Lower Tahquamenon Falls

Four miles downstream, the Lower Falls, reached off M-123, is smaller but equally impressive in its own serene way. Here the Tahquamenon River drops 22 feet in a series of cascades surrounding a sizable island and a series of boulders. You can view the series of waterfalls from a high bluff, but it's a good idea to rent a rowboat from the concession. Currently it's $4/person, $12/boat maximum. (Call 906-492-3313 for info.) The rowboat takes you much closer, over to the island, where a footpath goes right up to the falls.

Below the Lower Falls, the Tahquamenon River offers the park's best fishing, for northern pike, muskies, and walleye. "Upstream from the Lower Falls, for about a mile, the rapids hold brown trout that are easily fished while wading." So states the annotated park map. "Bald eagles often fish the rapids around the falls in the early morning. Come evening, the common nighthawk joins the belted kingfisher and river otter in making a living off the river."
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TAHQUAMENON FALLS STATE PARK
POINTS OF INTEREST

North Star Bakery. A surprising treat in this remote area off the electrical grid: a bakery with a wood-fired brick oven turning out crusty loaves of European-style sourdough breads - 17 kinds, several cheese combinations, multigrains, French, raisin-walnut ... more

Upper Tahquamenon Falls. A dramatic observation platform lets you stand at the falls' brink and look down at the 50-foot rush of falling water, 200 feet wide. Look out a bit and you can gaze on the tranquil river before its plummet. Come early to avoid crowds ... more

Lower Tahquamenon Falls. Four miles below the more dramatic Upper Falls, the smaller Lower Falls, with its series of cascades, can be enjoyed from an island if you rent a rowboat. It's a more contemplative experience ... more

Wilderness trails north of M-123. 17 miles of trail get hikers away from crowds and into wildlife-rich wilderness habitat: lakes, conifer forests, sandy ridges, and bogs. The North Country Trail connects from the Two-Hearted River to the Falls. ... more

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