Get ready for an epic summer vacation because this time we are taking you up north to the beautiful Torch Lake in Michigan. It is renowned around the world for its crystal-clear turquoise water, sandbar, and summer vibe. Torch Lake is a lovely place where many come to soak up the sun, splash, and enjoy adventure-filled water sports.
With an abundance of options, it’s easy to miss the finest experiences, especially fishing on Torch Lake. To make it effortless for you, I have put together a list of the 8 absolute best things to do in Torch Lake where you can find the perfect spots to go.
Feel The Waves of Torch Lake
This 19 miles long lake is a little paradise that offers plenty of water activities that will keep you busy all day. Swimming or snorkeling in the waters of this crystal-clear lake gives you an absolutely mind-blowing experience that you will never forget.
It’s a great location to take your family out, especially for kids as they explore these immense blue waters sparkling their sense of wonder and curiosity. But there’s always room for thrill seekers, motorized water sports such as ski boats and jet skis are very popular here, along with canoeing, windsurfing, etc, for those who prefer a more relaxed way of enjoying the lake.
Aquatic Adventures Available
- Windsurfing – Experience the breeze of this gorgeous blue water lake in the combination of sailing and surfing in this water adventure sport.
- Swimming and Snorkeling – The crystal clear water of this lake which helps you to refresh by exploring those wonderful activities.
- Paddleboarding – Get into the serene experience of the lush greenery surroundings of the lake by this activity.
- Water Skiing and Wakeboarding – This water sports makes you thrill on the jumping waves of the Torch lake by exploring this real watersport.
Plenty of Fishing & Fun
Fishing is a total fun activity that can be enjoyed with friends and family. Torch Lake is one the best places swarming with a wide variety of fish that has drawn fishing enthusiasts to these waters from all over the US.
Fishing guides and charters are available to increase the chance of reeling the fish and there are plenty of bait shops and supplies to support the trip of a lifetime.
Fish species of Torch Lake
Torch Lake fishing is very popular, the reason behind this is the home for the disparate species of fishes and down below find out some of the popular species:
| Smallmouth Bass | Lake Trout |
| Northern Pike | Largemouth Bass |
| Yellow Perch | Walleye |
If you are interested in knowing more about such lake paradises, then you should go read this blog on top lakes in the Poconos.
Sleep Under The Stars
Camping in Torch Lake is a popular summertime activity. With its stunning natural beauty and crystal-clear waters, Torch Lake is often compared to the Caribbean. There are plenty of campgrounds near Torch Lake where you can spend a night under the stars, surrounded by nature. So pack your camping gear and essentials, and get ready for an unforgettable Torch Lake camping adventure!
Torch Lake Campground
Relax on some of the popular campground destinations where you can also find Torch Lake visitors guide by the experts and explore the great spots below:
| Barnes Park Campground | 12298 Barnes Park Road, Eastport, MI 49627 |
| William Good Day Park | 12201 Public Dock Road, Kewadin, MI 49648 |
| Rapid River Campground & Cabins | 7182 US-131, Mancelona, MI 49659 |
| Whitewater Township Park and Campground | 9500, Park Road, Williamsburg, MI 49690 |
| Chain O’ Lakes Campground | 7231 M-88, Bellaire, MI 49615 |
Don’t forget to book the best getaways rentals in the Poconos, before going to the spot. You can find luxurious homes nearby various popular attractions where you can make your vacation perfect.
Take a Walk with Nature
One of the best ways to enjoy the fall foliage of this area is on foot. If you are not very keen on water sports then, Torch Lake also offers amazing hike trails to witness and explore the beautiful natural surroundings of the area. So, here is a list of a few hiking trails for you and your adventure team to climb.
Trails
Torch lake is filled with mesmerizing nature trails, here is a list of few of the best trails to walk in nature.
| Trail spot | Length | Type | Difficulty | Elevation gain |
| Torch Lake Nature Preserve | 1.5 mile | Loop | Moderate | 121 feet |
| Torch Bay Nature Preserve | 1.4 mile | Out and backward | Easy | 59 feet |
| Glacial Hills Pathway and Natural Area Trailhead | 31.5 miles | Loop | Moderate | More than 400 feet |
Take a Scenic Ride
Ride around the scenic shores of Torch Lake or explore the less traveled roads surrounding the beautiful Lake. The area offers easy bike trails nestled between mountains and woods. You can bring your own bike or can rent a bike from rental bike shops which offer wide ranges of bikes to select from.
If you are visiting this little paradise with family or with a group of friends, then you must know the types of vacation rentals you can rent here, so don’t forget to check our blog on types of stay and find out the most suitable one for you. Bring back your childhood memories with friends and embark on a biking outing.
Bike Trails
Get on to the bike and experience the scenic beauty by exploring some of the popular biking trails spots which you can discover below:
| Trail Spots | Total area | Address |
| Glacial Hills Pathway & Natural Area Trailhead | 31.5 miles | 3169 Eckhardt Road, Bellaire, MI 49615 |
| Orchard Hill Trailhead Parking Lot | 3 miles | 2462-3452, Orchard Hill Road, Bellaire, MI 49615 |
| Seven Bridges Nature Area | Over 1 mile | Valley Road, Rapid City, MI 49676 |
Experience the Bird’s Eye View
Have you ever wondered how it feels to dive from sky-high? If not then get ready for the mother of all adventures, here in Torch Lake.
Experience the exhilarating sensation of 150 mph freefall and sightsee the beautiful Torch Lake from a bird’s eye view. And don’t worry, professional trainers will guide you and ensure that you have a fun and safe adventure.
Skydiving Spots
Below you can discover the best spots for your eye catching moments which should be experience once in a lifetime such as:
| Skydiving Spots | Price | Timings | Address |
| Skydive Charlevoix | $239 to $249 | 8 am to 9 pm | 111, Airport Drive, Charlevoix, MI 49720 |
| Skydive TC | $299 | Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday – 10 am to 6 pm | Saturday & Sunday – 9 am to 6 pm | Monday & Thursday – Closed | 1160, Airport Access Road, Traverse City, MI 49686 |
Next Golf Vacation
It’s hard to imagine a vacation bucket list without including this amazing game. Fortunately, there are many great golf courses near Torch Lake, thus offering an awesome opportunity for a great golf vacation. The golf course near Torch Lake offers a challenging yet fun-filled experience for rookies and pros alike.
Golf Courses Worth Visiting
Find below some of the must visit golf spots near to the Torch lake where you can play the real game of golfing:
| Golf Spots | Type | Holes | Length | Address |
| A Ga Ming Golf Resort | Resort | 18 | 6612 yards | 627 Ag A Ming Drive, Kewadin, MI 49648, United States |
| Antrim Dells Golf course | Public | 18 | 6606 yards | 12352 Antrim Drive. US 31, Ellsworth, MI 49729-9741, United States |
| Dunmaglas Golf Club | Public | 18 | 6901 yards | 9031 Boyne City Road, Charlevoix, MI 49720, United States |
If you want to experience the extra thrill in the Poconos, just go for a read on this blog Dog sledding in the Poconos. This blog will guide you why and where you should go to experience this exciting game.
Dine In At The Finest
Just imagine eating a delicious meal overlooking a beautiful lake, exciting isn’t it? Eating while traveling is one of the cravings of the vacation and certainly the most memorable too. Now experience this delicious feeling by planning a vacation to Torch Lake and explore some of the best restaurants where you can savor delectable dishes while gazing out at the sparkling blue lake.
Luscious Experience Worth A Try
Relish on the delicious foods where you can get on some of the popular spots which will definitely crave you with relishing foods. Find some of the popular restaurants in Torch Lake such as:
| Relishing Spots | Must Try Foods | Address |
| Jonny’s Torch Riviera | Crab Rangoon & Planked Whitefish | 12899 Cherry Ave, Rapid City, MI 49676 |
| Pearl’s New Orleans Kitchen | Etouffee & Jambalaya | 617 Ames Street, Elk Rapids, MI 49629 |
| Bluewater Bistro & Pizzeria | Clam chowder & Antipasto salad | 11921 SE Torch Lake Drive, Alden, MI 49612 |
Wrap Up
Torch Lake is among the best lakes in Michigan where you can plan short as well as long vacations with your family and friends. By exploring various things to do by Torch lake, get the mesmerizing experience which is addictive and exquisite.
Book your stay in HolidayKeepers where you can find the best luxury vacation rentals with various property types which are equipped with state-of-the-art amenities that make every vacation extra special. Contact for further enquiries.
FAQs
How deep is Torch Lake?
The maximum depth of Torch Lake is 285 feet and the average depth is 111 feet.
What is Torch Lake known for?
Torch Lake is renowned for its stunning turquoise-blue waters, often referred to as one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. It’s a popular destination for boating, swimming, and water sports due to its clear and inviting waters.
What are other things to do near Torch Lake?
Torch Lake offers a variety of water activities, including boating, sailing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and swimming. You can also visit the famous Torch Lake Sandbar offering superb water fun.
Is fishing legal in Torch Lake?
Yes, fishing is legal, in fact, Torch Lake fishing is among one of the top activities here. Just keep in mind to have a valid Michigan fishing license.
Is Torch Lake suitable for a family vacation?
Yes, Torch Lake is a family-friendly destination. Its clear waters, recreational activities, and scenic beauty make it a great place for families to enjoy quality time together.
Paul P, Senior Editor and Travel Planner at HolidayKeepers, brings over 10 years of experience from New York. He expertly combines storytelling with extensive knowledge in travel and hospitality. Known for turning vibrant travel experiences into engaging articles, Paul covers everything from hidden gems to the latest in vacation rentals, resonating with adventurers and leisure-seekers alike.
