Kitch-iti-kipi is Michigan’s largest freshwater spring. It’s located just north of Manistique and a short detour off of Highway 2. It’s within a state park so there is a small entrance fee.

According to UpTravel.com “Here more than 10,000 gallons of vibrant, aqua-colored water erupt each minute from the fissures in the limestone base 40-feet below. The water maintains a constant 45 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, never freezing during the cold Michigan winters. Looking into the water’s depths, you’ll find ancient tree trunks, fat trout, lime-encrusted branches and clouds of sand.”

There is a hand-propelled raft with an opening in the center for viewing the crystal-clear water as you head out over the spring.

A state park volunteer was positioned at the raft because we visited on a busy summer weekend and they mentioned that it’s actually better to visit in the winter when it’s less crowded and the water appears even more strikingly clear and blue.

Near the park entrance is Big Spring Tavern. We stopped there for a quick bite to eat before heading to our dispersed campsite in the Hiawatha National Forest.

I booked the campsite through Recreation.gov and it was one of the most remote sites I’ve been to with only logging roads and ATV trails to get you there. Luckily our Jeep was capable enough and we really enjoyed the quiet and isolation. We had an entire lake to ourselves!

The Upper Peninsula is one of my favorite places on the planet. There are endless things to do and see. If you’re interested in more U.P. highlights, I have tons of other posts that take a deep dive into the coolest spots!