Kitch-iti-kipi Big Spring
1 / 10

Kitch-iti-kipi Big Spring

4.8
·8k reviews·Manistique, United States

Michigan's largest freshwater spring, offering a mesmerizing view of turquoise waters and underwater wonders via a unique observation raft.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunny days

Vibrant colors & clear views

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Kitch-iti-kipi Big Spring

Kitch-iti-kipi Big Spring

Best Time

Sunny days

Vibrant colors & clear views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Michigan's largest freshwater spring, offering a mesmerizing view of turquoise waters and underwater wonders via a unique observation raft.

4.8
(8k reviews)

"It's like peering into a dream; peaceful, surreal, and totally unforgettable."

Vertical photo
TIP

☀️ 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Observation Raft

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

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

Abundant Underwater Life

Below the surface

Observe large fish and ancient sunken trees through the incredibly clear water, a truly captivating sight.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for the Best Views

Visit on a sunny day for the most vibrant turquoise waters and best visibility into the depths. Arrive early or late to avoid peak crowds, especially during summer weekends. Winter visits offer a unique, serene experience with fewer visitors.

Park Pass & Accessibility

A Michigan Recreation Passport is required for entry, or you can purchase a day permit. The entire experience, including the observation raft, is ADA accessible, making it a great stop for all visitors.

Best Times

When
Sunny days
Why
Vibrant colors & clear views
Crowd
Medium
When
Early mornings/Late afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Winter
Why
Unique serene experience
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Kitch-iti-kipi in Upper Michigan is amazing! #kitchitikipisprings #UP #michigan #trout #spring #fyp #explore #traveling
@deestymil
115.7K likes • 1M views

☀️ Sunny Day Magic

Visit on a sunny day for the most vibrant turquoise waters and best visibility into the depths. Reddit

🚗 Park Pass Needed

A Michigan Recreation Passport or day permit is required for entry. TikTokReddit

Kitch-iti-kipi🫶 #upperpeninsulamichigan #kitchitikipisprings #manistique #michigangirl #michiganders
@detroitsportsdom
74.2K likes • 738.3K views
Oh 👀 Details below 👇🏼 📍Kitch-iti-kipi, Michigan: Located within Palms Book State Park; a quick google search will get you there! ⏱️ Open year round 💰 Michigan Recreation Passport (state park pass) required ⛔ No swimming, no fishing, no drones 🐾 Pet friendly ♿ ADA accessible ℹ️ The water temperature is a constant 45 degrees and the turquoise water is crystal clear. The wooden raft is self-propelle...
missnortherner
309.9K likes • 7M views

♿ Fully Accessible

The entire experience, including the observation raft, is ADA accessible. Instagram+1

🚫 No Swimming/Fishing

Enjoy the view from the raft; swimming, fishing, and drones are prohibited. TikTokInstagram

VC: Co-Admin @amature_traveler . 📍Location: Kitch-iti-Kipi Spring, Palms Book State Park, Manistique, Michigan (Upper Peninsula) . Kitch-iti-Kipi (Big Spring) is the Michigan’s largest freshwater spring. Every minute more than 10,000 gallons of water is erupted into the Indian lake. . The spring is 45 feet deep and the water temperature is around 45 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. . Formation: Mel...
united_states_of_telugu
272 likes • 8K views

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. Reddit

🚗 Park Pass Needed

A Michigan Recreation Passport or day permit is required for entry. TikTokReddit

♿ Fully Accessible

The entire experience, including the observation raft, is ADA accessible. Instagram+1

🚫 No Swimming/Fishing

Enjoy the view from the raft; swimming, fishing, and drones are prohibited. TikTokInstagram

📸 Don't Drop Your Phone!

The view is mesmerizing; be careful with your phone near the water's edge. Reddit

🎁 Gift Shop Available

There's a gift shop on-site for souvenirs. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(8k reviews)

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

Mesmerizing clear turquoise water
Unique observation raft
Stunning natural beauty

What People Dislike

Can be crowded
Quick stop

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. TikTokInstagram+1

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. Instagram+1

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. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTok+1

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. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. TikTokInstagramReddit

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. TikTok

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. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTok

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. Instagram+1

🎫 🏞️ 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. TikTokInstagram+1

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. TikTokReddit

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. TikTokInstagramReddit

No, swimming, fishing, and boating are strictly prohibited at Kitch-iti-kipi to preserve the natural environment and ensure visitor safety. TikTokInstagram+1

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. Instagram+1

📸 📸 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. Reddit

No, drone usage is prohibited at Kitch-iti-kipi to maintain the tranquility of the natural setting and for safety reasons. Instagram

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. TikTokInstagram

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. Reddit

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. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kitch-iti-kipi is a fantastic, easy stop for families. The observation raft is a unique and engaging experience for children, allowing them to see fish and sunken trees without any strenuous activity. Its ADA accessibility means strollers can easily navigate the pathways. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as it's a natural attraction with limited amenities beyond a gift shop. TikTokInstagram

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. Instagram

♿ Visitors with Mobility Challenges

Kitch-iti-kipi is exceptionally accommodating for visitors with mobility challenges. The entire area, including the pathway to the raft and the raft itself, is ADA accessible. This ensures that everyone can enjoy the breathtaking views of the spring and participate in the raft experience without difficulty. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers

Kitch-iti-kipi is an ideal stop for anyone road-tripping through Michigan's Upper Peninsula. Its location makes it a convenient and worthwhile detour, often taking only about 15-30 minutes to experience fully. It's frequently mentioned alongside other UP highlights like Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, making it easy to incorporate into a larger itinerary. TikTok+1

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. TikTokInstagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend and Geology of Kitch-iti-kipi

Kitch-iti-kipi, meaning 'Big Spring' in the Ojibwa language, is more than just a beautiful natural feature; it's steeped in history and geological wonder. The Ojibwa people revered this spring, nicknaming it the 'Mirror of Heaven' for its incredible clarity and depth. The spring is a significant natural phenomenon, pumping out an astonishing 10,000 gallons of water per minute into Indian Lake. TikTokInstagram+1

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. InstagramReddit+1

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. TikTokInstagram

Experiencing Kitch-iti-kipi: The Raft and Beyond

The signature experience at Kitch-iti-kipi is undoubtedly the self-operated observation raft. This simple yet ingenious wooden raft allows visitors to glide silently across the 200-foot-long spring. Controlled by a pulley system, it offers an unparalleled vantage point to gaze into the crystal-clear, turquoise waters. From this unique perspective, you can marvel at the ancient sunken trees resting on the bottom and observe the large fish that inhabit the spring. TikTokInstagram+1

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. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTok 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. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2