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Located in Manistique, Michigan's Upper Peninsula, Palms Book State Park is home to Kitch-iti-kipi, or "The Big Spring," Michigan’s largest freshwater spring. Kitch-iti-kipi was discovered by Seney native, John Bellaire, who fell in love with the springs' beauty, and visited it daily. Instead of keeping the spring private, he saw the potential in sharing its beauty with travelers like himself, and in 1926 it was sold to the State of Michigan for $10 and a promise of developing a state park on the land.
This remarkable spring discharges over 10,000 gallons of water per minute at a steady 45 degrees Fahrenheit through fissures in historic limestone formations, ensuring its 200 ft wide, 40 ft deep, crystal-clear, emerald-green pool. The spring’s continuous flow and the unique limestone geology contribute to its kaleidoscope effect, clarity, and constant temperature. Due to its clarity, and untouched waters it is home to a variety of lake trout, brown trout, and brook trout, with occasional sightings of yellow perch. Surrounding the spring are diverse plant species and occasional wildlife sightings, adding to the park’s natural allure.
Palms Book State Park is nestled between Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, at the north end of Indian Lake, Michigan's Upper Peninsula second-largest inland lake. Visitors can explore the spring via a self-guided, accessible observation raft, offering stunning views of the underwater features and abundant fish life. The park also provides seasonal concessions and souvenirs. However, Kitch-iti-kipi can be accessed all year round for those who enjoy snowmobiling, snowshoeing and skiing.
Its name, derived from Native American languages, has many meanings, ‘Mirror to Heaven’, ‘Bubbling Spring’, ‘The Blue Sky I See’, to name a few, and each has deep cultural significance. Several Native American legends are associated with the spring. One tale involves a young chieftain's tragic quest to prove his love, while others describe magical properties attributed to the spring's waters.
Although you are no longer able to swim or fish in The Big Spring, the park is located just 7 miles from Indian Lake State Park, where you can enjoy these activities and more. Additional recreational opportunities nearby include hiking trails and picnic areas. Along with close proximity to Manistique’s downtown area, where you can catch a bite to eat, and a place to stay or shop. Located close to Germfask, Curtis, and Seney and just around an hour drive to or from other day trip destinations such as Escanaba, Munising, Grand Marias, Newberry, St. Ignace, Marquette, and Sault Ste. Marie.
To Learn more about Kitch-iti-kipi (The Big Spring) and other area attractions:
Visit:
Call:
Schoolcraft Tourism and Commerce: (906) 341-5010
or
The Big Spring Gift Shop: (906) 644-7337
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