It is located in Grand Traverse County and sandwiched between Silver Lake and Long Lake in Traverse City. Seeking even more fun along the shore? Swimmers and boaters on Torch Lake are constantly wowed by sparkling views of summer sun reflecting off the water. There was a lot of information on the internet, but we always spent hours searching for it. Take a picnic to Colonial Point Memorial Forest and Burt Lake State Park. Bass Lake, a 344-acre glacial lake, is the perfect place to relax and escape the bustling atmosphere of downtown Traverse City. Go on to explore the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail, composed of over 20 wineries and Best Wine Region nominee by USA Todays 10 Best Readers Choice Travel Award Contest. California/Nevada. Mullett Lake has something for everyone, whether you want to relax or go on an exciting outdoor adventure. Surrounded by stunning wilderness, youll want to savor Lake Superior in the most natural waycamping, hiking, bird watching, and fishing. With depths reaching 135 feet, it supports trout, bullhead, carp, catfish, perch, and bass. Clear Lake is a 79-acre lake located in Buchanan Township (Berrien County), Michigan. Crooked Lake is a nice lake surrounded by the waterfront communities of Ponshewaing, Conway, and Oden in northern Michigan. Crystal Lake is an oligotrophic lake, which indicates that it has low nutrient content, making it fairly clear and healthy. Lake Michigan is an incredible 22,404 square miles in size, making it the third-largest lake by surface area of all five Great Lakes. We started this blog as a place to go to when we had questions about buying our first home on the lake. This is Michigan, and those beautiful, clear blue waters are lakes. Naturally, some of these lakes are crystalline and absolutely stunning. Tucked inland near Traverse City sits one of Michigans most beautiful natural treasures: Torch Lake. Its name is derived from the peninsula it occupies. To satisfy history lovers, Ironton Ferry is nearby. Lake St. Clair, sometimes called the forgotten sixth Great Lake is a favorite of metro Detroiters. Wolverine Lake, surrounded by thick forest and populated with attractive shoreline houses, is a picturesque environment for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Burt Lake is a versatile lake to visit in the Lower Peninsula because it offers just about everything, and its location is convenient. Lake Huron. Mud Lake, located in Antrim County, Michigan, is a serene hideaway that welcomes visitors to immerse themselves in natures embrace. The lift bridge was built by sawmill workers who established a route for lumber to be transported to Lake Michigan. It encompasses more than 20,000 acres and is filled to the brim with stunning natural beauty. Visitors love to swim in the lake and explore the surrounding trails, parks, and beaches. One of Michigans most treasured secrets is this Cheboygan County park. The adjacent beach is excellent for an evening stroll where you can search for washed-up treasures and feast your eyes on a magnificent sunset. This beautiful urban lake is just a short drive away from downtown. Its shimmering surface reflects the azure sky, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that enchants visitors. It has crystal-clear azure-blue waters and a golden sandy shoreline, making it one of the most beautiful lakes in the state. Kayakers may paddle across the calm waters, discovering hidden coves and soaking in the spectacular views along the shoreline. Enjoy the sparkling clear waters of Higgins Lake, perfect for a refreshing dip. Of course stormy weather does impact these waves, and there have been times when waves on Lake Michigan and Lake Huron have reached unbelievable heights. Although it can be easy to overlook, Lake Leelanau is a great lake for swimming in Michigan. A favorite amongst Detroit locals, Lake St. Clair is one of the best lakes for swimming in Michigan. 1. Those that enjoy birds-eye views can take the Alligator Hill traila moderately hilly but shaded climb that offers breathtaking views of Lake Glen and Lake Michigan. According to the Torch Conservation Center, it accounts for the lakes visibility of up to 30 feet on an extra sunny day. Nearby Mullet Lake, Burt Lake is located south of Mackinaw City. The 22,000-square-mile lake is popular for boating, sailing, and fishing. Retrieved 8 May 2020. Although it was once an important part of Native American trade routes and tourism, today most people use it for recreational purposes. Nearby towns: Roscommon, Grayling, and Houghton Lake. The lake is around 232 acres in size, offering plenty of space for various water-based activities. To check to see if a lake has any right now, try visiting this website here. Lake Superior, north, invites people in for a cold swim even during the warmest months. Immerse yourself in the wonders of this picturesque destination and embrace all the recreational opportunities it has to offer. Paddle around the shoreline, taking in the views and sounds of the peaceful setting. With such a large number of lakes, there is plenty of opportunity for outdoor recreation, ranging from fishing and boating to swimming and kayaking. Kitch-iti-kipi Some might even say it is magical. Lake Tahoe. Its waters are immaculate and transparent, allowing visitors to spot aquatic life and rocks at the bottom of the lake at depths of up to 8 feet. One popular trail is the Huron Sunrise Trail, which runs along the shoreline from Rogers City to Alpena. Houghton Lake, located in the heart of Michigan, is a mesmerizing destination that provides a variety of activities and attractions for outdoor enthusiasts. Despite depths of over 300 feet, Michigans Lake Huron boasts crystal waters throughout. You can access the lake via Lake St. Clair Metropark, near Mount Clemens. Torch Lake is a stunningly beautiful lake in the northwestern region of Michigans Lower Peninsula. The natural lake has beautiful beaches and warm water for swimming. So if youre searching for one of the best swimming holes in Michigan,with water clearer than glass, look no further than Torch Lake. While Torch Lake is known for its wild 4th of July weekend, Elk Lake, which is nearby, is a quieter alternative with its Caribbean blue water, making it a great spot for fishing and watersports. It is located near the town of Charlevoix, which is a charming place to visit and grab a bite to eat after your day on the water. Youll be well rewardedsweeping coastline views and a stunning vista of inland Leelanau Country. Warren Dunes State Park #1 in Best Beaches in Michigan Overlooking. It is located within Mackinaw State Forest, which covers the northern eight counties of the . Let us know in the comments! Look for local aquatic centers, splash pads, and water parks that offer their own charm and fun. Splitting the lake into two sections is a good idea. Highlight: The glacial waters of the lake make it ideal for kayaking. Read about this delightful beach resort in Michigan. If you are visiting Michigan's lakes for the scenery more than the swimming and recreation, then visiting between mid-September and mid-October will not disappoint. John Collins Park is on the western shore. Mud Lake delivers a revitalizing experience, whether youre looking for outdoor adventures or a peaceful place to rest. There is ample fishing in Lake Charlevoix, as it can get quite deep in some areas. Go boating with motor or silent sports boats, or opt for sailing, kayaking, or canoeing. See the clarity of this stunning Michigan lake for yourself: Have you spent time along the shores of Elk Lake during previous outings here in the Great Lakes State? There are various marinas and boat rental businesses available, with pontoons, speedboats, and fishing boats among the alternatives. However, it retains a beautiful turquoise color. Its a great spot for ice fishing or snowmobiling in the winter, and in the summer, visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, horseback riding, boating, and fishing. Furthermore, paddleboarding and canoeing allow for a more leisurely exploration of the lake, allowing you to take in the scenery and observe wildlife along the route. This organization is dedicated to maintaining its water quality. With its extensive freshwater coastline, Michigan is truly a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and water sports lovers. Wolverine Lake is an oasis for water sports and recreational activities. What is the cleanest lake in Michigan? It is Michigans longest and most deepest inland lake. Higgins Lake is one of the top ice-fishing lakes in the state for anglers to target northern pike, bass, and trout. Address: 4417 Trillium Ridge, Central Lake, MI 49622. If youre looking for a place to stay on Torch Lake, check out The Torch Lake Bed & Breakfast, which you can learn more about here. Camping and hiking opportunities abound near Mullett Lake for nature lovers. Beulah is a wonderful spot to visit along Crystal Lakes shore. Its about one and a half miles wide and nine miles long. The lake is fairly shallow, only reaching about 20 feet deep. As its name suggests, Clear Lake State Park is known for its pristine water. Michigan is an awesome state for lake lovers after all, its home to more than 10,000 sparkling lakes! Its popular among boaters, swimmers, fishermen, and many others. The largest lake in Kent County can be found in Grand Rapids. This gorgeous lake, surrounded by virgin forests and breathtaking scenery, offers a wide selection of leisure activities to satisfy every interest. Lake St. Clair is a link between Lake Huron, Lake Erie, and was once used as a shipping route. French explorers proclaimed it La Mer Douce, the freshwater sea.. Both locals and tourists love to swim in this lake. There is terrific natural beauty around Higgins Lake, so you can take some time to enjoy the nearby hiking trails while you are here. The sandy shores invite beach-goers to step on the sand, while the tall trees provide shade from the scorching summer sun. Our gorgeous Lake House Rental Cabin 1. Thank you! Highlights: Ferry access to historic Mackinac Island, shipwreck diving opportunities. Renting a boat is highly advised to thoroughly explore the expanse of Houghton Lake. There is a beach at Maple Bay Campground, and camping is available. Anglers can reel in their prized catches by casting a line from a peaceful area on the coast or venturing out on a boat. Its almost impossible to describe its beauty. Each Great Lakes has something to offer, with four of the five preferring Michigan. Island hopping, anyone? Between Kalamazoo, and Battle Creek, Gull lake attracts crowds in summer with its stunning blue-green waters. While were known as the Great Lakes State (with good reason), there are plenty of inland bodies of water worth exploring throughout the area. Lake Medora provides many options for anglers to cast a line and reel in various fish species. Clear Lake is only a short drive to the many points of interest in this area. This has helped preserve the water quality and keep it clean and clear, making it a haven for diverse aquatic life. You will receive your first email soon. The lake is popular for boating, water skiing, kayaking, and pontoon boating. The area has numerous campgrounds and trails, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in natures tranquility. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Clear Lake Property - Real Estate 15501 Lakeview Buchanan, MI 49107 ALL SPORTS CLEAR LAKE MODERN CONTEMPORARY HOME FOR SALE. It also tends to be less crowded. 14. Then you can jump in the water to take a dip or get on a boat for an exciting cruise. Big Glen Lake and Little Glen Lake are great spots for a day at Lake. Here, many visitors enjoy fishing and try their luck at catching fish to cook for dinner. Visitors love to swim in the lake and explore the surrounding trails, parks, and beaches. Birding is a popular activity close to Gull Lake, especially on the eastern shore at the Kellogg Biological Station. It offers many activities and clear water. Located in Mountain Pine Arkansas, Lake Ouachita spans 40,000 acres surrounded by the breathtaking landscape of Ouachita National Forest. Ernest Hemingways childhood home in Horton Bay is a delight for literary lovers. This preserves the natural beauty that has made northern Michigan so popular. Some of the most amazing, clearest lakes in Michigan include: Lake Huron This lake is the second-largest of the Great Lakes, and its remarkably, beautifully crystal-clear. Four of the Great (and largest)Lakesin the United States, Lake Superior, Lake Huron, Lake Michigan, and Lake Erie, are found within Michigan. Other Places to Visit in Michigan: As you plan your Michigan vacation you may want to stay in a city like Detroit, Ann Arbor, or Grand Rapids to explore the attractions and make day trips to the lakes nearby. Kayaking, paddle boarding, and canoeing are popular ways for visitors to explore the lakes nooks and crannies and get up close and personal with its natural treasures. Grab your fishing gear, cast a line, and try your luck at capturing one of the lakes many fish species. From water-based adventures to exploring the surrounding nature, Clear Lake is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Lake Michigamme captures the wild spirit and higher peninsula better than anything else. Are there any alligators in Lake Murray SC? You will find great beaches for swimming, and you can do nearly every water sport. Likewise, thrill-seekers undaunted by often dangerous rip currents can plunge into these frigid waters or discover its intrigue and secrets at The Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum. Lake Ouachita is one of the cleanest lakes in Arkansas and possibly in the U.S., with refreshing, crystal-clear water and beyond-beautiful scenery. Many of these still exist today. There are beaches for swimming and easy access points for kayaking. With over 1,000 inland lakes and 3,300 miles of Great Lakes shoreline, there is no shortage of beaches in Michigan. Lake Erie is also popular for fishing for the famous Lake Erie walleye. It is a terrific boating lake, with access points to the water that are easy to find. You will receive your first email soon. Weve compiled a list with the top lakes in Michigan, both inland and on the Great Lakes waterways. This makes it ideal for swimming. At its deepest point, Torch Lake stretches approximately 315 feet downward. The best time to visit the lakes in Michigan for swimming and recreation is in the summer months of June, July, August, and September. Take your fishing equipment and head out to the lake for bass, pike, walleye, and other species. Copyright 2022 lakeaccess.org - Sitemap. Crooked lake, located just outside of Petoskey, has a maximum depth only of 20 feet. National Geographic has even named Torch Lake the third most beautiful lake in the world due to its stunning, turquoise-colored water. Lake Mitchell is surrounded by lush forests and picturesque landscapes, making it an ideal location for camping and hiking enthusiasts. Summer visitors flock to Crooked lake to enjoy its tranquil waters and cozy cabins. The lake is spread over two counties, Marquette County and Baraga County. Higgins Lake is a glacial lake making its waters one of Michigans cleanest and most beautiful. Besides the quiet scene on Elk Lake, visitors are drawn to the glacial lake's beautiful blue water. Enjoy this exhilarating water sport at the vast Higgins Lake. You can rent a pontoon boat for the day or just relax on the sandy beaches and surrounding sand dunes. Antrim Countys Elk Lake makes a great place to spend a relaxing evening or a fun afternoon with your family. Relax and have a relaxing picnic near Mud Lakes shoreline. It is also popular for its salmon fishing in the spring and in the fall. Whether youre an experienced or inexperienced angler, Houghton Lake has lots of opportunities for landing a huge catch. Exploring the Beautiful Beaches of Oscoda, MI, The Best Lake Huron Michigan Beaches (A Must Visit), Discovering the Beauty of South Haven Beaches, Discover the Beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes Scenic Drive. Big Blue Lake is a nature lovers and outdoor adventurers dream, with its crystal-clear waters, lush surroundings, and diverse species. These waters are teeming with bass, walleye, perch, and other species, making for a fantastic fishing experience. Nestled in the heart of Cadillac, this scenic lake offers a plethora of recreational activities, breathtaking views, and a peaceful escape from bustling city life. Canyon Lake Texas: The Most Beautiful Place in Texas. The river has a dam controlling the lakes water level. You can swim, fish, boat, or sail with confidence because theyre some of the best lakes in the state. Burt Lake has a 2,000-foot shoreline at the Burt Lake State Park, which is one of several park areas near the lake. Torch Lake, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, and Lake Glen are said to be the bluest lakes in Michigan. Although there are many lakes in Michigan with this name, the 40-acre lake located just outside Traverse City in East Bay Township has the best swimming. Its the second-deepest lake after Torch Lake, coming in at an average depth of 196 feet. This is a great spot to take a Michigan autumn color tour. USGS Geonames Domestic. Popular activities on Torch Lake are kayaking and canoeing. Houghton Lake is the largest lake thats entirely within the state of Michigan. You can also find scenic trails to go hiking or riding horses around the region. How Deep is Lake Superior? Its the ideal time to spend quality time with loved ones or simply enjoy some quiet moments of leisure. Highlight: A quiet glacial lake that is part of a chain of lakes in northern Michigan. Torch Lake is a large inland lake located in the northern part of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, about halfway between the cities of Traverse City and Petoskey. Clear Lake State Park. It is close to the village of Elk Rapids in northern Michigan. There are several beaches along the lake for swimming. Whether you prefer tent camping or RVs, options suit every camping style. Torch Lake has drawn visitors for generations. What are some of the clearest lakes in Michigan? Do you have any wonderful summer memories at Torch Lake? The surrounding area boasts numerous parks, lakeside camping, and ample opportunities to enjoy the 2,000 acres of sand dunes on foot, sandboard, or ORV riding in a specially designated area where you can bring your own vehicle or rent one onsite. You can take a ferry across Lake Huron to Mackinac Island or plan a sunset cruise. Check out the lovely little beach at William E. Good Day Park, where you will find picnic tables, grills, a playground, and a boat launch. Learn more about another amazingly clear Michigan lake at, Michigan is an awesome state for lake lovers after all, its home to more than 10,000 sparkling lakes! Torch Lake has plenty of space where you can frolic in warm, blue waters reminiscent of the Caribbean. You can jump in the water to take a dip, then glide along the surface of the lake in a kayak or parasailing over it. Paradise Lake was popular as a resort area in the 20th century until cottages and family homes took over its shores. Lake Michigan has outstanding beaches and comprises about 35 miles of shoreline in the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Dont act too surprised when you see people snorkeling, paddleboarding, waterskiing, and kayaking on this crystal-clear lake. Lake Superior is known for its stunning shorelines, intricate cave systems, and waterfalls, and is a popular spot for swimming despite its cold temperatures. Sand bars throughout the lake also provide a fun place to wade and play. However, you will need a boat to reach them. Renting a boat allows you to explore the lake at your leisure, find secret coves, and take in the spectacular scenery. In addition to swimming, boating, and fishing, there are plenty of other fun activities to enjoy on and around Lake Huron. Its surrounded by fine sand, towering trees and a sparkling lake. Fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines from the shore or use one of the many fishing piers and boat access points located around the lake. Of those 10,000 lakes, about 2,700 of them are mapped. of lakes. And they are here to remind us that paradise, in these uncertain times, is very close at hand. Also, check out our interactive map of Michigans inland lakes. Rent a pontoon or deck boat, or ride the waves on Jet-Skis. Lake Huron, the second-largest of the Great Lakes, tops the list for its pristine turquoise waters, unparalleled shoreline sunrises, numerous lakeside parks, gorgeous beaches, and historic lighthouses. Lake Huron is an essential stopover for migratory birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Tourists love to stop by this shore because of its proximity to Mackinac Island and the natural areas around it. Or you and the family can spend the day at the beach building epic sandcastles. This lovely lake, nestled among rolling hills and deep forests, captivates with its natural beauty. Who needs toys when miles of sand are your playground? You can also take a ferry trip to the Manitou Islands. You should not miss the chance to visit Marquette. There are many small channels and tributaries that are nice for paddling and enjoying the natural surroundings. Source: Craig Sterken / Shutterstock. Its yet another example of Michigans breathtaking natural beauty. Michigan has five Great lakes: Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario. Highlights: The deepest inland lake in Michigan, kayaking and swimming near the sandbars. The inland waterway connects this popular Emmet County lake to Pickerel Lake. There are several parks along the stretch of the lake, including Ludington State Park, where you can go hiking and see Big Sable Lighthouse, one of more than 80 located on Lake Michigan. The lake is home to a variety of fish, such as Bass, Yellow Perch, Walleye, northern pike, and Rainbow trout. This pristine water feels great on a hot, summer day and it is definitely one of the best swimming holes in Michigan. It is one of the biggest and most well-known lakes in Minnesota's famous tourist area, the Brainerd Lakes Area. 1. This allowed the area to prosper. It is also warm during the summer, despite being formed from glacial water. Conveniently Located Just 2 1/2 Hours "Up North" of Metro Detroit off Interstate I-75 in the Center of Northern Michigan. Clear Lake is up to 50 feet deep, contains three islands and has a beautiful sandy shoreline. The fifth Great Lake, Lake Ontario, is in Canada and touches New York.Lake Michigan is the only Great Lake thats entirely inside the United States. Gull Lake Michigan. Lake St. Clair is one of the best lakes for boating in the state, with about 430 square miles, and communities that cater to life on the water. Michigan is home to literally hundreds of lakes. There are many campsites on the Munising and Rapid River/Manistique Ranger Districts of the Hiawatha National Forest. Swimming in Lake Medora is a revitalizing experience that allows you to connect with nature and find peace in its tranquility. Highlights: A family-friendly lake and one of the largest inland lakes in Michigan.