Lakes of Michigan | Lake Bellaire
Quick Facts
- Location: Antrim County
- Lake Type: Natural Freshwater Lake, Dammed
- Surface Area: 1,793 acres
- Shoreline: 12 miles
- Average Depth: 43 feet
- Maximum Depth: 95 feet
- Public Access Sites: 11
Lake activities
Boating (motor, sail, paddle) | Fishing (year-round) | Swimming | Water skiing/wakeboarding/tubing | Wind surfing
area attractions
Biking | Camping | Cross-Country Skiing | Dining | Golfing | Hiking | Shopping | Snowboarding | Snowmobiling | Snowshoeing | Vacation Rentals | Wildlife Viewing
fish
Bass | Crappie | Muskellunge | Perch | Pike | Sunfish | Trout | Walleye
Lake Bellaire, one of 14 lakes and rivers in the Elk River Watershed Chain of Lakes, is an all-sports lake situated just east of Torch Lake. The surrounding wetlands filter out pollutants and provide an optimal environment for fish, wildlife, and vegetation. The more than 1,400 protected acres boasts over 500 species of plants, 147 species of birds, 35 species of fish, and 33 species of reptiles and amphibians.
The environmental conditions combined with the lake’s depth make Lake Bellaire an ideal fishing spot. In fact, the lake has been affectionately labeled “Fisherman’s Paradise” because of the wide variety of fish species that inhabit its waters. Trout, walleye, perch, crappie, and bass are just a few of the fish you’ll find in this lake.
There’s plenty of other activities to do on and around the lake, as well. The two public boat launches make it easy to drop a motorized boat into the water for a day on the lake. Kayaks, canoes, and paddle boards can also be found sprinkled across the lake or navigating along the 12-mile shoreline. Notewares Landing Beach provides public access to the lake, and its shallow beach, grassy areas, and picnic tables make it ideal for families – especially those with young children.
Located northeast of the lake is the city of Bellaire, an adorable small town packed with things to do all year. Explore local farmers’ and artisan markets, indulge in a tasty treat at one of the ice cream or candy shops, or find Michigan-made gifts at local boutiques. Tour local wineries and breweries or grab a bite at one of the many restaurants, bars, and pubs. Catch a flick at the local theater that’s steeped in history or head over to the bowling alley for all sorts of games and entertainment.
Is golf your thing? There are more than 10 local golf clubs that boast courses for all skill levels and spectacular views. For the outdoor enthusiast, there are miles of land and water trails for hiking, biking, and paddling. Winter is just as exciting with the opportunity to explore the snow-covered side of nature on snowshoes, cross-country skis, or snowmobiles.
Whether you’re just passing through or staying for a while, Lake Bellaire and the surrounding area is an Up-North adventure you’ve got to experience.