September 26, 2014

Tahquamenon Falls

Our morning started off backtracking to Tahquamenon Falls. We were running late yesterday afternoon and decided to go back this morning so we would have more time to enjoy the falls. They are beautiful any time of year, but the fall colors add another dimension.  The tannin (root beer color) in the water adds another touch to Mother Nature’s art work.

Tahquamenon Falls

From the parking lot, it is about 1/2 mile to the falls; however, the roar can be heard long before you arrive. The trail winds through a hemlock forest that dates back over 250 years. As you approach the first overlook the roar of the water has intensified. A water flow of over 52,000 gallons per second has been recorded.

 

The falls are even more dramatic after you travel down the 94 steps to the viewing platform located at the edge of the falls.

 

Upon leaving the area, we traveled on the White Fish Point Scenic Highway along Lake Superior.

White Fish Point Scenic Highway

The water in Lake Superior is one or two feet higher this year due to the high snows and thick ice on the lakes during the winter. The ice prevents evaporation and results in higher water levels.

An area along the Scenic Highway is noted for its shallow water and rocks that can be seen above the water. Now, due to the increased water level, only three rocks are visible.

The Shallows

Our next stop was at Point Iroquois Lighthouse. This was the first Michigan lighthouse we visited on our trip through the area in 2008. It is very visitor friendly and manned by very knowledgeable volunteers.

Point Iroquois

Next we headed to Bay Mills, MI to try our hand at the slot machines. In previous years we have managed to help “keep the lights on and pay the employees”. Today turned out to be a little different…we departed with nearly our entire bankroll!  We also smelled as though we needed a shower…the casino has more than its share of smokers. Nasty!

Park Across From Motel

Our home for the next four nights in Sault Ste. Marie is a “mom and pop” motel in the middle of the of the business district. We have always stayed on the outskirts in a chain hotel; but, this offers an opportunity to be near the Soo Locks, and watch the ships which require passage to and from Lake Superior and Lake Huron.