š Kitch-iti-kipi, also known as The Big Spring, is Michigan's largest natural freshwater spring, captivating visitors with its mystical, crystal-clear waters.
š Located within Palms Book State Park, this unique natural wonder is home to ancient tree trunks, abundant trout, and mesmerizing swirling sands.
āØ Experience the magic of the "Mirror of Heaven" with its ever-bubbling, teal-colored water.
š Observe fascinating underwater features, including ancient trees and large trout, from a self-operated observation raft.
šļø Enjoy a serene natural setting that rarely freezes, even in harsh winters, making it a year-round attraction.
āæ The observation raft and trail are ADA accessible, welcoming all visitors.
š Discovered in the 1920s by John I. Bellaire, who envisioned its potential as a public recreation spot.
š³ The state of Michigan acquired the spring and surrounding land in 1926 for $10, establishing Palms Book State Park.
š The name Kitch-iti-kipi means "big cold spring" in the Ojibwe language, with other interpretations like "The Great Water" and "Bubbling Spring."
š¤« Local lore includes tales of a young chieftain's tragic love and maidens seeking true love, though some legends were reportedly created to publicize the park.
š An oval pool, approximately 300 by 175 feet (91 m Ć 53 m) and 40 feet (12 m) deep, with an emerald green bottom.
š§ Over 10,000 gallons of water per minute gush from limestone fissures, maintaining a constant temperature of 45 Ā°F (7 Ā°C) year-round.
š Crystal-clear waters reveal ancient tree trunks, mineral-encrusted branches, and various fish species like lake, brown, and brook trout.
š Clouds of sand, kept in constant motion by gushing waters, create ever-changing shapes and forms, adding to its mystique.
š¶ Visitors can explore the spring's depths via a self-operated observation raft, guided by a cable across the pool.
šļø Viewing windows on the raft provide unique perspectives of the underwater world.
š Kitch-iti-kipi is situated within Palms Book State Park, about 15 minutes north of Manistique on M-149, a mile north of the County Road 455 junction.