The upper and lower falls of the Tahquamenon River are about four miles apart. The rugged River Trail runs between them them but most visitors chose to drive to each of them. The upper falls is 200 feet across with a drop of almost 50 feet. The amber color is caused by tannin that leaches from the trees growing in the swamps upstream. The lower falls is a series of smaller falls with opportunities to get into the water which is a popular activity even though signs warn against it. Both are worth visiting.
A paved trail at the upper falls leads to a viewing deck. Much better views can be had by following the trails to the left or right of the deck but both of these trails have steps so the viewing areas are not accessible.
The lower falls has a trail that’s part asphalt and part boardwalk. Views of the lower falls are better than the view of the upper falls but some of the decks have high railings that block the view. This is the beginning of the River Trail and is accessible for about 1/3 of a mile.
As I have seen a few times before, cutting down a small tree and bush would make the view for a person in a wheelchair much more enjoyable. WHY they won't consider this is beyond me. I wrote the Superintendent at Yellowstone a few years ago about a few of their sites and non-access to a few trails which could easily handle a car with a handicap placard (at Yosemite they have such an option) and got NO RESPONSE.
ReplyDeleteCutting a small tree or bush would make the view in many places better for everyone! We've stopped at scenic view overlooks that were so overgrown that we couldn't see anything but tree. :-D
DeleteFor a short time I was writing to offer suggestions on how to improve access at the places that we visit but I haven't done that much lately. I should start up again - squeaky wheel ya know. I did get responses from about 1/4 of the people.
I'm fairly short (prob 5'1"), and we've been to overlooks and vistas with trees so tall there is no vista! Some are so overgrown, you can't see the view from a vehicle. Looks like the people in charge are falling down on the job or jobs. How in the world is a kid or you in a wheelchair supposed to see what the view has to offer?
ReplyDeleteBTW, I meant to say the falls are gorgeous. Thanks for showing us!
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