Upper Peninsula Hidden Gem: Kitch-iti-kipi

Last month we made a quick trip up to the Upper Peninsula for a few days in the Keweenaw, and then met my in-laws and our kiddos in Marquette. We had a great few days exploring our old “turf” and the trip was over way too quickly, as most great trips are! Of course, road trips with kids always add an element of… excitement to a journey, so on our way back south we knew we needed a place to stop and let them get some of their energy out. 

Cue: An Upper Peninsula Hidden Gem: Kitch-iti-kipi.

If you are preparing for a fall color tour this weekend up to the Upper Peninsula, you’ve got to make Kitch-iti-kipi (also known as Big Spring) a stop along the way. Michigan’s largest freshwater spring, Kitch-iti-kipi has some of the most clear, vibrant blue water you may ever see. It can be viewed by self-operated raft that gently pulls along over the water. It can be enjoyed any time of the year, and with the fall colors out right now, I’m sure it is stunning! Kitch-iti-Kipi is located at Palms Spring Park which is a 15 minute drive north of Thompson. It makes for a great midway point if you are traveling from the northwest part of the upper peninsula and heading back to the land of the trolls (aka, the lower peninsula). 

I knew that our boys would appreciate the park area to run (or crawl in Konrad’s case), swing, and find a treasure at the gift shop. But, both boys loved the raft even more. They loved seeing the fish in the water - even Konrad (9 months) was really fascinated. It ended up being the perfect place to stop and explore with them for a while!

If you make it a point to stop here for the first time, or you are returning, be sure to share your pictures - I’d love to see!