Swimming Holes in Michigan

Michigan's Upper Peninsula has the clearest freshwater in the state. The Tahquamenon River above the lower falls has amber tannin water and canoe-access swimming in the state forest. Lake of the Clouds in the Porcupine Mountains is cold alpine water with a scenic overlook trail. The eastern UP lakes near Paradise have sandy-bottom swimming in the Lake Superior watershed. The Lower Peninsula has Great Lakes beach swimming but limited interior swimming hole geography — the rivers in the Irish Hills and the Huron-Manistee National Forest have informal access points.

Always check current conditions before visiting — water levels, algae advisories, and access roads change seasonally. Never swim alone in remote sites. Tell someone your plans. Explore all swimming holes on the Trek4Free map →