North Michigan News

The Michigan House approved a resolution on April 24, 2024, to urge the state park status for Houghton-Douglass Falls. State Rep. Greg Markkanen, R-Hancock, led the effort, with the resolution aiming to designate Houghton-Douglass Falls as the Houghton-Douglass Falls Veterans Scenic Site, a unit of the McLain State Park.

Speaking on the floor, Markkanen expressed his support for the resolution, stating, "It’s time we honor that agreement and include this iconic and beautiful area in Michigan’s system of State Parks and Scenic Areas." He emphasized the importance of recognizing the area's beauty and historical significance, adding, “In doing so, we can pair the celebration of our rich natural resources with honoring all the brave and courageous individuals who served and sacrificed in our military.”

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources purchased the 70-acre site in 2018 from a Vietnam veteran who intended for the park to be dedicated in honor of Michigan’s veterans. The primary goal of acquiring the property was to preserve the area and transform it into a park, with the Houghton-Douglass waterfall, the tallest in Michigan, being a significant feature of the site.