Tahquamenon Falls
AT LEAST 4 HOURS AT THE FALLS!
Tahquamenon Falls is a 77.5-mile (1.5-hour) drive from Grand Marais and an 88.3-mile drive (just over 1.5 hours) from Munising, the two gateways to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
Directions
46.610734,-85.206323
Upper Falls^^ (Construction on viewing platform set to wrap on 10/01/25 but all three other platforms are open and available.)
The lower falls has an excellent .75 mile boardwalk to the viewing platforms and a little island you can walk around to take in the sights. I believe they are still working on the upper falls viewing platform so that’s a 100-step staircase down/up to view them.
Tahquamenon Upper Falls
The Upper Falls at Tahquamenon is the park’s premier attraction. The beautiful waterfall is 200 feet wide and drops 50 feet into the river below. The water is an interesting brown color that churns into a rainbow hue of mahoganies and tans.
The color comes from tannins leached from the surrounding cedar and hemlock trees and is not, as some jokingly claim, the run-off from a nearby root beer factory. This is why you’ll sometimes hear this waterfall called Root Beer Falls.
To reach the Upper Falls viewing area, simply walk about ¼ mile to reach the overlook. This is a great spot to snap some photos of the falls.
If you want a closer look, heading to the brink viewing platform is a great idea, just be prepared for steps! You’ll need to climb down 93 of them. If you want an even closer look, you can climb down another 112 steps to reach the river. Beautiful!
Tahquamenon Lower Falls
Although the Upper Tahquamenon Falls is the larger and more famous cascade, the Lower Tahquamenon Falls are absolutely worth a visit.
These falls are actually a series of five waterfalls surrounding a small island, creating a tranquil and picturesque scene.
The Lower Falls viewing area receives fewer visitors than the Upper Falls–perfect if you don’t fancy crowds! Take a look at the falls from the different viewing platforms. Walk along the boardwalk to get to one of the prettiest viewing points: a platform at the edge of the trees.
Tahquamenon Falls Brewery and Pub
Camp 33 Gift Shop
What Else Is There To Do Near Tahquamenon Falls?
One of the best ways to enjoy the beauties of Upper Peninsula Michigan is with a road trip!
Head down the M-123 Tahquamenon Scenic Byway.
Continue along Lake Superior to visit Crisp Point Lighthouse, one of the most beautiful lighthouses in Michigan State.
Crisp Point Lighthouse: 1944 Co Hwy 412, Newberry, MI 49868