Summary
At the top of our list are the four Great Lakes that constitute the majority of Michigan’s border. These expansive lakes feature numerous charming beach towns lining their shores. Additionally, there are various inland lakes, which may be smaller in scale but provide ample recreational opportunities. With a diverse array of options for visitors, exploring Michigan’s beautiful lakes is highly recommended this summer!
Let us explore the best lakes in Michigan:
1. Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan, on the Michigan side, is celebrated for its stunning beaches and family-oriented activities. The West Michigan Pike connects these delightful towns along a single roadway. Moreover, visitors should not miss the opportunity to stop at the many craft breweries and wineries situated along the route!
As the second largest Great Lake, Lake Michigan provides fishing, boating, sailing, and a wide variety of other activities. One might easily mistake its vastness for an ocean rather than a lake.
This lake is also steeped in rich history that significantly contributed to the region’s development; it is advisable to familiarize oneself with it before visiting.
2. Lake Huron
Lake Huron, often likened to a beaver in shape, is the third largest Great Lake and offers a wide range of activities on the Michigan side.
Home to an abundance of shipwrecks, Lake Huron is a fantastic destination for divers eager to explore the mysteries beneath the water’s surface.
The Sunrise Coast, located in the northern part of Michigan, attracts tourists seeking to enjoy the lake. The breathtaking sunrises available in this region are what inspired the area’s name.
3. Lake Superior
Lake Superior serves as the boundary between Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and Canada, making it the largest of the Great Lakes.
This lake is unique on our list as it is entirely situated on the Upper Peninsula, resulting in a slightly more challenging journey to access. However, once reached, the experience is truly rewarding.
Activities such as sailing, fishing, kayaking, and diving can be enjoyed throughout the lake.
4. Lake Erie
Located south of Detroit, Lake Erie is the smallest of the Great Lakes bordering Michigan and provides convenient access to a variety of outdoor activities.
Fishing and boating are particularly popular activities on this lake, with numerous access points available every few miles. Additionally, a plethora of small islands are scattered across the lake, inviting exploration and discovery.
The Lake Erie Metropark encompasses 1,607 acres of parkland featuring golf courses, trails, and swimming pools, all alongside the picturesque shores of Lake Erie. For those seeking a more comprehensive experience, this is an ideal location along Lake Erie.
5. Torch Lake
Stretching 19 miles long, Torch Lake holds the title of Michigan’s longest lake and, with a depth of 111 feet, it is also the deepest lake in Michigan.
National Geographic has recognized Torch Lake as the third most beautiful lake in the world, acclaimed for its near-perfect turquoise waters.
This lake is known for its lively 4th of July celebrations, where numerous sandbars provide party-goers with an opportunity to leave their boats, wade through the gorgeous waters, and enjoy the festivities. Though this may not appeal to everyone, it remains a favorite for many.
6. Elk Lake
Elk Lake ranks as Michigan’s second deepest lake, following closely behind Torch Lake. This calmer alternative to Torch Lake offers a serene escape for those wishing to enjoy pristine waters without the vibrant energy of Torch Lake. Its Caribbean blue waters make it an attractive destination for fishing and water sports.
7. Lake Leelanau
Located between Traverse City to the south and Leland to the north, this 23-mile long lake offers exceptional swimming, boating, and water skiing opportunities. Fishing enthusiasts can also pursue walleye and bass along its shores, making it a family-friendly destination.
With numerous waterfront properties available for rent, Lake Leelanau is an ideal choice for both brief getaways or extended summer stays. Fountain Point, a historic inn at the southern tip of the lake dating back to 1889, provides a charming lakeside resort experience.
8. Lake Charlevoix
Lake Charlevoix exemplifies true Northern Michigan charm. Its northernmost tip nearly connects with Lake Michigan. This dynamic locale is renowned for its annual Apple Festival in October, where visitors can enjoy a variety of apple products along the lakefront.
The area boasts five distinct beaches, accommodating a range of preferences from family-friendly to serene and pristine. The splendid white sand beaches evoke the quintessential image of Michigan lakes.
9. Mullett Lake
The name of this lake is indeed intriguing; it is named after John A. Mullett, the gentleman who surveyed the area between 1840 and 1843.
Mullett Lake holds the distinction of having the largest inland sturgeon captured in the state of Michigan. Perhaps visitors could attempt to catch the next record holder! The lake is also an excellent habitat for brown, brook, rainbow, and lake trouts.
While this lake may be smaller in size, it holds just as many delightful discoveries as some of the more renowned lakes.
10. Lake St. Clair
This waterbody marks the boundary between Michigan and Canada, situated just northeast of Detroit. Furthermore, it is the closest lake to Detroit, Michigan’s largest city, as well as the nearest lake to a major airport among the listed lakes.
Here, one can partake in a wealth of activities including fishing, water sports, and beach relaxation. Many assert that Lake St. Clair is one of the world’s best boating lakes. With numerous estuaries and lagoons to navigate, there is always something new to discover when exploring this lake by boat.
This lake also features a variety of ports to dock at, each providing a unique ambiance—some are vibrant and festive, while others are tranquil with relaxing beaches.
11. Burt Lake
Burt Lake is well-known for the Burt Lake State Park situated along its southern shoreline. The park features 2,000 feet of sandy beaches and extensive hiking trails. Additionally, it is linked to nearby lakes via the 38-mile Burt Lake-Inland Waterway. This waterway provides an excellent opportunity for exploration and immersion in nature.
For those wishing to remain on solid ground for a few days, the state park includes a campground equipped with various amenities. Established in 1920, the state park spans an area of 406 acres.
12. Crooked Lake
Essentially twin lakes for the price of one, Crooked Lake is interconnected with Pickerel Lake by a channel. Popular activities here include fishing, tubing, water skiing, and parasailing.
The Crooked Lake Resort provides year-round cabins for visitors desiring cozy accommodations during their lakeside adventures.
The lake itself is relatively shallow, with a maximum depth of only 20 feet. Fishing is permitted from dawn to dusk, connecting with the tranquil charm that characterizes this quieter lake.
13. Lake Gogebic
Lake Gogebic is the largest lake in the Upper Peninsula and is renowned for its exceptional fishing opportunities. Notably, this lake straddles two time zones: Eastern and Central.
This lake is celebrated for its numerous waterfalls, some of which are conveniently located near the shoreline while others require exploration down trails and in secluded inlets, making it an exciting destination for adventurers!
During the winter season, the skies often illuminate with the stunning Northern Lights, rendering this a worthwhile year-round destination. Winter sports such as skating and ice fishing are also prevalent here.
14. Black Lake
Black Lake is a popular destination for visitors to the Detroit area and surrounding towns. Onaway State Park is situated at the southern end of the lake, offering opportunities for camping, hiking, and relaxing on its beaches.
This lake is also noteworthy for its distinctive fishing regulations. Each year, only five lake sturgeon may be harvested from the lake, with a minimum size of 36 inches, and caught exclusively by spear fishing during the winter season. Twenty-five fishing licenses are allocated through a lottery system, allowing each angler to raise a flag upon capturing a sturgeon. Once five flags are raised, the fishing season concludes, and no additional catches are permitted.
15. Portage Lake
Connected to Lake Michigan by a channel, some may perceive Portage Lake as a natural bay or harbor of the larger lake; however, historical accounts indicate otherwise. The man-made channel connecting Lake Michigan to Portage Lake was constructed by local homesteaders to manage the lake’s water levels.
This lake offers superb fishing opportunities for anglers of all skill levels and is surrounded by trails catering to various abilities. Prepare your picnic basket or overnight gear and experience this exceptional lake in northern Michigan!
