Welcome to the Park of the Week Newsletter for October 19, 2023. This week’s park features jaw-dropping beauty.
Tahquamenon Falls State Park
Location
Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, United States
Claim to fame
Tahquamenon Falls is the second largest state park in Michigan and home to several waterfalls. At 50 feet high and 200 feet wide, the Upper Falls is one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River, second only to Niagara Falls in volume.
The water of the Tahquamenon River is a rust-brown color, complementing the oranges and yellows of autumn leaves in a way that begs to be photographed.
Reason to visit
A view of the falls is more than enough reason to visit, but Tahquamenon Falls has more to offer. The park maintains more than 35 miles of trail, including a scenic climb between the Lower and Upper Falls. Rowboats can be rented for a paddle out to an island surrounded by the Lower Falls.
The park is also a great spot for those with limited mobility. The recent addition of a bridge makes the Lower Falls island accessible for wheelchairs. The park also loans out a track chair that can handle rugged terrains–even snow.
Wild Fact
The Tahquamenon River’s amber color comes from tannins leached from cedar, spruce, and hemlock trees residing in swamps that drain into the river. Soft water creates frothy foam at the Upper Falls. The result is a waterfall that some people say resembles a massive root beer float.
Want to learn more about Tahquamenon Falls State Park? Visit the park’s website here.
Thanks for reading. Each Thursday, I send out an image and description of a unique natural or cultural treasure like the one above. Learn new things, explore special places, and find your inspiration: sign up for the free newsletter today.