If you’re looking for a breathtaking side trip on your journey through the Central Upper Peninsula, you can’t skip over Kitch-iti-kipi or the “Big Spring” in Palms Book State Park. Nicknamed the “Mirror of Heaven'' by the Ojibwe, this must-see, year-round site reflects its surroundings on crystal-clear waters.
Kitch-iti-kipi quick facts
One of Michigan’s most popular attractions, it welcomes over 60,000 visitors annually.
Located 11 miles north of US-2 outside of Manistique.
The largest natural, freshwater spring in Michigan, it is 40 feet deep and 200 feet across.
The water temperature is a constant 45 degrees and the teal water is crystal clear. It rarely freezes in the winter.
10,000 gallons of water per minute erupts from fissures in the limestone rocks at the spring’s floor.
It is home to large lake trout, brown trout and brook trout.
The overflow of the spring waters enters a rushing stream that winds its way through the surrounding forest and empties into Indian Lake.
There is an ADA-accessible, paved path from the parking lot to the observation deck and dock. The raft is ADA-accessible, too.
Pet-friendly; pets must be on a six-foot or shorter leash at all times in the park and on the raft. If the raft is crowded, please consider keeping your pet on shore.
No swimming. No fishing. No kayaking or paddling. You can swim, fish and paddle at the nearby Indian Lake State Park.
