Accessible Adventures in the Tahquamenon Falls Area
Plan an inclusive Upper Peninsula getaway with wheelchair-accessible waterfalls, museums, birding and more near Paradise, Michigan.
Tahquamenon Falls State Park is not only one of Michigan’s most iconic natural landmarks, but it's also among the most accessible. Featuring barrier-free trails, ADA-compliant viewing platforms and thoughtfully designed campgrounds, the park provides inclusive access to the thunderous Upper Falls, the tranquil island cascades of the Lower Falls and the lush forested areas in between. Accessibility doesn't stop at the park’s edges either; nearby destinations enhance the experience with wheelchair-friendly boardwalks, exhibits and nature trails. Whether you're drawn by the waterfalls, Lake Superior’s shoreline or vibrant bird migrations, this corner of the Upper Peninsula proves that unforgettable outdoor adventures can be fully inclusive.
The core of Tahquamenon Falls State Park centers on its twin natural wonders. At the Upper Falls, Michigan’s largest waterfall and the second most voluminous east of the Mississippi, water plunges nearly 50 feet across a span exceeding 200 feet. The route from the parking lot to the overlook is paved and wheelchair-friendly, offering direct, barrier-free access to an ADA viewing platform. Currently, work is underway on a new 900-foot accessible boardwalk to replace the aging stairway descending to the brink. This path will wind through the old-growth forest and offer panoramic views of both the falls and the river. All other overlooks, including three upper platforms, remain open during construction, which began in October 2024 and is projected for completion around August 2025.
Any mobility-challenged visitors can borrow a track chair to explore the park. These electric, off-road chairs are available on a first-come, first-served basis at no cost and can drive through snow, sand and up to eight inches of water. To reserve a track chair, contact @TQFalls through Facebook Messenger or call the park office at (906) 492-3415 .
About four miles downstream, the Lower Falls provide a more serene experience, with five smaller cascades framing a forested island. Enhancing accessibility, the Ronald A. Olson Island Bridge now spans the rapids, connecting to a 350-foot boardwalk and a half-mile barrier-free trail on the island, complete with benches and scenic viewpoints. Visitors who prefer traditional methods can still reach the island via rowboat. Together, these accessible features reveal the park’s commitment to opening its iconic landscapes to all.
For your convenience, a shuttle service runs daily between the two falls from mid-June to Labor Day. Ask the park office for details.
Located near the Upper Falls, the Tahquamenon Falls Brewery & Pub offers hearty meals, craft beers and a cozy lodge atmosphere in a fully accessible setting. With wide entryways, spacious dining areas and attentive service, it provides a unique opportunity to enjoy a craft brewery experience right inside a state park — perfect for relaxing after your explorations.
Before leaving, visit the Camp 33 Gift Shop. Its shelves and racks are a treasure trove of everything from quality apparel to shoes, jewelry, art and souvenirs. If you need assistance with anything, please ask the staff.
Just north of Tahquamenon Falls, the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum at Whitefish Point delves into Lake Superior’s rich maritime history. The facility includes accessible exhibits, paved walkways and barrier-free entrances and restrooms. Highlights include the SS Edmund Fitzgerald bell and a broad selection of shipwreck artifacts.
To protect dune ecosystems, a boardwalk gives accessible shoreline access, while stairs at the end grant beach access for those who want to walk on the sand. Visitors can enjoy views of Lake Superior and shipping activity from an accessible deck.
Adjacent to the Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum, the Whitefish Point Bird Observatory is a major migration hotspot recognized as a Globally Important Bird Area. With over 340 species recorded, WPBO highlights Lake Superior’s importance in bird migration. A handicap-accessible boardwalk winds through dune and swale habitat, making birding accessible to all. From there, you can see bald eagles, sandhill cranes, warblers, flycatchers and more, set against expansive views.
Located in Newberry, the Tahquamenon Logging Museum offers a glimpse into the region's timber heritage. Many of its historic buildings, gift shop and riverside boardwalk are accessible, though some areas — such as the Cook Shack — may not be fully accessible. Still, most visitors can enjoy the exhibits and scenic setting with ease. For information on upcoming activities, refer to their events page.
Almost all of the places listed above are comfortable places to visit if you or a traveling companion needs low to high stimulation. The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum does play music throughout much of your time in the building. Check with each spot before coming to make sure it will meet your level of stimulation needs.
For immersive stays under the stars, the Rivermouth and Lower Falls Campgrounds at Tahquamenon Falls State Park feature ADA-compliant campsites, accessible restrooms, campfire rings, picnic areas and playgrounds. These sites also connect via barrier-free trails to park attractions, offering family-friendly environments for stargazing, hiking and outdoor storytelling.
Accessible parking, rooms and gathering spaces are available at our lodgings in Newberry, just minutes from Tahquamenon Country adventures. Several offer complimentary breakfasts and are within a short drive of restaurants. Call the property before making reservations to ensure they have the accessibility and sensory-friendly accommodations you are seeking.
