Tourists wait for hours to see spring’s crystal-clear waters
Headed to the Upper Peninsula this Labor Day weekend? Don’t miss this gem — Michigan’s largest natural freshwater spring, known as Kitch-iti-kipi, or the Big Spring.
It’s one of Michigan’s most alluring natural attractions, according to the state Department of Natural Resources.
Located in Palms Book State Park, the lake was nicknamed Mirror of Heaven by the Ojibwe for its crystal-clear, teal-colored waters, which remain a constant 45 degrees and rarely freeze in winter.
Here’s what you need to know headed to the Big Spring:
Where to find it
How to get in
What not to do
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It’s located inside Palms Book State Park, which is open 8 a.m. to dusk. It’s a 15-minute drive from Manistique and an hour from Munising, home of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
There is an accessible path from the parking lot to the observation deck-raft.
You’ll need a Michigan Recreation Passport. Vehicles with an out-of-state license plate will be charged $11 for a day pass. Cars from Michigan will be required to buy an annual pass for $18. Cash or checks only; no credit cards allowed.
The spring gets crowded and wait times can range from one to three hours. To avoid the crowds visit before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m.
If you’re waiting, you can find ice cream and other treats in the concession stand, which is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Know that your cellphone or GPS may not work in the park.
These activities are prohibited: Bathing, swimming, fishing, kayaking, boating and scuba diving. Launching any object into the water, such as an underwater camera, is also prohibited.
Source: Michigan Department of Natural Resources and the Upper Peninsula Travel & Recreation Association.