Exploring Tahquamenon Falls: Waterfalls, Trails, Camping and Family Fun in Michigan’s UP
If there’s one stop in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula that absolutely belongs on your family’s bucket list, it’s Tahquamenon Falls State Park. On our Upper Peninsula road trip, this was one of our favorite stops—so much so that we camped here and spent extra time exploring. With its thundering waterfalls, hiking trails, camping options, and plenty of ways to slow down and enjoy nature, Tahquamenon is an adventure the whole family will remember.
Tahquamenon Upper Falls
What You’ll Experience at Tahquamenon Falls
The falls are often called the “Root Beer Falls” because of their unique amber color, caused by tannins leached from nearby cedar swamps. The sound of rushing water, mist in the air, and the sheer size of the Upper Falls (200 feet across and nearly 50 feet tall!) are absolutely awe-inspiring.
The Lower Falls, a series of smaller cascades surrounding an island, are perfect for kids—especially if you want to splash and play in the falls. Amazingly enough, you can climb under the falls to a small rock shelf. Now there is a scenic boardwalk and handicap accessible bridge that makes accessing the falls even easier.
It’s the kind of place where kids can get their energy out, and parents can take in Michigan’s natural beauty without feeling rushed.
Best Things to Do with Kids
Visit the Upper Falls – An easy, stroller-friendly boardwalk leads to multiple viewing platforms. Prepare for some stairs if you want the closest views.
Explore the Lower Falls – Families can picnic, wade and swim in the Falls, the new bridge makes the falls even more accessible or rent boats to the island for a fun adventure.
Hike Between the Falls – About 4 miles one way (moderate difficulty). We recommend it for families with older kids or adventurous little hikers. If you don’t want to hike both ways, take the shuttle back or drop a vehicle off ( that’s what we did)
Eat at the Tahquamenon Falls Brewery & Pub – Located right in the park, it’s a unique stop for parents to enjoy local food while kids refuel with burgers or mac and cheese.
Wildlife spotting – Keep an eye out for deer, otters, and even bald eagles.
Hiking Between the Falls
The River Trail between the Upper and Lower Falls is one of the park’s highlights. It’s about 4 miles each way and takes you through thick forests, boardwalks, and riverside paths. It can be muddy especially after a rain, which we experienced- so bring good shoes. Our kids loved the challenge, and the reward at each end of the trail is another beautiful waterfall.
Tip: If hiking both ways feels like too much, the shuttle runs between the falls so you can hike one way and ride back.
Entrance Fee
Tahquamenon Falls is part of the Michigan State Park system, so entry requires a Recreation Passport. Camping, boat rentals, and the shuttle service have additional fees.
Michigan residents: $14 annually per vehicle (or $13 if purchased with your license plate renewal).
Non-residents: $11 for a daily pass, or $40 for an annual pass.
Recommended Length of Stay?
Half-day: Enough to see either the Upper or Lower Falls, walk the short boardwalks, and enjoy a picnic.
Full day: Best if you want to see both the Upper and Lower Falls, swim in the Lower Falls or hike between them.
2–3 days: Perfect if you want to camp, hike more trails, and explore nearby attractions like Whitefish Point, Paradise, or Crisp Point Lighthouse.
👉 Our family camped for two nights, and would have loved one more night because we adored the Rivermouth campsite on the water for fishing, kayaking and relaxing with views of the water.
Shuttle Information
The park via Hunter Shuttle Service offers a shuttle service between the Upper and Lower Falls during the main season. This is a lifesaver for families who want to do the 4 mile trail but don’t want to double the mileage. Shuttles transport on weekends from 12–8 p.m. through Labor Day. From June 21 to September 1, the shuttle runs daily. Fares are $20 for the first rider and $5 for each additional person or pet. Need a ride outside the regular hours? Call 906-291-3422. You can purchase shuttle tickets at either falls’ gift shop.
Lodging Near Tahquamenon Falls
Camping: We camped right in the Tahquamenon Falls State Park campground, and it was perfect for families. There is both rustic and modern sites that are wooded and quiet.
Tahquamenon Rivermouth Campground Personally, we adore the rustic sites which are quieter along the river to enjoy the sunsets, and fishing or kayaking right from your site. Although there are no modern restrooms or showers- it’s a short bike ride to the modern side of Campground which contain modern restrooms and showers.
Lower Falls Campground (Modern)
Located Near the scenic Lower Tahquamenon Falls with modern amenities, showers and restrooms.
If camping isn’t your thing, there are also cabins in the park and lodging in nearby Paradise, MI.
Lodging options:
Private campgrounds and rustic cabins in Paradise for those looking for a base with a few more amenities.
Tahquamenon Suites Lodging (Paradise) – Large, modern suites with full kitchens.
Magnuson Grand Lakefront – Just outside Paradise, with great lake views.
VRBO homes in Paradise or Newberry – Great for larger families or anyone who wants a comfy basecamp.
Family Favorite Eats:
The Inn- Delicious perch & white fish dinners. Everything we ordered was amazing. During our rainy day we spend a good bit of time here, they have a tiny gift shop to explore.
Tahquamenon Falls Brewery & Pub - Kid friendly spot with yummy pub style food and drink.
Family Tips for Visiting Tahquamenon Falls
Bring water shoes if you plan to wade at the Lower Falls.
Pack layers—it can be cooler and damp near the waterfalls.
Start early if you want fewer crowds at the Upper Falls.
Stop at the gift shop—they have fun kid-friendly souvenirs like “Root Beer Falls” t-shirts.
Don’t miss the root beer itself at the pub—it’s made right there and a huge hit with kids!
Book lodging early! These small towns fill up fast, especially during summer.
Sample 3-Day Family Itinerary for Tahquamenon Falls & Nearby Adventures
Day 1: Arrival + Lower Falls Fun
Set up camp at Tahquamenon Falls State Park or check into a nearby cabin/hotel in Paradise.
Spend the afternoon swimming and exploring the Lower Falls. Rent a rowboat to paddle out to the island.
Have a family picnic by the river or head into Paradise for dinner. Don’t forget ice cream!
Evening: Settle around the campfire at your campsite.
Day 2: Upper Falls + Hiking Adventure
Start the morning with a hearty breakfast at camp.
Visit the Upper Falls—take your time exploring the different viewing platforms (and yes, be ready for some stairs if you want the closest view).
Lunch at the Tahquamenon Falls Brewery & Pub (root beer for the kids, Michigan craft brew for parents).
In the afternoon, hike the River Trail between the Upper and Lower Falls (4 miles one way). If you’re with younger kids, do just part of it and catch the shuttle back.
Evening: Back at camp, relax, play cards, and enjoy the sounds of the forest.
Day 3: Nearby Adventures + Lake Superior
Head to Whitefish Point & the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum (15 miles north). Explore the museum, lighthouse, and Lake Superior shoreline—kids love searching for driftwood and rocks.
Picnic lunch by the water.
Option 1: Take a drive out to Crisp Point Lighthouse for a more off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Option 2: If your family loves animals, make the trip to Oswald’s Bear Ranch near Newberry.
Return for one last evening at camp, or start your drive to the next Upper Peninsula stop on your road trip.
Nearby Activities for Families
Make the most of your trip by checking out these fun nearby spots: During a rainy day, we headed to Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum
Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum & Whitefish Point (15 miles away) – Stuck with a rainy day? This is a great stop. A fascinating and family-friendly museum on Lake Superior’s shore, telling the stories of shipwrecks (including the famous Edmund Fitzgerald). Plus, you can walk the beach and look for treasures along the shoreline. Prices $15 adults, $11 Kids.
Yooperlite Hunting at Whitefish Point Beach – Spend an evening on the rocky beaches with a UV light searching for unique glowing rocks. Even if you don’t find any, just walking the beach with under the stars is a memorable experience.
Paradise, Michigan – A small UP town with diners, gift shops, and ice cream stops perfect for a family treat.
Crisp Point Lighthouse – A remote but rewarding adventure to one of the most picturesque lighthouses in Michigan. Bring a picnic!
Newberry, Michigan – The “Moose Capital of Michigan,” where you might spot wildlife and find a few more dining options.
Oswald’s Bear Ranch – About 45 minutes away, this is one of the largest bear sanctuaries in the U.S. and a huge hit with kids. Great stop en route while traveling through the UP.
Pet bears at Oswald Bear Ranch
Closing Thoughts
Tahquamenon Falls was truly a highlight of our UP road trip. Between the stunning scenery, family-friendly trails, and the chance to camp right inside the park, it’s the kind of place that reminds you why it’s worth getting the kids outside. If you’re planning a family trip to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, make sure to set aside at least a full day (or even better—a couple nights camping!) to soak it all in.
This stop gave our kids space to explore and us parents a chance to take a deep breath surrounded by some of the most beautiful landscapes in Michigan. Tahquamenon Falls is more than just a waterfall—it’s a family memory waiting to be made.
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