Kitch-iti-kipi (The Big Spring)

The Kitch-iti-kipi (The Big Spring) at Palms Book State Park in Richardsons Mill, Michigan is an easy 0.2-mile out-and-back walk along a universal access trail that features the breathtaking turquoise waters of Kitch-iti-kipi (The Big Spring).

This is not a hike, but rather a very short walk that leads to two viewing points of Kitch-iti-kipi, Michigan's largest freshwater spring. The Big Spring is approximately 40-feet deep and 200-feet wide with breathtakingly-clear turquoise water. Within the spring, visitors can literally see massive trout swimming around without having to look very hard. From the raft launch area, visitors can view ancient fallen trees as the trout swim around below your feet.

Self-Propelled Raft
At the far end of the trail is a self-propelled raft that visitors can use to explore from the middle of the pond if they wish. The raft works by turning a crank wheel.

Universal Access
This trail follows a universally accessible path that leads all the way to the boat landing. Both the trail and the boat/raft are ADA-accessible.

Popularity
This is one of the most popular outdoor attractions in the area, so at peak season and during peak hours, this place can be extremely crowded. Upon our roadtrip, we stopped by at 8:30AM, 30 minutes after the park opened, on a rainy day - we showed up to find just two other people who'd already claimed the boat. Due to a long schedule, we opted to skip the boat ride and just take some photos from the shore.

Restrooms & Water
There are restroom facilities available at the park. Additionally, the park provides water duri

Parking & Fees
There's a very large parking lot at the coordinates provided and as of September 2022, there's a $10 parking fee for out-of-state plates.

Rules
Take nothing but photos and leave nothing but footprints.