The Chain of Lakes: Lower Chain
By Alecia Croft | Marketing Assistant
The Chain of Lakes is comprised of upper and lower parts of connecting lakes and rivers, or chains. Together, both portions span over 100 miles and cross four counties in the northwest lower peninsula of Michigan. This post focuses on the lower chain, which has just over 30 miles of shoreline, and runs between Bellaire and Elk Rapids. The route highlighted here begins using the boat launch along the Intermediate River to start the journey towards Elk Lake; however, boaters may begin or stop anywhere along the chain, as there are several public launches along the way.
Intermediate River | Lake Bellaire | Grass River
Beginning in Bellaire, travel along the Intermediate River towards Lake Bellaire. Lake Bellaire is unique in that it does not have rocky shores. It also contains coveted wetlands on all but the east boundary; these plants serve an imperative function of removing pollutants from the water. The depth of Lake Bellaire enables cold water fish to flourish; the deepest points of the lake reach about 95 feet. Fishing enthusiasts bait their hooks in hopes of catching walleye, largemouth bass, and more. There are also warm water fishing opportunities in the lake, for those who prefer to stick to the shallow waters.
Cruise along the east shoreline of Lake Bellaire and head to the Grass River next, following the lower chain southwest. The Grass River winds along, allowing water enthusiasts of all kinds to enjoy the beautiful route.
Clam Lake | Clam River | Torch Lake
Once boaters reach the end of the Grass River, they will find themselves in Clam Lake. Many water sports enthusiasts enjoy tubing and waterskiing on Clam Lake, which is significantly shallower than Lake Bellaire, with the deepest point coming in just shy of 30 feet. Boaters make their way through the Clam River next, which connects Clam Lake to Torch Lake.
Torch Lake is known as one of the most pristine inland lakes in Northern Michigan, with its deepest points reaching around 300 feet. While there are many sandy areas in the lake, the south end boasts a large and popular sandbar. Tie up at the Torch River Shack to pick up some snacks and a few mementos to commemorate your visit. After spending some time on the sandbar, swing by the Torch Lake Beer Company for a cold brew and a burger; there is a public dock available just a short walk from the restaurant.
Torch River | Lake Skegemog | Elk Lake
From Torch Lake, boaters navigate to the Torch River as they continue making their way along the chain. The Torch River leads into the northeast side of Lake Skegemog. Fishing is a popular activity on Lake Skegemog, with lines cast in hopes of catching many species of fish, such as smallmouth bass, catfish, trout, and bluegill. Slightly northwest from there, navigate towards Elk Lake. The massive Elk Lake spans over 500 square miles with depts of nearly 200 feet in the deepest places. Stay on Elk Lake a while, cast a line and take advantage of another fishing opportunity, or navigate towards the marina in Elk Rapids.
Elk Rapids Marina
When boaters arrive at the public marina in Elk Rapids, if they want to return the way they came, they navigate to one of the upper harbor docks. To continue on to Lake Michigan and East Grand Traverse Bay, boaters must navigate to the lower harbor docks. The marina has a new pavilion with air conditioning, and the docks all have fresh water and electricity hook ups. Fill up the fuel tank at the fuel dock or take advantage of the dog run. Enjoy the quaint shops and restaurants of the downtown area by taking the marina’s complementary shuttle to explore the village of Elk Rapids.
We hope you can find the time this summer to enjoy winding down the rivers and through the lakes that create the lower chain. Happy travels.
