Holland Windmill Island | Grand Rapids

Kitch-iti-kipi, often called “The Big Spring,” is Michigan’s largest natural freshwater spring and a remarkable natural landmark located within Palms Book State Park near Manistique in the Upper Peninsula. This spring is renowned for its stunning clarity, size, and cultural significance, offering visitors a unique and immersive experience in the heart of Michigan’s wilderness.

Physical Characteristics and Natural Features

Kitch-iti-kipi spans approximately 200 feet in diameter and reaches a depth of about 40 feet. It is fed by underground aquifers that continuously supply over 10,000 gallons of crystal-clear water per minute. The spring maintains a steady water temperature of 45°F (7°C) year-round, which contributes to its vibrant emerald-green hue and remarkable clarity. The water is so clear that visitors can see down to the bottom, where large lime-encrusted tree trunks, ancient logs, and branches lie preserved in the cool, oxygen-rich environment.

Underwater, the spring is teeming with life. Fish species such as lake trout, brown trout, and brook trout thrive in the cool waters, creating a lively and captivating underwater ecosystem. The flow of water constantly stirs the sandy bottom, producing shifting patterns and a kaleidoscopic effect that enhances the visual allure of the spring.

Visitor Experience and Facilities

Access to Kitch-iti-kipi is designed to maximize visitors’ appreciation of its natural beauty while preserving the delicate environment. The spring is viewed primarily from a self-operated observation raft, which is unique in that it floats on the surface and is manually guided by visitors using a pulley system. The raft is equipped with a large glass-covered viewing window that allows people to look directly into the depths of the spring, almost as if they are suspended above an underwater aquarium.

The observation raft ride provides an intimate and awe-inspiring perspective of the spring, letting visitors study the underwater features, watch fish swim by, and observe the interplay of light and water from various angles. The raft is also ADA-accessible, making this incredible natural attraction available to visitors with mobility challenges.

Surrounding the spring is a paved trail that leads from the park entrance to the dock, making the area easily walkable and family-friendly. The park also features picnic areas, restroom facilities, and ample green space for visitors to relax and enjoy the natural setting.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The name “Kitch-iti-kipi” originates from the Ojibwe language, translating roughly to “big cold spring.” This name reflects the longstanding importance of the spring to the indigenous Ojibwe people and other Native American tribes who inhabited the region for centuries. The spring held spiritual and practical significance, serving as a sacred site and a reliable source of fresh, clean water.

Local legends and oral histories enrich the cultural fabric surrounding Kitch-iti-kipi. One such tale tells of a tragic love story involving a young Ojibwe woman and a French fur trader, with the spring symbolizing purity, enduring love, and the mystery of the natural world. These stories, passed down through generations, deepen the visitor’s appreciation of the spring beyond its physical beauty.

Conservation and Regulations

Palms Book State Park, which encompasses Kitch-iti-kipi, is managed to balance public access with environmental conservation. The park is open year-round from 8 a.m. until dusk, allowing visitors to experience the spring in different seasons, though the spring’s water temperature remains constant.

To enter the park, visitors need a Michigan Recreation Passport, which helps fund maintenance and preservation efforts. Swimming, fishing, and kayaking within the spring itself are prohibited to protect its delicate ecosystem and preserve water quality. However, nearby Indian Lake State Park offers water-based recreational activities for those interested.

Surrounding Attractions and Accessibility

Kitch-iti-kipi’s location in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula makes it an excellent stop for travelers exploring the broader region. Nearby attractions include Fayette Historic State Park, known for its preserved 19th-century industrial town; Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, famous for its colorful sandstone cliffs and shoreline; and the iconic Mackinac Bridge connecting the Upper and Lower Peninsulas.

The park is accessible by car, with parking available near the entrance. The paved trail and ADA-accessible observation raft ensure that visitors of varying physical abilities can enjoy the site comfortably. The facilities and natural setting cater to families, nature lovers, photographers, and cultural enthusiasts alike.

In summary, Kitch-iti-kipi (The Big Spring) stands out as a spectacular natural wonder in Michigan. Its extraordinary clarity, vast size, steady cold temperature, and cultural heritage combine to create a destination that is both visually breathtaking and deeply meaningful. Visitors leave with an appreciation of not only the natural beauty of the spring but also the rich history and legends that have surrounded it for centuries.