17 Best Things To Do at Tahquamenon Falls
2026 Local Guide
Planning a trip to Tahquamenon Falls and wondering what to do there?
As a Michigan native, I have explored Tahquamenon Falls State Park across every season. Summer brings rowboats and trail adventures. Fall lights the hemlock forests in amber and gold. Winter turns the park into a snow-covered world with almost no crowds. In this guide I will walk you through 17 verified activities at Tahquamenon Falls, with insider tips and accessibility details you will not find elsewhere.
Whether you are planning a quick day trip or a multi-day camping adventure, this is everything you need to make the most of your visit.
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Quick Facts: Tahquamenon Falls State Park
| Location | Between Newberry and Paradise, MI (Eastern Upper Peninsula) |
| Upper Falls Size | 200 feet wide, ~50-foot drop |
| Peak Flow | Up to 50,000 gallons per second |
| Park Size | ~50,000 acres (Michigan’s 2nd largest state park) |
| Entry Fee | $11/day non-resident; $15/year MI resident (2026 rates) |
| Accessibility | Free track chair & wheelchair loan at Fact Shack: (906) 492-3415 |
| Open | Year-round |
| Address (Upper Falls) | 41382 W M-123, Paradise, MI 49768 |
| Park Phone | (906) 492-3415 |
17 Things To Do at Tahquamenon Falls
1. See the Upper Tahquamenon Falls
The Upper Falls is the crown jewel of the park. At 200 feet wide with a 50-foot drop, it is one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi. The water’s distinctive amber color comes from tannins leached from the cedar and hemlock swamps upstream. That warm brown water churns into white foam at the base, which is why the falls earned the nickname “Root Beer Falls.”
Getting there: From the parking area, follow the paved path to multiple viewing platforms above the falls. Three viewing platforms remain open year-round.
■■ 2026 Construction Update: A new 900-foot ADA-accessible boardwalk with six switchbacks is under construction, replacing the old staircase to the brink of the falls. Construction began October 2024 and is expected to be complete in spring 2026. All three viewing platforms above the falls remain open throughout construction. The Brewery and Pub is also open as usual.
■ Accessibility: The main path to the viewing platforms is paved and ADA-accessible. A free track chair — an off-road motorized wheelchair that handles trails, snow, sand, and up to 8 inches of water — is available at the Fact Shack near the parking area. Standard wheelchairs are also available at no cost. First-come or reserve at (906) 492-3415.
2. Explore the Lower Tahquamenon Falls
Four miles downstream, the Lower Falls offer a different experience from the Upper Falls — and many visitors find them more memorable. Instead of one powerful cascade, you get five smaller waterfalls wrapping around a peaceful island. The Lower Falls draw fewer visitors, making them the better choice if you prefer a quiet, unhurried experience with nature.
A half-mile accessible boardwalk leads to multiple vantage points. The Ronald A. Olson Island Bridge, opened in 2022, makes the island easy to reach on foot.
Pro tip: Visit the Lower Falls first, then make your way to the Upper Falls. Saving the dramatic Upper Falls for last gives your day an unforgettable finish.
■ Accessibility: The Lower Falls boardwalk and island bridge are accessible for most mobility levels. The path from the parking lot to the viewing area is approximately 0.4 miles on a flat surface.
3. Rent a Rowboat at the Lower Falls
Renting a rowboat at the Lower Falls is one of the most memorable experiences the park offers. Don your lifejacket, grab your paddle, and row out to the small island in the center of the falls. From the island, a short perimeter trail gives you close-up views of the water on all sides. If you fish, bring your gear — the Tahquamenon River holds brown trout, muskie, and northern pike.
- Where: Lower Tahquamenon Falls Café & Gift Shop
- Season: Memorial Day weekend through mid-October (conditions permitting)
- Cost: $25/hour up to 4 hours; daily rate applies after that
- Reservations: Not required
4. Hike the River Trail Between the Falls
The 4-mile River Trail connecting the Upper and Lower Falls is the most dramatic hike in the park. It runs along the Tahquamenon River through old-growth hemlock and yellow birch forest, with multiple river overlooks along the way. Expect exposed roots, hills, and mud after rain. Bring water and bug spray.
Smart strategy: Use the Hunter Shuttle Service to turn it into a one-way hike. Park at the Lower Falls, ride the shuttle to the Upper Falls, and hike back — enjoying the views without doubling the mileage.
Hunter Shuttle: Noon–8pm daily through Labor Day weekend. Weekend-only service in spring and fall. Call or text 906-291-3422.
Cost: $20 for the first rider, $5 for each additional person or pet.
■■ Seasonal note: The River Trail is closed in winter due to unsafe conditions and reopens in mid-May. Call the park at (906) 492-3415 to confirm current conditions before visiting.
5. Explore the Other Tahquamenon Trails
With over 35 miles of trails, Tahquamenon Falls State Park is a hiker’s paradise well beyond the River Trail:
Upper Falls Loop (1.4 miles | Easy | ADA-accessible) — A short paved loop with excellent views of the Upper Falls. The connected Nature Trail (half a mile) is stroller- and wheelchair-friendly and wonderful for birding in summer.
Giant Pines Loop (3.8 miles | Moderate) — Winds through hemlock forest past two of Michigan’s largest white pine trees, both dating to the 1800s. This trail doubles as a groomed cross-country ski route in winter.
Clark Lake Loop (5.6 miles | Moderate) — A quieter route through pine forest, mossy lowlands, and blueberry patches, with views of Clark Lake. It connects to the Wilderness Loop for a longer adventure.
Wilderness Loop (7.4 miles | Challenging) — A primitive trail through old-growth hemlock, pine ridges, and peatlands. Best for experienced hikers with proper gear and a full day.
6. Swim at the Lower Falls
On a warm summer day, wading at the Lower Falls is pure Michigan magic. Wade in from the riverbank, float in the gentle current, or step behind one of the smaller cascades. Water shoes are a must — the rocks are slippery.
Important: Swimming and wading are prohibited near the Upper Falls due to dangerous currents. Never enter the water at the Upper Falls.
7. Take the Hunter Shuttle for a One-Way Hike
The Hunter Shuttle turns a challenging out-and-back into a one-way adventure. Park at the Lower Falls, ride the shuttle to the Upper Falls, and hike the River Trail back at your own pace. The shuttle accepts dogs. Look for the large green flag at the parking lot. No reservation required.
Season: Memorial Day through Labor Day daily; spring and fall weekends only
Cost: $20 first rider, $5 each additional person or pet
Contact: Call or text 906-291-3422
8. Kayak or Canoe the Tahquamenon River
The Tahquamenon River offers 17 miles of paddling between the Lower Falls and the Rivermouth area. The current is calm enough for beginners. Wildlife sightings are a highlight — bald eagles, otters, and moose are all part of the river landscape.
- The Woods on M-123 between Newberry and Paradise: canoe and kayak rentals with shuttle service. Call ahead at (906) 203-7624
- Kayak rentals also available at the Rivermouth Campground office
- Bring your own and launch at the Lower Falls day-use area carry-in site
9. Go Fishing
The Tahquamenon River is exceptional fishing territory. Brown trout, walleye, muskellunge, northern pike, and smallmouth bass are all present. Three inland lakes within the park — Betsy Lake, Clark Lake, and Sheephead Lake — offer northern pike, yellow perch, and winter ice fishing.
Accessible shore fishing is available at the Rivermouth Pines Campground. A Michigan fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older. Purchase online through the Michigan DNR website.
10. Enjoy Winter Sports
Tahquamenon Falls in winter is one of Michigan’s most underrated experiences. The Upper Falls flows all winter long. The contrast of amber water against fresh snow is breathtaking. The Lower Falls freeze over by January.
- Snowshoeing on 9 miles of marked trails in the Upper and Lower Falls areas
- Cross-country skiing on 4 miles of groomed trails including the Giant Pines Loop and the 1-mile Lantern Loop
- Snowmobiling on Trail 45 (Charcoal Grade Trail), which connects to the M-123 Scenic Byway
- Backcountry skiing throughout the park
Special winter events: Guided snowshoe hikes led by park naturalists; lantern-lit skiing and snowshoeing every Saturday in February along the 1-mile Lantern Loop lit by 70 kerosene lanterns. Snowshoe use is free during guided hike events.
11. Camp Inside the Park
Camping at Tahquamenon is one of the best ways to experience the park. Waking up to the sound of the river and stargazing from your site at night are rewards no day trip can match.
Lower Falls Modern Campground and Rivermouth Modern Campground both offer electric hookups, modern restrooms, and showers. The Rivermouth Campground sits along the Tahquamenon River with beautiful sunset views — a favorite for kayakers and anglers.
Dispersed/rustic camping is available along the North Country Trail with latrines, fire rings, and bear bag access.
■ Accessibility: Call the park for current accessible campsite availability: (906) 492-3415.
Where to Stay Near Tahquamenon Falls
■■■ Most Unique — DNR Guest Lodge (Inside the Park)
The best-kept secret at Tahquamenon Falls. This rustic off-grid lodge sits inside the state park and sleeps up to 8 people. It has a full kitchen, two bathrooms, a dining table for 10, and snowshoe rentals are included in winter — all for around $120/night. No cell service, no TV, no internet. Just wilderness right outside your door.
Book: michigan.gov/dnr or call (906) 492-3415
■■ Best Cabin Experience — Paradise Shores Cabins
A 12-cabin log resort perched on a bluff overlooking Whitefish Bay with 270 feet of sandy Lake Superior shoreline. Each cabin has a full kitchen, its own fire pit, a picnic table, and a grill. Lakefront cabins add a wood-burning stone fireplace. A short drive to both falls, and walkable to Paradise shops and restaurants. No pets. Open year-round.
Call: (906) 492-3320 | paradiseshorescabins.com
■■■ Best for Families — Tahquamenon Suites Lodging
The top-rated lodging in Paradise. Suites have queen beds, separate living areas, a full kitchen with all cookware, sleeper sofas, air conditioning, and WiFi. Contactless check-in means no waiting at a front desk after a long day on the trails. About 10 minutes from the park entrance. Pet fee applies.
Book: expedia.com — Search “Tahquamenon Suites Lodging”
■■ Best Hotel — Magnuson Grand Hotel Lakefront Paradise
The top-rated hotel in Paradise, sitting right on Whitefish Bay. Some rooms have private balconies overlooking Lake Superior. Amenities include an indoor heated pool, sauna, hot tub, and a complimentary hot breakfast each morning. A well-located base for exploring the park.
Book: tripadvisor.com — Search “Magnuson Grand Hotel Lakefront Paradise”
12. Go Birding
Over 300 bird species have been documented in Tahquamenon Falls State Park. The park sits along a major migration corridor — birds funnel down from Canada through Whitefish Point each spring and fall, passing through the park on both legs of the journey.
Bald eagles, pileated woodpeckers, and sandhill cranes are among the most watched species. Moose appear in the wet areas along M-123 between Paradise and the Lower Falls, most often at dawn and dusk.
13. Wildlife Photography
Tahquamenon’s old-growth hemlock forest, peatland, and river corridor make it one of Michigan’s best destinations for wildlife photography. Black bears, white-tailed deer, foxes, otters, and bald eagles are present throughout the year. In fall, the amber water set against blazing foliage creates scenes unlike anything else in the Midwest.
14. Go Geocaching
Add a treasure-hunt element to your visit by finding the active Tahquamenon geocache. Sign the logbook, swap a trinket, and carry on with your adventure. A wonderful activity for families with kids.
Find it at geocaching.com — search “Tahquamenon Falls.”
15. Eat at Tahquamenon Falls Brewery & Pub
After a day outdoors, the Tahquamenon Falls Brewery & Pub is a must. It is the only brewpub inside a Michigan state park, built in the style of the 19th-century logging camps that once defined this region.
The menu features UP pasties with coleslaw and gravy, along with locally caught whitefish and bison burgers. A kids’ menu is available. Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating area.
Location: 24019 Upper Falls Drive, Paradise, MI 49768 | Phone: (906) 492-3300
Hours: 7 days a week, 11am–8:30pm | Closed late March through late April
16. Browse the Camp 33 Gift Shop
Next door to the Brewery & Pub, Camp 33 is one of the Upper Peninsula’s finest gift shops. The selection covers UP-themed clothing, Merrell shoes, art prints, blankets, and handcrafted gifts — all in a setting that echoes the park’s logging heritage.
Hours: May 1 through the 3rd weekend of October, 10am–5pm | Phone: (906) 492-3341
17. Attend a Special Event
Tahqua Trail Run (August) — A trail race finishing at the Upper Falls. Distances include 10K, 25K, and a new 50K added in 2026.
Wilderness Canoe Race (September) — A 17.5-mile solo or team canoe race from Lower Falls to Lake Superior.
Hike Between Da Falls (Late September) — A free shuttle is offered on the 5-mile River Trail. A beloved local tradition.
Harvest Festival (October) — A two-day autumn camping event at the Lower Falls campgrounds with pumpkin carving, a chili cook-off, and a pet costume contest.
⭐️ Looking for more road trip ideas? Check out this ultimate Michigan road trip itinerary.
Important Park Rules
- No drones on or above any viewing areas
- No swimming or wading near the Upper Falls
- No alcohol for anyone under 21
- No marijuana anywhere in the park
- No firewood brought in from outside — purchase certified heat-treated firewood at the park
- Pets must be on a 6-foot leash at all times; never leave pets unattended in vehicles
- A Michigan Recreation Passport is required for vehicle entry ($11/day for non-residents in 2026)
Visiting Tahquamenon Falls: FAQs
Entry requires a Michigan Recreation Passport. As of 2026, non-residents pay $11 for a daily pass or $34 for an annual pass. Michigan residents pay $15 at the time of license plate renewal. Rowboat rentals run $25/hour at the Lower Falls. The Hunter Shuttle costs $20 for the first rider and $5 for each additional person or pet. Camping fees vary by site.
Plan a minimum of 3 to 4 hours to visit both the Upper and Lower Falls. A full day allows time for hiking, rowboating, and a meal at the Brewery and Pub. Most visitors who come for just a few hours wish they had stayed longer, and many end up spending 2 to 3 days camping and exploring the trails.
Yes — and it is one of the most accessible waterfall destinations in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The main path to the Upper Falls viewing platforms is paved and ADA-accessible. A free track chair is available at the Fact Shack — first-come or by reservation at (906) 492-3415. Standard wheelchairs are also free to borrow. The Lower Falls boardwalk and Ronald A. Olson Island Bridge are accessible for most mobility levels. A new 900-foot ADA-accessible boardwalk is under construction at the Upper Falls, expected to open spring 2026.
Yes — but only at the Lower Falls. Wading, swimming, and stepping behind the smaller cascades are all popular summer activities there. The current can be strong so hold children’s hands and wear water shoes on the rocky riverbed. Swimming and wading are prohibited near the Upper Falls due to the powerful and dangerous current.
Yes — dogs are welcome throughout the park on all hiking trails and viewing platforms. They must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet, be current on vaccinations, and you must clean up after them. Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the outdoor seating area at the Brewery and Pub, and the Hunter Shuttle accepts dogs as well.
Every season offers something special. Summer is ideal for swimming and rowboating, though it draws the largest crowds. Fall delivers stunning foliage against the amber water with far fewer visitors — many locals consider it the best season. Winter brings a peaceful, crowd-free wonderland. Spring delivers the highest water volume, with up to 50,000 gallons per second at peak runoff. Late September is the sweet spot if you can only visit once.
It is possible but rushed. Tahquamenon Falls is approximately 88 miles — about 1.5 hours — from Munising, the western gateway to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Most visitors who attempt both in one day wish they had given each destination its own full day. A better plan is to base yourself in Paradise or Newberry for two nights and dedicate a full day to each.
Absolutely. Michigan’s largest waterfall, one of the most voluminous waterfalls east of the Mississippi, 50,000 acres of old-growth wilderness, world-class hiking, swimming, birding, fishing, camping, and the only brewpub inside a Michigan state park — all in one place. Whether you have a few hours or a full weekend, Tahquamenon Falls delivers one of the most memorable outdoor experiences in the Midwest.
⭐️ Want to head in the other direction towards Traverse City? Consider visiting Mackinac Island!
