Lakes of Michigan | Elk Lake
Quick Facts
- Located in Antrim/Grand Traverse County
- Natural freshwater lake
- 8,194 acres
- Shoreline: 28 miles
- Average Depth: 54 feet
- Maximum Depth: 192 feet
- Public Access Sites: 37
Lake Activities
Fishing | Ice Fishing | Boating (motor, sail, paddle) | Swimming | Beach | Water Skiing/Wakeboarding/Tubing
Local Attractions
Birding | Camping | Dining | Golfing | Hiking | Shopping | Snowmobiling | Snowshoeing
Fish
Bass | Cisco | Muskellunge | Perch | Pike | Sunfish | Trout | Whitefish
Located at the south end of the Elk River Chain of Lakes, Elk Lake is a beautiful freshwater lake fed from Torch River through Lake Skegemog. Elk River was originally named Meguzee River by the local Anishinabek Indians who inhabited the Elk Rapids area. According to The Village and Township of Elk Rapids, European-American settlers discovered elk antlers in the rapids, and in 1858, the rapids, river, and lake were renamed to what they are today.
With more than 8,000 acres and nearly 26 miles of shoreline, there’s no shortage of things to do in and around the water! Tourists and residents alike swim along the shallow shores or sunbathe on the sandy beaches. The clear, Caribbean-like waters are peppered with motor boats or sailboats cruising along the nine-mile length of the lake and paddle boats navigating the shoreline.
Anglers of all ages are also drawn to Elk Lake due to its large variety of bass, trout, perch, and pike, among other fish populations. The winter months are no different! In fact, the same varieties of fish can be caught once the snow starts to fall and the lake ices over.
The water isn’t the only point of interest, either. There’s so much to do in the areas surrounding the lake. Head to Elk Rapids to shop at fun boutiques or taste the cuisine of local restaurants. The numerous parks and wildlife areas boast miles of trails perfect for year-round exploration. From hiking and biking in the warmer months to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter, there’s something for every nature-lover. For those who love golf, there are more than 20 public and private golf clubs within 20 miles of the Elk Lake area.
The Elk Rapids Hydroelectric Dam, located between Elk Lake and Grand Traverse Bay, the dam is steeped in history and is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the area. What started as a power source for the local sawmill in the late 1800s was later electrified to support the booming iron industry. After being decommissioned in the mid-1900s and later recommissioned with hydroelectric power, the current-day dam is a fascinating Elk Rapids landmark.
Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, Elk Lake is the perfect destination. There are all sorts of lodging options available including camping, short-term rentals, and resort hotels to fit your needs. So make sure you add Elk Lake to your bucket list of must-see Michigan attractions!