Frequently Asked Questions about the hike
from Upper to Lower Falls
Q. Where do I buy my tickets?
A. Tickets are purchased online or from the Driver.
Q. How long is the hike?
A. Although the signs in the park say the Upper to Lower Falls hike is 4 miles, if you add in the walking to and from the signs, it is closer to six. Doubling back means almost twelve miles. Do you have twelve miles in you?
Q. How long will it take me to hike it?
A. Depends. If you run, it could take you half an hour. If you take your sweet time, you could be out there all day. A conditioned hikers will most likely take just under two hours to hike. A family with small children could take four hours.
Q. What time does the 1:00PM shuttle leave?
A. 1:00PM.
Q. How difficult is the hike?
A. Although there are some climbs and descents, most of the trail is rolling as it parallels the Tahquamenon River. Keep in mind you will be walking UPHILL from Lower to Upper Falls.
Q. I have a large family/group, there is no way we all can fit in your vehicle.
A. All it takes is one person, the driver of your party, to ride the shuttle back to the starting point. Then, they will drive back to pick up the group.
Q. I'm standing by the "Meet Your Shuttle Here" sign. Is this where we meet the shuttle?
A. Yes.
Q. Can I spot my vehicle first?
A. Absolutely! In fact, this the best way to hike and use the shuttle. Leave your group at the starting point, and drive your vehicle to the Tahqua Trekker staging point. Leave your vehicle, and ride the shuttle back to your group. Hike, take your time, knowing your vehicle is where you will end.
Q. Is there any seating priorty?
A. Most days, there isn't a wait. When there are more persons than seats, priority is given by those who were there first, or, best attitutide.
Q. We arrived at 3:05PM and I don't see the shuttle. Where are you?
A. We left at 3:00PM.
Q. What will you do if I've bought a ticket and I turn around? Do I get a refund? Can I use it another day?
A. Your ticket will be honored another day in the calendar year it was purchased. Sorry, no refunds.
Q. What are the sticks on the side of the road for?
A. Yoopers stick those in the ground so you'll ask "what are those sticks for"
Q. Where is the staging area?
A. In the RV parking lot at Upper Falls and by the first overlook, nearest the concession area, at lower falls. Look for the "Meet your Shuttle Here" signs.
Q. What about child seats/booster seats?
A. We'll do our best to have seats on hand but we are limited by space so keep that in mind. We'd encourage you to spot your vehicle first and use the shuttle so you can walk to your car.
Q. Can you accomodate bikes? Backpacks? Strollers?
A. The park prohibits bikes on the trail. The trail is not suited for strollers. We have very limited space for gear.
Q. Can dogs ride?
A. Well behaved dogs ride for free as long as no human riders are allergic and are ok with sharing a ride with a furry passenger!
