Explore Kitch-iti-kipi ("Big Springs")

Kitch-iti-kipi is a beautiful and easily accessed attraction in the southern region of Michigan's UP. The springs are a short 11.5 mile drive from the town of Manistique and are the perfect side trip for a UP getaway.

Parking is plentiful at Palms Book State Park and a parking attendant will check for your recreation passport as you pull in. If you do not have one you can buy one on the spot. They cost $11 annually for Michigan residents and $9 daily for non-Michigan residents. Once parked follow the short path to the shore of Kitch-iti-kipi and take in the crystal clear, aqua-colored spring. After you've explored the shore and read the placard explaining the history of Kitch-iti-kipi, get in line to ride the self-operated raft across the 200 foot long spring. While on your peaceful ten minute journey enjoy views from the deck of water bubbling up from limestone fissures and displacing sand on the spring floor, fallen tree trunks, and giant trout.

It's a short adventure that only requires about an hour of time but Kitch-iti-kipi delivers some of the most unique scenery in the UP.