Northern Michigan is a boater’s dream, with its crystal-clear waters, scenic landscapes, and peaceful charm. Among the most popular destinations for boating enthusiasts are Walloon Lake, Crooked Lake, and Burt Lake. Each of these lakes offers a unique boating experience, from leisurely cruises to thrilling watersports, making them perfect for a summer adventure.
Walloon Lake: A Gem of Tranquility
Walloon Lake, with its serene turquoise waters, is known for its peaceful beauty and historic charm. Boating on Walloon Lake offers a mix of leisure and exploration, as the lake features several bays and quiet inlets perfect for a relaxing day on the water. The shoreline is lined with charming cottages, including some that date back to the early 1900s, giving the lake a nostalgic feel.
Boaters on Walloon Lake can enjoy activities like water skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing. The calm waters are ideal for family outings, and the surrounding landscape offers picturesque views. You can dock at Walloon Village for a quick bite or a lakeside meal at one of the waterfront restaurants, making it easy to enjoy both the lake and the charming community that surrounds it.
Crooked Lake: A Gateway to the Inland Waterway
Crooked Lake is part of the famous Inland Waterway, a 38-mile chain of rivers and lakes that allows boaters to travel across Northern Michigan’s inland waterways. This makes Crooked Lake an excellent spot for those who love a little variety in their boating adventures.
The lake is known for its calm waters, making it perfect for sailing, pontoon cruising, and kayaking. Boaters can spend their day fishing, exploring the scenic shores, or connecting to other nearby lakes, like Pickerel Lake and Burt Lake, via the waterway. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a day trip along the Inland Waterway all the way to Lake Huron.
Crooked Lake also has several public boat launches, making it accessible to boaters of all kinds. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or a gateway to a broader exploration, Crooked Lake is a fantastic choice for boating enthusiasts.
Burt Lake: Northern Michigan’s Playground
Burt Lake, one of the largest lakes in Northern Michigan, is a haven for boating, fishing, and watersports. With its 17,000 acres of pristine water and miles of shoreline, Burt Lake offers endless opportunities for boating adventures. From water skiing and jet skiing to wakeboarding and tubing, the lake is perfect for those looking for a little excitement on the water.
Fishing is also a popular activity on Burt Lake, with anglers seeking out species such as walleye, perch, and bass. The lake’s clear, deep waters make it an ideal spot for casting a line, whether you’re fishing from a boat or along the shoreline.
Boaters can also explore Burt Lake State Park, a beautiful public park with a sandy beach, picnic areas, and a boat launch. It’s a perfect spot for a mid-day stop, where you can swim, relax, or enjoy a picnic before heading back out on the water.
Exploring the Inland Waterway
For boaters looking to explore beyond a single lake, the Inland Waterway connects Crooked Lake, Pickerel Lake, Burt Lake, and Mullett Lake with several rivers, forming a network of water trails that stretch nearly 40 miles across Northern Michigan. This interconnected water system allows for endless exploration, from small-town harbors to peaceful rivers, providing a unique way to experience the region’s natural beauty.
Tips for Your Boating Adventure
- Boat rentals: If you don’t have your own boat, there are several places to rent pontoons, speedboats, and kayaks on all three lakes.
- Marinas: Each lake has public access points and marinas for refueling, renting boats, or enjoying some lakeside dining.
- Safety first: Always be mindful of weather conditions and follow local boating safety regulations, especially on larger lakes like Burt Lake where winds can pick up quickly.
Whether you’re cruising along the tranquil shores of Walloon Lake, setting off on an Inland Waterway adventure from Crooked Lake, or enjoying a day of watersports on Burt Lake, these Northern Michigan lakes offer unforgettable boating experiences. Grab your sunscreen, pack a picnic, and get ready to explore the crystal-clear waters of some of Michigan’s most beautiful lakes!