Torch Lake offers a little piece of the Caribbean to Michigan, with incredibly clear waters that change from green to fiery gold to deep turquoise. The gorgeous sunsets and stunning views are a sight to behold. For partygoers, the 4th of July party at Torch Lake Sandbar can rival those on the best Caribbean beaches. There are plenty of fun things to do, from swimming, boating, and snorkeling to camping and hiking. In fact, many travel publications have praised its stunning beauty!
Torch Lake has many public access points along its shoreline, most of which are street ends. Stretching for miles, Torch Lake is one of the longest inland lakes in Michigan. It's also the second-largest inland lake in Michigan. Not yet convinced? Here’s our Torch Lake visitors guide, complete with activities, places to stay, and interesting trivia.
17 Reasons to Visit Torch Lake
1. It’s One of the Most Beautiful Lakes in the World
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Photo by Mark Cameron on Flickr[/caption]
Torch Lake isn’t just among the most stunning lakes in Northern Michigan. And with the lake’s crystal clear waters comparable to the Caribbean, it’s hard to argue why. This Michigan lake has become a favorite place for a weekend with family and friends for many other reasons. Swim the blue-green waters, ride a kayak, or set up a beach tent. There are simply many fun and exciting things to enjoy in and around this beautiful lake.
2. It’s a Playground for Water Sports Enthusiasts
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Photo by Mark Cameron on Flickr[/caption]
Torch Lake is more than just pretty sights and lively parties. Swimming and snorkeling in the crystal clear waters are among the best experiences here—you can see your toes! Motorized sports are popular in these Michigan waters, from ski boats to jet skis. Canoeing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, or kayaking offer a more relaxed way to cruise. Beginners can join sailing lessons guided by experts. Don’t have your own boat? Many facilities offer Torch Lake boat rentals. It’s also the second-largest inland lake in Michigan, and many travel publications have praised its stunning beauty.
3. It Offers Plenty of Fishing Opportunities
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Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash[/caption]
Similar to other Michigan lakes, Torch Lake offers plenty of fishing opportunities for anglers. The waters are swarming with a variety of fish species, primarily lake trout, smallmouth bass, and Atlantic salmon. That said, don’t forget to bring your best fishing rods and other fishing equipment. Don’t have your own gear? Not a problem! You can find several facilities that rent out fishing equipment. Meanwhile, if you prefer a guided fishing trip, you can book a fishing charter that will take you out into the lake’s open waters.
4. It Has an Awesome Sandbar
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Photo by Mark Cameron on Flickr[/caption]
Apart from its turquoise waters, Torch Lake is most famous for its two-mile sandbar. The shallow sandbars, where colorful boats and flocks of tourists abound during summer, can be found at the south end and are a favorite location for raucous summer parties. Fourth of July parties are some of the most awaited events at Torch Lake Sandbar, where both tourists and locals spend the whole day out in the sun. A breathtaking fireworks show concludes the annual festivities. Besides partying, the sandbar is a great starting point for boating, water skiing, and other water sports. The depth falls steeply from the sandbar, turning the water into a beautiful deep blue. For those planning a trip, checking a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy is a helpful way to compare climates before booking summer travel.
5. It Has Many Public Access Points
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Photo by Mark Cameron on Flickr[/caption]
Is Torch Lake Michigan publicly accessible? For such a beautiful and famous lake, it is easily accessible to the public. Anyone can enjoy the natural beauty of this gem! Whether you’re coming from Eastport in Antrim County or Forest Home Township, getting to the lake is a breeze. Just be sure to bring a pair of water shoes, as many of these access points can be quite rocky. Meanwhile, boating enthusiasts can launch their vessels on several nearby boat launch ramps around the lake, including the ones located on the south side of Eastport.
6. It Is a Great Place to Camp
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Photo by Mark Cameron on Flickr[/caption]
Torch Lake camping is an extremely popular activity for many visitors. After all, who wouldn’t want to fall asleep under the stars and wake up to the gentle sound of lapping waves and the sunrise? As such, pack your camping gear and essentials and experience sleeping surrounded by the lake’s refreshing atmosphere. Whether you like to set up a tent, camp on the boat, or do it RV style, you can find plenty of Torch Lake campground sites to spend the night on.
Some of the nearby tent campgrounds include Chain O’Lakes, Honcho Rest Campground, and Barnes Park. Meanwhile, Torch Grove Campground’s RV park is exclusive for motorhomes, trailers, and truck campers. This campground offers 54 spacious full hook-up sites complete with Wi-Fi and cable access. There is also a bathhouse with five toilets and seven showers for your convenience.
7. It Is Huge and Long—Plenty of Space for Different Activities
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Photo by Notorious4life on Wikimedia Commons[/caption]
What’s more, it has a maximum depth of nearly 300 feet. Due to its size, this famous lake in Michigan is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. From watersports such as wakeboarding, waterskiing, and jet skiing to land-based activities like hiking and biking, there’s no shortage of fun things to do on Torch Lake!
8. It’s a Cyclists Paradise
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Photo by F. D. Richards on Flickr[/caption]
If you aren’t too keen on watersports, ride a bike and explore the lightly traveled roads surrounding the lake—an opportunity to take in the scenic views of farms and orchards. The lake has beautiful and easy bike trails nestled between rolling hills and lush forests with colorful wildflowers. If you need to refuel, there are great food stop options along the way. For bike rentals, head over to Brick Wheels and Revolution Bike Shop. Both shops offer a variety of bikes available for rent, including mountain, tandem, and fat-tire bikes.
9. It Has Endless Hiking Trails
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Photo by Pat (Cletch) Williams on Flickr[/caption]
To enjoy nature more, walk and hike the various trails around Torch Lake. From easy to more vigorous paths, there’s a perfect trail to suit your skills. Some of these trails can be found within the Grass River Nature Area, which boasts 1,100 acres of forest, lakes, rivers, and open meadows. Another notable spot for hiking is the Torch Lake Nature Preserve. While this preserve offers a smaller area for hiking—stretching around 95 acres—it does provide visitors with seasonal views of the lake. What’s more, you can bring along furry companions with you during your hike. Just note that they must be kept on leashes at all times. Many travel publications have praised its stunning beauty, and the area also offers access to some of the top 10 National and State parks to see in the region.
10. You Can Experience the Thrill of Skydiving
[caption id="attachment_132918" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Photo from Skydive Charlevoix official Facebook page[/caption]
For the more adventurous souls, take in the beauty of Torch Lake and the rest of Northern Michigan from above! Jump out of a plane by yourself or with a partner and freefall at 120 mph with Skydive Charlevoix. This exhilarating experience will offer you amazing sights of the lake from a bird's-eye view. Both novice jumpers and experienced ones are welcome. First-timers are encouraged to try tandem skydiving. Professional trainers guide you and ensure your experience is fun, safe, and memorable. Don’t forget to bring your GoPro or the best GoPro alternative to get video to show your friends and family.
11. It Has Nearby Golf Courses
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Photo by Rachel Kramer on Flickr[/caption]
Another land-based activity you can take part in while at Torch Lake is hitting a hole in one at one of the nearby golf courses. Among them is A-Ga-Ming, a 72-hole golf course resort. Nestled between the shores of Torch Lake and Lake Michigan, it provides guests with scenic views of the lakes’ banks. It’s home to three courses that offer challenging yet fun experiences for both beginners and pro players. If you’re a true novice, you can book golf lessons with professional coaches.
12. You Can Hit the Tables at the Casinos
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Photo from Turtle Creek Casino official website[/caption]
Most people don’t typically include gambling when planning a lakeside getaway. If you’re feeling lucky, though, drop by one of the nearby casinos. At the south end of the lake, Turtle Creek Casino features a 56,000-square-foot floor with over 1,000 slot and video poker machines, plus blackjack, craps, and roulette tables. Up north, Odawa Casino offers nearly 1,000 slot machines, dozens of table games, and a poker room, along with an entertainment venue hosting regular live bands and DJs. For those planning a trip around the seasons, check out a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy to time your visit perfectly.
13. You Can Visit it All Year-Round
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Photo by Joel Gaff on Unsplash[/caption]
Northern Michigan is famous for its comfortable weather, particularly in spring and fall. During winter, it can get extremely snowy and windy. Nevertheless, Torch Lake is among the year-round attractions in the state. The lake is so deep that even in summer it stays quite cold, perfect for escaping sweltering heat. Due to its size, it usually doesn’t freeze in winter, allowing you to enjoy its waters no matter the season. For winter activities, head to Shanty Creek Resort for cross-country skiing, sledding, and snowboarding. Visiting in autumn lets you witness the beautiful fall foliage surrounding the lake, which further brings out the beauty of its turquoise waters.
14. The Dining Experience Is Divine
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Photo from Torch Lake Cafe's official Facebook page[/caption]
Want to enjoy a meal while overlooking Torch Lake’s pristine waters? Head over to Torch Lake Cafe. Since 2015, this cafe has been a favorite for locals and tourists for good food in an inviting atmosphere. Locals keep coming back for its vibrant music scene and nightlife with live entertainment, plus a wide selection of drinks. Guests at Torch Lake Bed and Breakfast enjoy fresh, homemade breakfasts.
For a romantic dining experience, try The Dockside, a boat-to-dinner restaurant at the mouth of Clam River, famous for unobstructed sunset views. Boaters can pull right up to eat. Other excellent options include Blue Pelican, Shorts Brewery, The Rowe Inn, Stafford’s Weathervane, and Pearl’s New Orleans Kitchen.
15. There’s Fun Shopping to Do
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Photo from Adams Madams official Facebook page[/caption]
When visiting this Michigan lake, make sure to bring home some souvenir items to remember the experience. Adams Madams is a great shopping option for some local artworks, handmade crafts, bags, books, and other fun items. Whether you’re looking for trendy items or unique antique pieces, Torch Lake is home to a variety of shops for your pleasure.
If you’re visiting with the family, make sure to swing by Brownwood Acres. Famous for dried cherries, chocolate-covered cherries, and other cherry-related items, Brownwood is a great stop for families. Aside from that, there’s a tearoom where you can enjoy a light lunch overlooking a porch. On Sundays, there is a flea market for everyone to enjoy and shop for locally made goods. On top of that, there’s a candy counter for kids and those with a sweet tooth!
Meanwhile, the King Orchards Farmers Market is the place to see for some fresh produce shopping. From seasonal products, cheese items, a selection of wine, and fresh seafood, you’ll be happy to spend hours here.
Aside from that, Torch Lake Michigan is also home to several malls and department stores. Get all your department store needs at Grand Traverse Mall. To get there, head to the south end of Traverse City. Other great shopping centers and boutiques are The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, The Pear Tree, Bachmann’s Store, and Stuff & Such among others.
16. It’s Among the Best Lakes in Michigan to Live On
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Photo by full frame on Flickr[/caption]
Looking to invest in a vacation home? Torch Lake is among the best lakes in Michigan to live on. Take note, however, that owning real estate property around this Michigan lake is very expensive. Prices of homes on the east side are said to be ridiculously high. Nevertheless, with its Caribbean blue waters and legendary sandbar, its waterfront living at its finest. You can find a number of waterside properties ranging from charming cottages to grand homes.
17. It’s Very Safe and Family-Friendly
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Photo by Deb Nystrom on Flickr[/caption]
Torch Lake may be a popular party spot, but don’t let this put you off. The lake hosts sandbar parties, but it is also an ideal place for family trips. The surrounding towns are beautiful and safe. You can bring your kids and enjoy walking around the streets or stop by great Torch Lake restaurants and cafes after swimming.
The neighborhood and people in Torch Lake are warm and welcoming to visitors. They celebrate a summer festival every year, with delicious food, street games, and magic shows. Every 4th of July, there’s a massive fireworks show over the south end of the lake. This makes a 4th of July family getaway more special.
Places to Stay on Torch Lake
Spending a day on Torch Lake is a good idea, but staying overnight is better. Here are your options for the best Torch Lake hotels and vacation rentals around the area.
(Take note that prices per night depend on the season and are subject to change without prior notice.)
Whether you prefer a lakeside resort or a cozy rental, you’ll find accommodations that suit your stay—just be sure to plan ahead, especially if you’re also looking to secure a reservation at Rao's NYC for a post-trip meal.
1. Torch Lake Bed and Breakfast
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Photo from the Torch Lake Bed and Breakfast official website[/caption]
Address: 4417 Trillium Ridge, Central Lake, MI 49622
Price: Starts at USD 460 per night
Located in Central Lake, the Torch Lake Bed and Breakfast is a beachfront property with rooms that include a king-sized bed, private bathroom, free Wi-Fi, a heating blanket, and a sound machine. Some rooms have fireplaces and private or shared decks. Guests receive coffee and tea alongside a complimentary breakfast. The inn also provides kayaks, paddleboards, and snorkeling and fishing equipment. Guests with their own boat can use the inn’s mooring service.
2. The Legend Cottage Inn
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Photo from The Legend Cottage Inn Booking.com page[/caption]
Address: 5820 Shanty Creek Road, Bellaire, MI 49615
Price: Starts at USD 137 per night
Planning to bring your furry companion along with you to Torch Lake? Consider staying at The Legend Cottage Inn. For a small additional fee of USD 20, you can bring a four-legged friend and get access to the inn’s clean and comfortable rooms. Moreover, the inn is one of the places to stay in Michigan that has no weight limit for dogs. Guest rooms have either two queen-sized beds, two double beds, or one king-sized bed. All rooms feature amenities such as a private bathroom, a flat-screen TV, a mini-fridge, and a microwave. Guests also get access to the inn’s outdoor seasonal pool, which is typically open throughout the summer months. Besides the outdoor swimming pool, there are also two indoor pools, one of which is heated. Furthermore, its location is a favorite among travelers who want to enjoy the lake and the nearby golf course and ski resorts.
3. Grand Victorian B&B Inn
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Photo from Grand Victorian B&B Inn Booking.com page[/caption]
Address: 402 N. Bridge St., Bellaire MI 49615
Price: Starts at USD 125 per night
Step back in time when you enter this grand Victorian-style bed-and-breakfast. Built in 1895, the Grand Victorian B&B Inn is home to six suites adorned with antique decorations and furniture. Some rooms feature four-poster antique beds and fireplaces, ideal for romantic getaways. Each room has a unique atmosphere with different amenities. The lush terrace garden and seasonal flowers provide a romantic spot. In the morning, you’ll wake up to a gourmet breakfast made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with options for vegetarian guests. All meals are plated on china and crystal. For fun, head to the lake, go golfing, or explore downtown Bellaire.
4. Torch Lake Home
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Photo from Torch Lake Home Booking.com page[/caption]
Address: Rapid City, 49676, United States
Price: Starts at USD 1,429 for two nights
On the hunt for Torch Lake rentals? Torch Lake Home is a 2,260 square-foot real estate property that offers 116-feet worth of waterfront access. This accommodation offers four spacious bedrooms, a kitchen, a laundry area, and a wide lawn that overlooks the lake. It is the perfect choice for families and large groups who want a bigger and more private space that doesn’t lack fun activities and picturesque views. Located in Rapid City, its nearby attractions besides Torch Lake include several restaurants, vineyards, ski resorts, and the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park, one of the top 10 National and State parks to see.
5. Rustic Northern Retreat
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Photo from Rustic Northern Retreat Booking.com page[/caption]
Address: Bellaire, 49615, United States
Price: Starts at USD 1,431 for three nights
This rustic vacation home in Bellaire is one of the Torch Lake rentals ideal for large groups. It has five bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a laundry area. Each bedroom has a flat-screen TV with cable channels and an en suite bathroom. It has a dedicated game room with a shuffleboard, foosball table, basketball hoop, and an NBA arcade machine. Outdoors, you’ll find a patio, balcony, and dining area with a barbecue grill. Other amenities include a fireplace, heated pool, hot tub, sauna, and tennis court.
6. Elk Rapids Lakeshore Inn
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Photo from Elk Rapids Lakeshore Inn Booking.com page[/caption]
Address: 10962 US Highway 31Elk Rapids, Mi 49690
Price: Starts at USD 119 per night
Looking for no-frills Torch Lake vacation rentals? Surrounded by a parklike setting, the 12 quaint rooms at the Elk Rapids Lakeshore Inn provide guests with a cozy and comfortable place to stay in. It offers air-conditioned rooms with either one king-sized bed or two queen beds. Each room has a private bathroom, a seating area, a flat-screen TV, and free Wi-Fi. Bringing an infant? You can request a cot or crib if you don’t have your own travel bassinet. Other highlights are its private beach area and garden. You can also easily enjoy a snack at the outdoor dining area with barbecue grills for cooking your own meal.
7. Shanty Creek Resort
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Photo from Shanty Creek Resort official website[/caption]
Address: 5780 Shanty Creek Road Bellaire, MI 49615
Price: Starts at USD 119 per night
Spanning 5,500 acres, Shanty Creek Resort is one of the largest Torch Lake resorts. It offers over 400 accommodation options across four villages. Schuss Village and Cedar River Village are great for ski and snowboarding enthusiasts, with steps to Schuss Mountain. Hawk’s Eye village is home to the resort’s state-of-the-art golf course. Summit Village, the original Shanty Creek, has a tubing park and two golf courses, plus the majority of accommodations—from studios to three-bedroom condos. The wellness spa, fitness center, and conference center are also in Summit Village.
8. Torch Lake Lodge
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Photo from Torch Lake Lodge official website[/caption]
Address: 11501 Apple Valley Dr, Rapid City, MI 49676
Price: Starts at USD 3,500 per week
Just off the shores of the lake, this lodge is one of the Torch Lake cabin rentals perfect for families and large groups. Torch Lake Lodge is a three-story weekly rental that stretches across 3,400 square feet and boasts five bedrooms, five bathrooms, and a gaming room equipped with ping-pong, billiard, and foosball tables. There’s even a heated indoor pool, perfect for night swims or during rainy days. If weather permits, you can spend the night under the stars with family and friends while huddled around the firepit outdoors. Additionally, you get stunning views of the turquoise waters of Torch Lake and its wooded surroundings.
9. The Inn at Torch Lake
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Photo from Inn at Torch Lake official website[/caption]
Address: 9076 Helena Rd, Alden, MI 49612
Price: Starts at USD 225 per night
With only five suites available, welcoming an intimate number of guests, you are guaranteed a serene stay at this Torch Lake inn. Situated in the quaint town of Alden, the Inn at Torch Lake is only a short walk from the lake. All rooms are named after lakes in Northern Michigan, and each one has its own unique style and decor to reflect its namesake. However, all of them are still equipped with luxurious amenities, such as a fireplace, a wide-screen TV, a private bar, and a private deck. Depending on which room you book, you’ll either get a wet bar, kitchenette, or even a full gourmet kitchen area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Torch Lake
Where is Torch Lake Located?
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Photo by marada on Flickr[/caption]
Torch Lake is nestled in the township of Antrim County in Michigan, USA. It sits just about 27 kilometers northeast of Traverse City. Its neighboring communities include Central Lake, Forest Home, Helena, and Milton.
How Do You Get to Torch Lake?
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Photo by full frame on Flickr[/caption]
Coming in from Detroit? Torch Lake is approximately 357 kilometers away from the capital. Here are the easiest directions to get you to this Michigan lake.
If you’re on a budget, driving from Detroit to the lake is a better option. Take Interstate 75 from Detroit then exit at Grayling to get to Torch Lake. The driving distance is 420 kilometers and travel time takes around four to five hours depending on traffic and season. Driving from Detroit will cost about USD 25 to USD 40.
The quickest way is by taking a flight from Detroit Airport to Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse City. Travel time takes only an hour and flights are around USD 150. From Traverse City, you can take a cab which will take another 45 minutes to reach the lake. This may be more expensive, but it is perfect for those who want to get there immediately and make the most out of their time.
Why Is Torch Lake So Clear?
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Photo by Paladin27 on Flickr[/caption]
The clarity comes from the lake’s bottom sediments, which are primarily calcium carbonate. Combined with low organic content, nothing darkens the water, giving it that crystal-clear look. Caribbean waters share a similar limestone composition with low organic content.
However, golden-brown algae blooms have appeared in some parts of the lake, making the water murky. This is caused by foreign nutrients from septic systems and fertilizer runoff. Local organizations are working to restore and preserve the crystal-clear waters by discouraging lakeside fertilizer use and improving septic system maintenance. Many believe these efforts will return the turquoise waters to their original, pristine state.
Is It Safe to Swim in Torch Lake?
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Photo by Jen van Kaam on Flickr[/caption]
With that said, you may wonder if it is safe to swim in Torch Lake. While many consider the golden-brown algae blooms a nuisance to the pristine beauty of the lake, it is actually a form of non-harmful algae and not dangerous to humans. Of course, it’s understandable if you may not want to swim in the particular areas affected by it, though.
Despite this, there are still several unaffected areas of Torch Lake that remain clear and are still favorable spots for swimming and other water-based activities. Aside from that, the sandbars around the lake provide great areas to relax, play, and wade. As long as guests follow safety precautions, swimming in Torch Lake will be a safe and enjoyable experience.
Does Torch Lake Have a Beach?
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Photo by Deb Nystrom on Flickr[/caption]
Yes, but Torch Lake beaches are not the typical white sand beaches you imagine. Instead, these public beaches are rocky and not exactly the best places to swim in. For a more picturesque beach outing, the nearby Lake Michigan might be a better option.
How to Get to Torch Lake Sandbar?
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Photo by marada on Flickr[/caption]
Found on the southern edge, you will have to take a boat to reach Torch Lake Sandbar as it is a few hundred meters away from the main shores.
How Deep Is Torch Lake in Michigan?
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Photo by Scott Smithson on Flickr[/caption]
Torch Lake is Michigan’s deepest inland lake with an average depth of 111 feet and a maximum depth of 285 feet.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Torch Lake?
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Photo by Scott Smithson on Flickr[/caption]
If you are a party lover, there is no better time to visit the lake than its annual 4th of July bash at Torch Lake Sandbar. Meanwhile, if you’re planning to head to Torch Lake for a swim, the best time to visit will be from July to September when the waters are warmer. For those planning a longer trip, a month-by-month guide to the weather in Italy might help you compare climates, but here the summer months are ideal for water activities.
Is Torch Lake Part of Lake Michigan?
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Photo by Elise Coates on Unsplash[/caption]
Torch Lake was once part of the larger Lake Michigan. However, it separated upon the formation of the famous sandbar. Nonetheless, the lake is still part of the Elk River Chain of Lakes Watershed, a waterway that includes 14 lakes and rivers that empty into Lake Michigan.
Is It Possible to Ride a Boat From Lake Bellaire to Torch Lake?
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Photo by marada on Flickr[/caption]
Sitting on the east side of Lake Michigan is Lake Bellaire. If you’re vacationing in Lake Bellaire, you can swing by the lake or other nearby bodies of water. Small boats can and are allowed to navigate most of the Lower Chain lakes. These lakes include Lake Bellaire, Clam Lake, Torch Lake, Lake Skegemog, and Elk Lake near Elk Rapids.
Interesting Trivia About Torch Lake
- Among the lakes in the Elk River Chain of Lakes Watershed, Torch Lake is the biggest and bluest.
- Its name is derived from the native word “Waswaaganing.” In English, it translates to “lake of the torches.”
- Torch Lake could have been a part of Lake Michigan. Interestingly, a sandbar formed in between, separating the two.
- The Chain of Lakes supplies 60% of the surface water of Grand Traverse Bay.
- The crystal-clear waters of the lake are not just for picturesque views. The pristine waters also help Common Loon, a popular swimming bird in the area, hunt better and easier.
- The waves in this lake can be friendly to challenging, and surfers would be happy to know that the waves here can reach over four feet high.
- Torch Lake Michigan is so massive that it doesn’t freeze even during winter. Its vast volume allows it to store a lot of heat.
- Famous personalities and celebrities express how they adore this lake in Michigan. Singer Kid Rock’s hit song “All Summer Long” has lyrics describing the lake, especially its sandbar. Other celebrities who call Torch Lake their home include Michael Moore and Eminem.
Enjoy a Slice of Caribbean Paradise at Torch Lake
You don’t need to travel far to experience crystal waters. Right in the heart of Northern Michigan, Torch Lake offers a piece of Caribbean paradise. Imagine pristine and deep waters, amazing sandbars, delicious meals by the dock, and other exciting activities to enjoy. All these and more make Torch Lake a perfect cheap weekend getaway with family and friends!
