Explore Kitch-iti-kipi ("Big Springs")
Details
Added by Sonja Saxe
Located in Palms Book State Park, Kitch-iti-kipi, also known as "Big Springs" is Michigan's largest freshwater spring and thanks to its ease of accessibility is a scenic destination adventurers of all skill levels and ages can enjoy.
Kitch-iti-kipi is a beautiful and easily accessed attraction in the southern region of Michigan's UP. The springs are a short 11.5 mile drive from the town of Manistique and are the perfect side trip for a UP getaway.
Parking is plentiful at Palms Book State Park and a parking attendant will check for your recreation passport as you pull in. If you do not have one you can buy one on the spot. They cost $11 annually for Michigan residents and $9 daily for non-Michigan residents. Once parked follow the short path to the shore of Kitch-iti-kipi and take in the crystal clear, aqua-colored spring. After you've explored the shore and read the placard explaining the history of Kitch-iti-kipi, get in line to ride the self-operated raft across the 200 foot long spring. While on your peaceful ten minute journey enjoy views from the deck of water bubbling up from limestone fissures and displacing sand on the spring floor, fallen tree trunks, and giant trout.
It's a short adventure that only requires about an hour of time but Kitch-iti-kipi delivers some of the most unique scenery in the UP.
Know for
Nearby
🌎
Local adventures
Find hikes, backpacking, photo spots, and more around Manistique.
🏕
Nearby lodging
Search campgrounds, glamping, and hotels near Manistique.
Reviews
Leave a Review
Worth the stop!
Such an interesting feature in a state park. Worth the stop for sure! Soak in the clarity of the water as you pull yourself across the lake!
4.0
Worth The Drive
There is no where else on earth where you can see such crystal clear waters. Absolutely amazing!
5.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on.
