
Kitch-iti-kipi Big Spring
Michigan's largest freshwater spring, offering a mesmerizing view of turquoise waters and underwater wonders via a unique observation raft.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Vibrant colors & clear views

Kitch-iti-kipi Big Spring
Best Time
Vibrant colors & clear views

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Michigan's largest freshwater spring, offering a mesmerizing view of turquoise waters and underwater wonders via a unique observation raft.
"It's like peering into a dream; peaceful, surreal, and totally unforgettable."

☀️ Sunny Day Magic
Visit on a sunny day for the most vibrant turquoise waters and best visibility into the depths.
🚗 Park Pass Needed
A Michigan Recreation Passport or day permit is required for entry.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Observation Raft
Across the spring
Glide across the crystal-clear water on a self-operated raft, peering 40 feet down into the mesmerizing depths.

Mesmerizing Turquoise Waters
The Big Spring
Witness the stunning, ever-bubbling teal-colored water, nicknamed the 'Mirror of Heaven' by the Ojibwa.

Abundant Underwater Life
Below the surface
Observe large fish and ancient sunken trees through the incredibly clear water, a truly captivating sight.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Views
Park Pass & Accessibility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
☀️ Sunny Day Magic
Visit on a sunny day for the most vibrant turquoise waters and best visibility into the depths.
🚗 Park Pass Needed
A Michigan Recreation Passport or day permit is required for entry.
♿ Fully Accessible
The entire experience, including the observation raft, is ADA accessible.
🚫 No Swimming/Fishing
Enjoy the view from the raft; swimming, fishing, and drones are prohibited.
Tips
from all over the internet
☀️ Sunny Day Magic
Visit on a sunny day for the most vibrant turquoise waters and best visibility into the depths.
🚗 Park Pass Needed
A Michigan Recreation Passport or day permit is required for entry.
♿ Fully Accessible
The entire experience, including the observation raft, is ADA accessible.
🚫 No Swimming/Fishing
Enjoy the view from the raft; swimming, fishing, and drones are prohibited.
📸 Don't Drop Your Phone!
The view is mesmerizing; be careful with your phone near the water's edge.
🎁 Gift Shop Available
There's a gift shop on-site for souvenirs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Kitch-iti-kipi for its stunningly clear turquoise waters and the unique observation raft experience. Many describe it as a mesmerizing natural wonder and a must-see in the Upper Peninsula. Some note that it can get crowded, making it a quick stop rather than a lengthy excursion.
"Super beautiful lake but it is very packed with tourists. If you're looking for more remote views, this isn't the spot for you. Its a quick stop and go kind of thing. I don't think I was there longer than 15 minutes. Cute gift shop."
Brenna Duncan
"Do not skip this place! It is worth an extra drive wherever you are on the peninsula. Absolutely charming, beautiful green and blue colors in the water, a fascinating spring and the raft itself is cool - super quiet and environmentally friendly. Fee is $11 (for an out-of-state vehicle) and you wait in line to get on the raft. They have a huge gift shop there as well."
JitkaKac
"An amazing place!! You need a parks permit or buy a day permit to enter. It is handicap accessible for the full experience. Best seen on a sunny day. I believe it is a 12 acre lake that is 45 ft deep and stays 45° year round. And you can see the bottom like it is right below you."
Here we Go
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kitch-iti-kipi is located in Palms Book State Park in Manistique, Michigan, in the Upper Peninsula. A quick Google search for 'Kitch-iti-kipi location' will guide you. It's a popular stop for road trips around the UP.
Yes, Kitch-iti-kipi is very accessible. The entire experience, including the observation raft, is ADA accessible, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the natural wonder.
Kitch-iti-kipi is open year-round. The park itself has hours, and it's recommended to visit during daylight for the best experience, though winter visits offer a unique, less crowded perspective.
Absolutely! Winter visits to Kitch-iti-kipi are highly recommended for a serene experience, often with the raft all to yourself. The spring's constant temperature means it doesn't freeze.
Most visitors find Kitch-iti-kipi to be a quick stop, often around 15-30 minutes, depending on wait times for the raft. It's a perfect addition to a longer UP road trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A Michigan Recreation Passport is required for entry into Palms Book State Park. If you don't have one, you can purchase a day permit, which costs around $11 for out-of-state vehicles.
No advance booking is typically required for Kitch-iti-kipi. Entry is managed by the state park system, and you pay the park entrance fee upon arrival or with your Recreation Passport.
While the spring itself is a natural wonder, access to Palms Book State Park requires a Michigan Recreation Passport or a day-use permit fee, which is around $11 for non-residents.
The Michigan Recreation Passport is an annual pass that grants access to all Michigan state parks. It's a cost-effective option if you plan to visit multiple state parks throughout the year.
There are no specific entry restrictions beyond the park permit requirement. However, activities like swimming, fishing, and drone usage are prohibited within the spring area.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the 'Big Spring' itself, Michigan's largest natural freshwater spring. Visitors ride a self-operated observation raft across its 200-foot length to view the clear turquoise water and underwater features.
The observation raft is controlled by a pulley system. Visitors manually pull a rope to move the raft across the spring, allowing them to get a unique perspective of the water and its depths.
From the raft, you can see the incredibly clear, 45-degree Fahrenheit turquoise water, ancient sunken trees, and large fish swimming below. The visibility is remarkable, allowing you to see the bottom clearly.
No, swimming, fishing, and boating are strictly prohibited at Kitch-iti-kipi to preserve the natural environment and ensure visitor safety.
Yes, Kitch-iti-kipi is designed to be ADA accessible, including the observation raft, ensuring that visitors with mobility challenges can fully experience the spring.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Sunny days offer the most vibrant colors and best visibility for photos. Mid-morning or late afternoon can provide softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing your photographic opportunities.
No, drone usage is prohibited at Kitch-iti-kipi to maintain the tranquility of the natural setting and for safety reasons.
Focus on capturing the mesmerizing turquoise water, the unique observation raft, and the underwater scenery. Wide-angle shots can showcase the scale of the spring, while close-ups can highlight the clarity of the water and aquatic life.
Yes, you can take photos from the observation raft. Be mindful of your surroundings and ensure your phone or camera is secure, as dropping it into the spring would be a significant loss.
For vibrant colors, use a polarizing filter if available. Ensure good lighting by visiting on a sunny day. Experiment with different angles from the raft to capture the depth and clarity of the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that swimming is not allowed, so manage expectations for younger children who might be eager to splash around. The short duration of the visit makes it perfect for keeping little ones entertained without them getting bored. The sheer wonder of the clear water and the raft operation is usually enough to captivate them.
♿ Visitors with Mobility Challenges
The self-operated raft is easy to manage, and the viewing platform provides ample space. The park's design prioritizes accessibility, making it a stress-free destination for those who might find other natural attractions challenging. It's a testament to inclusive tourism in Michigan's beautiful Upper Peninsula.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
As a quick yet impactful natural wonder, it's perfect for a day trip or a brief exploration between longer destinations. The minimal time commitment and high visual reward make it a popular choice for maximizing a UP adventure. Don't forget your Michigan Recreation Passport or be prepared to purchase a day pass to ensure smooth entry.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend and Geology of Kitch-iti-kipi
Geologically, Kitch-iti-kipi is Michigan's largest freshwater spring, a testament to the underground water systems of the Upper Peninsula. The water emerges from the earth at a constant 45 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, which is why it never freezes, making it accessible even in the depths of winter. This consistent temperature and the mineral-rich water contribute to its unique turquoise hue and exceptional clarity, allowing visitors to see the bottom of the 40-foot-deep pool as if it were just inches away.
The surrounding Palms Book State Park, where Kitch-iti-kipi is located, was once part of the Palms Book Land Company. In a remarkable act of preservation, the company sold the 90 acres around the spring to the State of Michigan for a nominal sum, ensuring its protection for future generations. This foresight allows visitors today to experience this natural marvel as it has been for centuries.
Experiencing Kitch-iti-kipi: The Raft and Beyond
Beyond the raft ride, the surrounding Palms Book State Park offers a pleasant environment for a brief exploration. While Kitch-iti-kipi is the main draw, the park provides a peaceful setting to appreciate the natural beauty of the Upper Peninsula. Remember that swimming, fishing, and drone usage are prohibited to maintain the pristine condition of the spring and its ecosystem. The park is also pet-friendly, so your furry companions can join you on your visit.
For those looking for a more immersive experience, consider visiting during the off-peak seasons like winter. As one TikTok creator noted, visiting in winter means you'll likely have the raft all to yourselves, offering a truly tranquil and personal encounter with this natural wonder. The park is open from 8 am to 10 pm, so plan your visit accordingly to make the most of the daylight hours, especially for photography.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit