“take in this breathtaking legend”
Palms Book is an exciting side trip for visitors touring the Upper Peninsula. Known as one of Michigan's alluring natural attractions, the park is home to Kitch-iti-kipi or the “Big Spring.” It is Michigan's largest freshwater spring spanning 200-feet across and 40-foot deep. The flow continues throughout the year at a constant 45 degrees Fahrenheit gushing more than 10,000 gallons of water a minute from fissures in the underlying limestone. By means of a self-guided observation raft, visitors are guided to vantage points overlooking fascinating underwater features and fantasies. Ancient tree trunks, lime-encrusted branches and fat trout can be seen as they slip through crystal waters far below. Clouds of sand kept in constant motion by gushing waters create ever-changing shapes and forms - a challenge to the imagination. The self-guided observation raft and the trail leading to it are ADA accessible.
I'll admit I was skeptical as to how awesome this place was.. When you arrive you park in the lot and walk through a short path and at first all you see is a small lake. Once you get to the edge you will realize that its not just a small lake. Its a massive spring with the clearest water I have ever seen!
There is a small raft with a wheel to pull you across. YOU HAVE TO DO THIS! you can look through the bottom and over the edges and see hundreds of fish swimming around and where the spring water comes up!
Stunning and well worth the trip! Try to get a campsite on the nearby Indian Lake. Some of the most pristine water I have ever seen!
So cool! Beautiful and magical to see and the air smells amazingly fresh. Big fish and clear water. Easy to get to for any age with restrooms, swings, grills and picnic tables.
Beautiful & amazing place. But remember this is a Michigan State Park, so it's not free & you do need a recreation passport or a daily pass to visit if the both is being tended!!! Offseason it's an honor system! So worth it though!!!
Camping nearby at on of the private campgrounds is CHEAP, 2014 rates were $24 for full hook up, cable tv & wifi!!!!
I go every time I make it to manstique love it there
Stunning! There are very few places you can go where the natural colors and natural wonders are beyond words. The crystal clear blue green water and the bright blue skies with puffy white clouds is like something you would see in your imagination. The huge fish swimming under the class bottom raft and fun to watch as the puffs of water create clouds of sand. A must see for anyone visiting the Upper Peninsula. Bring bug spray because the mosquitos enjoy snacking on you! There is a small gift shop but in my opinion they do not items that reflect the amazing sights and experiences.
This was awesome! Even though it was rainy, the raft has a cover on it so you can still see clearly. All 3 teenagers loved it!
Great stop in the UP. The hand powered raft is fun for kids and adults. Very cool to glide over the springs and see the fish.
Well worth the trip. Stunning emerald water, teeming with large trout. The self operated covered raft has an open bottom to view the deep, clear water.
Surrounded by lovely forest, there’s lots of opportunities for photos and hikes.
Beautiful a trip worth taking!
Be the first to add a review to the Kitch-Iti-Kipi (Big Springs).
/-86.38201,46.00412,14/300x172@2x?access_token=pk.eyJ1Ijoicm9hZHRyaXBwZXJzIiwiYSI6ImJ3eVhLem8ifQ.yQYCwE4pIQahc6sjWNrrIQ)
Kitch-Iti-Kipi (Big Springs)
Hours
- Sun - Sat: 8:00 am - 10:00 pm
Problem with this listing? Let us know.
Good for paddling and winter sports.
-
Parking
-
Pets Allowed
-
Restrooms
-
Wifi
-
Wheelchair Accessible
-
Credit Cards Accepted
Parking
Nearby Hotels
Related Trip Guides
- Trip Guide
The ultimate guide to the best of Michigan's Upper Peninsula
- 14 Places
- 17:01
- 765 mi
- Trip Guide
The Great Northern is a 3,600 mile, cross-country odyssey
- 57 Places
- 66:21
- 3,599 mi
- Trip Guide
Gone But Not Forgotten: Former National Parks
- 7 Places
- Trip Guide
The ultimate guide to the best of Michigan's Upper Peninsula
- 14 Places
- 17:01
- 765 mi