Fall colors in the Tahquamenon Falls State Park.

6 Best Natural Wonders To Visit In Michigan This Year

Michigan, meaning “large lake,” actually encompasses the shores of four of the five ocean-like Great Lakes. This scenic Midwest state flaunts the nation's longest freshwater coastline, which earns it the rightful claim to “America's Third Coast." Exploring 3,200 miles of shoreline, you will discover two of only three national lakeshores in the United States.

In addition to inland waterways and tremendous waterfalls, forested land covers over half of the state. The aquamarine aura around the state is balanced by towering dunes and unsung beaches. Whether you're after a rush of adventure or emotions, it is easy to find both in a state that is a wonder in itself. Taking in the swirls of the Kitch-iti-kipi can feel like meddling in an ancient potion spell. Among its wild wonders, these six natural marvels stand out as the best to visit in Michigan this year.

Kitch-iti-kipi (The Big Spring)

Kitch-iti-kipi is an amazing natural spring in Manistique, Michigan.
Kitch-iti-kipi is an amazing natural spring in Manistique, Michigan.

Beyond the Great Lakes shores, Kitch-iti-kipi "springs" to mind. First discovered by the Ojibwa, who nicknamed it “Mirror of Heaven,” Michigan's largest natural freshwater spring is accessible within Palms Book State Park, some 15 minutes north of Manistique. Visitors enjoy the pet-friendly trail and the nearby picnic area with charcoal grills and a concession stand selling supplies, snacks, and souvenirs. The glassy surface reflects the sky and towering trees of the surrounding forest, while the ever-bubbling spring spews out clouds of sand.

A large self-propelled raft slices the emerald-tinted nether due to the water traveling through the limestone and picking up minerals. With its center removed to observe, the shapeshifting floor reveals fat trout gliding among the ancient tree trunks and lime-encrusted branches—the frigid temps preserve everything below. Whether you discover ancient secrets or simply get a few cool shots in, gazing eons back into the ethereal 40-foot depths is a life-changing experience. Back at the dock, reflect over one of the Upper Peninsula's most mystical sites on a picnic.

Mackinac Island's Arch Rock

Arch Rock at Mackinac Island, Michigan
Arch Rock at Mackinac Island, Michigan

Located between Michigan’s Upper and Lower peninsulas, Mackinac Island is known for incredible coastal scenery, excellent hiking, and the historic Grand Hotel, which boasts the world’s longest porch. Between the best fudge of your life, sandy beaches, and 19th-century forts and architecture, Arch Rock is part of the state park that encompasses 80% of the island, with trails, other formations, and rocky beaches. In fact, you can walk the entire 8-mile scenic loop route with stunning views of Lake Huron, the Mackinac Bridge, and historic sites.

The millennia-old 146-foot-tall natural limestone presides over the southeastern rocky shore overlooking the lake. This quaint gem is undoubtedly one of the easiest and most rewarding hikes you will ever make, under 30 minutes by foot from the docks. It is also accessible via the Arch Rock Bicycle Trail, which starts behind the governor's residence, or a carriage tour in town. Stand beneath, then up the staircase for those willing to make the push for thrills. The car-free resort island on Lake Huron offers ferry service from St. Ignace and Mackinaw City. Summer is the best time to go, when all ferry routes run and the car-free island is fully active with visitors.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan
Pictured Rock National Lakeshore is managed by the National Parks Service. Photography by Dennis MacDonald via Shutterstock.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a geological masterpiece, especially the 15 miles of mineral-stained sandstone cliffs that inspired its name. Established in 1966, the first designated national lakeshore of only three in the country stretches for 42 miles between Munising and Grand Marais. Groundwater seeps from the cliffs, and waterfalls like Eliot and Bridalveil spill over into the lake, enhancing the colorful strata. Some sandstone was quarried from Grand Island for the late 1800s buildings.

The exposed cliff-topped rock walls represent two widely separated geologic periods in time: 500-800 million years and two million years before present. Whether you're in for a serene kayak paddle or a boat tour from Munising, the lakeshore lures millions with such intensity against the Caribbean blue of Superior. Peak season runs from June through September, offering ideal conditions for kayaking, hiking, and boat tours. In addition to the iconic 1874 Au Sable Lighthouse and another one on Grand Isle, miles of pristine beaches, historic shipwrecks, and acres of woodlands inspire the sole enjoyment of relentless venturers.

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park

 Lake of the Clouds in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Michigans largest state park, surrounded by breathtaking fall foliage.
Lake of the Clouds in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, Michigans largest state park, surrounded by breathtaking fall foliage.

Plan to visit "the Porkies" in the upcoming fall to rid the blues. Located at the state border with Wisconsin and Minnesota, Michigan’s largest state park encompasses 60,000 acres of old-growth forest with incomparable vistas along Lake Superior's south shore. Between the roaring waterfalls, trails, and ridges, find cabins along Mirror Lake plus campsites by the Summit Peak. This wooded, well-maintained hike features a staircase to the observation tower overlooking the verdant sea or glorious foliage all the way to the sliver of Lake Superior.

Known most for sites like the scenic Presque Isle River corridor, both sides of the brilliant blue Presque Isle River light up in brilliant foliage. October is especially magical, when the autumn colors transform the entire forest into a painter’s canvas. It is likewise an ideal destination to beat pre-holiday crowds at the Porcupine Mountains Winter Sport Complex, which also offers fall chairlift rides and disc golf. The Lake of the Clouds Overlook perches high in the heart, with unbeatable tranquility and a panorama. Accessible via a trail hike, the glacial lake, snug between lush, rolling hills to the horizon, is the most awe-inspiring sight in the Midwest.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Tourists and Campers on Lake Michigan Overlook in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan.
Tourists and Campers on Lake Michigan Overlook in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan.

Tucked along the western shore of Michigan's "Mitten," beneath the Grand Traverse Bay, this curving lakeshore was named by the Ojibwa Indians after a large dune that resembled a sleeping bear. Shaped over thousands of years by glaciers, the area is long sought after for recreation, maritime culture, and panoramic vistas from up to 450-foot scalable sandy bluffs. Many enjoy the warmer months for picnics and swimming from one of the sugar-sand beaches, like the serene Sleeping Bear Point Beach.

The highest bluffs around all of Lake Michigan shapeshift by day and season, promising different views and adventures. From the Sleeping Bear Dunes Overlook to the iconic Empire Bluff Trail, it is easy to find a secluded hideaway or simply let the day slip away at the Empire Beach 'til the late summer sunset. In addition to 35 miles of protected shoreline, there are crystal-clear coves and inland lakes to explore via canoe, kayak, or tube, plus the preserved wilderness of both the North and South Manitou Islands.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park

Fall colors in the Tahquamenon Falls State Park.
Fall colors in the Tahquamenon Falls State Park.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park houses Upper and Lower Tahquamenon Falls, 13 inland lakes, and 24 miles of the Tahquamenon River. Both the Upper and Lower Falls dispel along the spring-fed river that starts near Newberry in Luce County and meanders for 89 miles to meet Whitefish Bay on Lake Superior. Accessible to all with a current Michigan Recreation Passport, the state park gains popularity among hikers, campers, and sightseers. It is open year-round, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., with easy M-123 access from Paradise and Newberry.

Explore the River Trail or hop over to the island at Lower Tahquamenon Falls, a beautiful place with cascades on all sides. There is a cafe and a gift shop by the parking lot. Though three hours is enough to explore the forest habitat and relax in the splendor at Tahquamenon Falls, many plan a couple of days. The 48,000-acre park offers some 20,000 acres of natural area and over 35 miles of trails with diverse wildlife and dozens of bird species. In addition to campgrounds, the trails turn into snowmobile, snowshoe, and cross-country ski routes.

A Natural Retreat In Michigan

From the UP's Pictured Rocks to the Mitten's Sleeping Bear Dunes and Mackinac Island in between, it may seem overwhelming. The Great Lakes State promises a rush that will overwhelm only sensually beneath the thunderous waterfall or on a blufftop over Lake Michigan. Towns named like Paradise and Empire are a dead giveaway. Paddling along the Pictured Rocks, exploring the dunes, or in the wilderness embrace of the "Porkies" along Lake Superior's shore—rest assured, you will gain a newfound appreciation for Mother Nature at her finest.

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