Tahquamenon Falls State Park is situated right off Highway 123 in the UP - Upper Peninsula of Michigan. As a sign stated in the park which I found humorous..."Tahquamenon rhymes with phenomenon"! Hehehe.
There are two sections to Tahquamenon Falls SP. The Upper Falls and the Lower Falls. When driving from west to east you'll first confront the Lower Falls portion. There's a pathway to walk around the Lower Falls, but honestly, I found the falls to be nonexistent and boring. They were disappointing. But...the walkaway around the Lower Falls was at least pleasant...and in fact I believe you can connect from the Lower Falls to the Upper Falls in one giant loop around the park.
For myself, after spending 1 hour at the Lower Falls where I barely took any photos or found inspiration from...I then returned to my car and drove 3 miles to arrive at the much more scenic and worthwhile Upper Falls.
Btw...back at the Lower Falls...they do have the cool park store called Tahquamenon Treasures where you can purchase souvenirs and gifts including snacks and refreshments. I liked the Tahquamenon Treasures store as it gave me an opportunity to pick up any items I may have been missing along my journey, which was ultimately going towards Copper Harbor, MI and Isle Royale National Park.
I luckily discovered Tahquamenon Falls SP randomly on a whim. There were signs along Highway 123 and the park/falls could not be missed.
It's a $9 fee for out of state visitors like myself to come here for the day, walk around and explore. Park hours are 6am - 10pm.
The Upper Falls were nice. There is a short walk to the Brink Viewing Platform looking down over the falls. This vista point is worthy of good picture moments. Interestingly...the waters of the Upper Falls had a brownish and gray tone to them...as if they appeared dirty, but I'm sure that's not the case...it must just be the sediments rubbing off from the bottom of the river.
Now...there is a 2nd viewpoint section to the Upper Falls which are also a brief walk away from the Brink Observation Deck. This setting is from the Gorge Viewing Platform which displays the Upper Falls set in the background.
So basically, you have 2 chances to admire the Upper Falls...one from the Brink Viewing Area and the other from the Gorge Viewing Area. Both overlook spots I'd recommend, and they both triumph any perspective you'll confront from the Lower Falls section.
Some more details...
When I visited back in late May of 2021 it wasn't particularly busy, and I had most areas to myself. Granted I did visit during the week on a mostly overcast and brisk day.
The 2nd viewpoint of the Upper Falls is accessed by walking down about 150 steps along a pedestrian boardwalk. It's not difficult to arrive at other than when trekking back up the steps, you may be breathing heavy.
The Upper Falls really magnify what makes Tahquamenon Falls special. I appreciated spending a majority of my afternoon at the Upper Falls.
I'd consider the park a hidden gem. Upon researching and setting up my itinerary throughout the UP of Michigan...I never even stumbled upon Tahquamenon Falls SP. I didn't even know it existed prior to seeing signs for it while driving.
After enjoying the great outdoors here, I actually had dinner right inside the park at the Tahquamenon Falls Brewery and Pub! This restaurant got busy quickly because there's nowhere else to really have a quality home cooked meal in this secluded part of the UP.
I fortunately arrived early enough and had a terrific salad and ravioli dinner. This brewery and pub were like an old-fashioned wooden lodge...cozy and comforting. I highly suggest eating here after enjoying the activities at the Upper Falls.
Lastly, you can camp out here for the evening! This part of the UP is so remote and primitive I happily set up my tent for the night and loved every aspect and amenity offered. It was $25 to pitch my tent + $9 for the entry day fee = $36 - a good deal in my opinion.
I had my own fire pit and purchased campfire wood for $5 which they sold on the grounds. Each site had a picnic table, Amp Power for charging electronics, a shower house and terrific cell phone reception.
There are two campgrounds at the park, but I chose to stay at the one near the Upper Falls and the restaurant out of pure convenience.
The woodsy and forestry setting was amazing for enjoying the great outdoors. I had a restful night's sleep and felt reinvigorated to continue towards my next landmark attraction being Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore the following day.
Other than the Lower Falls section being a letdown...the Treasures Gift Store, the Upper Waterfall, the Brewery and Pub and the Campground make Tahquamenon Falls an excellent under the radar state park. I reflect fondly upon my memorable experience here during my time spent within the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. read more