opportunities, and the water is clear as can be. Looking at the fish swimming below, it was like looking into an aquarium. The small gift shop was nice too, and we got a magnet for $4 and a coffee mug for $10. read more

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It's just amazing experience. You have to visit this place if you're in the upper peninsula. Just peaceful and beautiful.

Love this place! Went as a kid and went back as an adult and it had the rare trait of being just as impressive both times. The water is gorgeous and the raft is a unique experience. I would recommend for any age. It's beautifully maintained. read more

We were having lunch a long way away, when a fellow diner told us about this place. If it weren't for him, we would have missed it, so we're grateful for the tip. It was about 40 miles out of our way and totally worth it. $9 per car for an out of state pass, then you walk along a path through the beautiful woods to a large wooden raft with a glass bottom. The raft is on a pulley that takes you out to the center of the crystal clear emerald green pond. You will see the bubbling sand of a natural spring that releases 10 thousand gallons of water per minute! You will also see the biggest brown trout of your life. Some up to 3 feet long! The history of this sacred Native American healing site is something you'll want to listen closely too. Keep an eye out for the maiden's spirit, in her white buckskin and shiny braids. She is said to surprise you in the forest. So glad we were able to visit Kitchitikipi! read more