Kitch-iti-Kipi
The natural wonder—Kitch-iti-Kipi—is known by several names. Big Spring, Mirror of Heaven, or as the Ojibwe people called it: big cold spring. It’s one of the premier attractions of Palms Book State Park.
While certainly one of the quieter attractions to the Michigan peninsula, everyone who visits is awestruck by the water’s beauty and thankful that they ended up visiting. What can you do in this beautiful natural spring? What can’t you do? We have all the answers right here.
Hours
8 AM - 10 PM every day
Cost
While a day pass for access to Kitch-iti-Kipi is around $9 per person, you can get in free if you have a Michigan Recreation Passport. If you already own of these, it’s an easy recommendation!
If you want to ride the raft, there is no extra charge beyond the initial entry fee.
What is the Mirror of Heaven?
As mentioned before, Mirror of Heaven is another nickname for Kitch-iti-Kipi. It gets this name because visitors hike up above the spring, giving them a perfect vantage point to see a reflection of the sky in the water below. It’s a suitable name!
Things to Do in Kitch-iti-Kipi
The Big Spring has several attractions that will keep you occupied after a long day at some of the major Michigan peninsula landmarks.
Boat Tour
While you’re not allowed to take your own boat onto the water, you can ride the free raft out to the center of the spring. This will give you a closer look at the fish that dare live in the freezing cold water. It’s a crank raft on a track, so before you visit you may want to lift a dumbbell once or twice.
Nature Trail
If the water’s not your thing, venture up the short, ADA-approved trail to see the water from a birds-eye view. It’s the ideal way to experience the entirety of the lake.
Things You Cannot Do
As mentioned before, the water is FREEZING in Kitch-iti-Kipi year-round. It’s also protected by the state. As such, you aren’t allowed (and probably wouldn’t want) to try typical water sports activities in its icy waters. This includes (but is not limited to):
- Swimming
- Kayaking
- Boating
- Fishing
- Paddleboarding
Kitch-iti-Kipi Facts
Depth: 45 feet
Size: Sitting at 388 acres, The Big Spring is actually the largest natural spring in Michigan
Temperature: The water here is always 45 degrees F.
Why is the water greenish?
The emerald hue that radiates from the water comes from the limestone found in the waters’ depths.
Is Kitch-iti-Kipi dog-friendly?
Yes! Well-mannered dogs are allowed on the property, in the raft, and on the trail so long as they are on a leash.
What is Kitch-iti-Kipi like in winter?
Because it’s a hot spring, your experience visiting Kitch-iti-Kipi in the winter won’t be too different from the summer. The water may be a little bit darker and less vibrantly green, and occasionally the surface of the ice will freeze over. People usually prefer the warmer weather for the trail, however.
Indian Lake State Park
Let’s say you were disappointed when you arrived at Kitch-iti-Kipi because you couldn’t get into the water. Luckily for you, the nearby lake—Indian Lake—will allow you to swim, fish, and boat to your heart’s content! Remember that Northland Outfitters can hook you up with great deals on water equipment.
It makes a brief visit to the Big Spring easier to swallow for those who love water sports more than anything!