About Torch Lake

While it is difficult for me to imagine that you've found your way here and have not yet experienced Torch Lake for yourself, I would like to share some of my favorite features of one of the finest lakes on the globe.  I'm very fortunate to be able to spend a tremendous amount of time on Torch Lake and the other lakes in the Antrim County Chain of Lakes with my family and we get to see them in all seasons.  One of our most effective advertising campaigns was shot in October on the famous (sometimes infamous) Torch Lake Sandbar near the south end of the lake.  It's quite a different site than in the summer when 100's of boats converge on the spot to enjoy the gin clear waters and beautiful hard sand bottom that is quite unlike any place else I've ever seen.

Because of its location at the south end of the lake near the Torch River and its reputation as one of the funnest destinations in Michigan, the sandbar is what most people think of when they imagine Torch Lake.  If you're looking to spend some time in the sun on a busy summer weekend and enjoy the company of a few hundred people having an absolute blast, it's a great destination.  Perhaps surprisingly it's not that crazy most of the year, but there are special holiday weekends in the summer where a tremendous number of people gather at or near the sandbar to enjoy one of the great spots in our state. If, on the other hand, you'd like to simply enjoy the peace and quiete and amazing waters of the lake, a run toward the north end will all but ensure privacy.  The Clam River enters Torch Lake about 1/3 of the way up on the East side.  The Dockside Restaurant is located here and is easily the most popular spot to stop by boat and enjoy some great food and a "soda" or two.  An overwhelming majority of the boating traffic on Torch Lake runs between the Torch River and the Clam River so anywhere north of there is usually much less busy.   There are price points for all budgets including on water and off water.  

At over 18 miles in length, Torch is the longest lake in Michigan.  It's over 300' deep at it's deepest point and covers over 18,000 acres!  It's easy to see why Torch is a favorite among boaters.  Also consider that Torch Lake is connected to Elk Lake, Clam Lake, Lake Bellaire, Lake Skegemog and Intermediate Lake and a number or rivers which provide an incredible variety of boating destinations.  There are a number of restaurants such as The Dockside, Torch Riviera and Fabiano's on The River that are all available by boat.  The quaint communities of Alden, Elk Rapids, Torch Lake, Bellaire and more can also be reached by boat via this extensive collection of lakes and rivers.  Marina Services are available at a number of locations throughout the chain including Elk Lake Marina near that lake's north end, Torch River Marine on the Torch River right near Torch Lake, Luhr's Landing about 1/2 way down the Torch River and Dewitt Marine located on Clam Lake just around the corner from Torch Lake and The Dockside Restaurant.

Because of the water quality, boating opportunities, sandy bottom and more, Torch is among the most sought after lakes in the Midwest.  Because of this, values are typically among the highest as well.  A large number of spectacular residences have been built over the years and a slow boat tour around the shoreline is a wonderful way to see some phenomenal homes.  Torch continues to draw some of the most affluent buyers in Michigan who enjoy the lakefront and boating lifestyle.  In recent years, however, there've been some very good buying opportunities that have put some properties on Torch Lake within reach of those who, just a few years ago didn't consider it an option.  You may want to take a look here to see what's available and you just may be surprised to find a property that fits within your budget!

Whether it's for a vacation or to pursue your next waterfront home, we'd love the opportuntiy to help in your search.  Set aside a few extra hours and we can even take a look by boat which is really the best way to experience the lake.  We hope to hear from you soon.