Tahquamenon boardwalk opened a step-free route to the falls’ brink

An accessible boardwalk opened at Michigan's Upper Tahquamenon Falls on May 14, 2026, replacing a 94-step staircase to the brink. DNR's May 18 bulletin documented the Thursday opening: a specific access barrier removed for wheelchair users seeking the close-up platform. ^[1]

The 1,100-foot forest route has five switchback landings with benches. DNR identified a trade-off: the walk or roll could take up to half an hour longer than the staircase journey, depending on stops, even as the route became easier. ^[1]

For planning, the park's undated visitor reference still identifies the new boardwalk as complete. It also lists three accessible Upper Falls viewing platforms along a paved path and accessible restrooms in that day-use area. Together, these details help distinguish the new approach to the brink from other existing places to view the falls. They do not constitute a guarantee that every trail or facility in this large park is accessible. ^[2]

The Upper and Lower Falls are separate destinations: the visitor reference puts the Lower Falls four miles downstream. At the Lower Falls it describes a half-mile accessible boardwalk and an island bridge. Visitors deciding how much to attempt can therefore separate two sets of viewpoints, rather than treating the new Upper Falls route as a connection between the waterfalls. The park reference also identifies accessible picnic areas at both day-use areas. ^[2]

Equipment is another part of access. DNR's current track-chair page lists two chairs at the Upper and Lower Falls day-use areas. They are first come, first served from July 1 through October 15; for May 1 through June 30 and October 16 through November 10, DNR asks visitors to call or email, with at least 24 hours' notice appreciated. Its undated chair guide describes borrowing without charge and makes an assistance boundary explicit: a companion must provide transfer help if needed. Service animals must remain under the handler's or companion's control. ^{[3] [4]}

The completed structure and the available equipment answer different travel questions. The park's continued completion notice supports the opening's follow-through, while the chair guide explains borrowing and transfer arrangements. Neither source establishes chair availability for a particular arrival or reports visitor-use outcomes since opening. DNR lists the park office at 906-492-3415, a practical contact for checking arrangements before relying on them. ^{[2] [3]}

About this item: Retrospective report. No first-hand reporting or independent testing is claimed. Corrections policy.