A Boaters Paradise: Torch Lake
I’ve yet to experience a freshwater lake as amazing as Torch Lake! Crystal-clear water in the brightest shades of blue and green, stunning sunsets, and the infamous “Sandbar.”
Torch Lake is located in Northwest lower Michigan, and is Michigan’s longest inland lake, as well as its largest by volume. The waters draw thousands of boaters every summer and has been nationally-recognized as Michigan’s own slice of Caribbean paradise. There are few sandy, public access beaches on Torch Lake, but for us boaters… who cares…let the adventure begin!
With the boat launched we start out tooling around the lake enjoying the breathtaking water and incredible homes. Waterfront property on Torch lake is extremely expensive, but, 48 public access points along the perimeter make it easily accessible for boaters. With limited fuel docks its nice to see homeowners protecting the water by utilizing LilliPad Marine Funnels to keep from spilling gas into the lake. It’s evident that Torch Lake is a recreational paradise, from pontoon boats to power boats, wave runners to kayaks… and every “Lake-Life” accessory in between, you see it all on Torch Lake!
Next, we hit the Dockside Restaurant which seems to be a tradition for our adventures on Torch. The food is traditional American cuisine, but the draw is really the people-watching as boats cruise by on the canal. Its always fun to spot boats with cool features like LilliPad Diving Boards!
As boaters with kids, the next step in our day is ALWAYS to get some energy out of the kiddos! There are plenty of deep coves on Torch Lake to choose from so we head to a calm location and throw the anchor. The next hour or two is filled with jumping off the LilliPad Diving Board. Honestly, Mom and Dad only need to do a few jumps and then the kids take over with cannon ball contests, funny jumps, and tons of laughs! Today, we were joined by a fellow boater that we met at the Dockside and had a blast with a jump contests between the kids.
With the kids tired out we are now ready to head to the sandbar! If you enjoy a packed party… the weekend is for you! If you’re looking for “family-friendly,” mid-week is perfect! The sandbar is stunning and offers various depths for numerous water sports activities. Our younger kids like to be in about 3 feet of water so they can goof around searching for “treasure” on the bottom. Others play games in a foot of water or splash around with pets. Our dog loves to jump off the boat and chase her ball and easily boards with our bow-mount LilliPad Revo Ladder.
There is far too much to do on Torch Lake to spend just one day…. check out Team LilliPad Marine’s upcoming blogs for more on Torch Lake as well as boating spots along the chain (Torch lake is a lower link of Michigan’s Chain of Lakes).
As hard as it may feel to head to shore, the towns surrounding Torch Lake are incredible! Did you know that Northern Michigan is a “foodie” destination?
Written By: Ann Schaub, Owner – LilliPad Marine
