Torch Lake, MI Area Guide | Brick & Corbett

Welcome to Torch Lake

Welcome to Torch Lake, a stunning 19-mile stretch of crystal-clear, turquoise water in Northern Michigan known for its remarkable clarity, sandy bottoms, and vibrant lakeside communities. Often compared to a Caribbean lagoon, Torch Lake offers a rare blend of natural beauty and peaceful shoreline living. The surrounding communities—Alden, Eastport, Rapid City, Kewadin, Elk Rapids, and areas near Bellaire—provide access to charming small-town amenities while preserving the quiet, scenic appeal that makes this lake so beloved.

Homes around the lake range from long-adored family cottages to elegant waterfront estates with private docks and sweeping views. Shoreline roads wind through wooded terrain and open vistas, creating an ideal setting for daily walks, bike rides, and easy access to the water. Although it feels tucked away, Torch Lake remains conveniently close to larger hubs such as Traverse City, Charlevoix, and Petoskey, offering residents a balanced lifestyle that blends tranquility with accessibility.

What to Love

Crystal-clear, turquoise water with sandy bottoms and iconic shallows
A mix of classic cottages and luxury lakefront homes
Easy access to Alden, Bellaire, Eastport, Rapid City, and Kewadin
Nearby trails, natural areas, and year-round outdoor recreation
A relaxed lakeside community with deep local pride

Local Lifestyle

Life on Torch Lake follows the rhythm of the water and the seasons. Summer days are filled with boating, swimming, paddleboarding, and leisurely cruises along the shoreline. Many residents spend time on their docks, hosting family gatherings or exploring the lake’s coves and connected waterways. Fall and spring bring a quieter charm—perfect for hiking nearby nature preserves, enjoying scenic drives, or appreciating the dramatic seasonal colors. Winters shift to snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and cozy nights in nearby village centers. The area’s mix of long-time residents, seasonal homeowners, and repeat visitors creates a friendly, welcoming community atmosphere.

Dining and Shopping

Dining around Torch Lake is centered in the small communities that surround the shoreline. On the north end in Eastport, Torch Lake Café is a year-round favorite offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Live music and evening gatherings add to its appeal, and it has long been a local go-to for dependable, friendly dining near the water.

Just inland from the northeast side of Torch Lake in downtown Bellaire, Short’s Brewing Company’s flagship pub is one of Michigan’s best-known craft breweries. Its lively taproom, creative lineup of craft beers, and hearty pub menu make it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. Nearby, Dockside serves casual American fare overlooking the Clam River as it flows into Torch Lake. Its deck seating and easygoing vibe create an ideal stop for summer meals.

A short drive northwest of Torch Lake, Elk Rapids serves as a key hub for dining and everyday conveniences. Pearl’s New Orleans Kitchen is a long-standing favorite known for its vibrant atmosphere and Cajun-inspired comfort food, while Short’s Pull Barn taproom at the brewery’s Elk Rapids production campus offers a laid-back spot to enjoy their beers in a beer-garden setting. In the village marina area, The Dam Shop combines a coffee bar, casual eats, and a handy place to grab drinks, snacks, and boating essentials. Around downtown Elk Rapids, small shops and local businesses add charm to the walkable center, giving residents and visitors easy access to daily necessities along with plenty of places to relax and unwind.

Things to Do and Entertainment

Torch Lake is renowned for its world-class on-the-water experiences. The iconic Torch Lake Sandbar at the southern end is known for its shallow, clear water and social atmosphere, especially in the summer months. Boating, swimming, and paddleboarding dominate the warm seasons, and various public access points around the lake make it easy for residents to enjoy time on the water. Fishing, sunset cruises, and shoreline exploration round out the lake’s recreational appeal.

Off the water, the area offers numerous land-based activities. Torch Lake Township’s Day Park and other small lakeside parks provide peaceful spaces for picnicking, relaxing, and taking in the views. Just a short drive away, Grass River Natural Area offers miles of boardwalks and trails through wetlands and forests, along with educational programming at its nature center. The Glacial Hills Pathway and Natural Area near Bellaire provides extensive opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and winter sports across its wooded terrain. Seasonal events in nearby communities add further entertainment and bring residents together year after year.

Schools

Educational options around Torch Lake vary depending on the specific shoreline community. Much of the area is served by Central Lake Public Schools and Elk Rapids Schools, two well-regarded districts offering K–12 education with a strong emphasis on academics, athletics, and supportive learning environments. On the northern side of the lake region, Bellaire Public Schools provides another small, close-knit district with elementary through high school programs. Families can also explore private and specialty school options in nearby communities such as Traverse City.

Overview for Torch Lake, MI

2,392 people live in Torch Lake, where the median age is 59.2 and the average individual income is $56,277. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.

2,392

Total Population

59.2 years

Median Age

Medium

Population Density Population Density This is the number of people per square mile in a neighborhood.

$56,277

Average individual Income

Property Listings

Price

Living Area

Pending

MLS® 1932893

Your Torch Lake Real Estate Agent

Bob Brick, Senior Advisor & Partner

Primary phone
(231) 342-3232
License Number
#6502134537
Email
[email protected]
Address
500 S Union St
Traverse City, MI 49684

Get to Know Bob

Bob is an exceptional Torch Lake Real Estate Agent, a third-generation native deeply rooted in the community, and recognized as "one of Traverse City's natural resources." Bob boasts an unparalleled 40+ year career consistently ranking in the top 1% of North American Real Estate Agents. His dedication and expertise are evidenced by numerous accolades, including RE/MAX International Hall of Fame and Titanium Club memberships, a Lifetime Achievement Award, and being named Michigan's #1 agent in 1997. Consistently a top RE/MAX of Michigan agent for over 30 years, Bob’s 50+ years in local real estate and over 5,000 properties sold speak volumes about his commitment to the Traverse City real estate market.

Bob Brick's hallmark is his deep expertise, extensive knowledge, unwavering dedication, and vast experience as a Torch Lake Real Estate Agent. Known for genuinely caring about his clients, Bob goes above and beyond to exceed expectations and help them achieve their real estate dreams. To experience dedicated service and unparalleled local expertise, Contact Top Traverse City Real Estate Agent Bob Brick Today and let his decades of success work for you.

Around Torch Lake, MI

There's plenty to do around Torch Lake, including shopping, dining, nightlife, parks, and more. Data provided by Walk Score and Yelp.

8

Car-Dependent

Walking Score

32

Somewhat Bikeable

Bike Score

Points of Interest

Explore popular things to do in the area, including King Orchards, and Waterfire Vineyards Torch Lake.

Name	Category	Distance	Reviews	Ratings by Yelp
Visit the King Orchards page on Yelp Search 986 US Hwy 31 S on Google Maps	Dining · $$	1.74 miles	26 reviews	4.8/5 stars
Visit the Waterfire Vineyards Torch Lake page on Yelp Search 12180 Sutter Rd on Google Maps	Dining · $$	1.22 miles	28 reviews	4.8/5 stars

Demographics and Employment Data for Torch Lake, MI

Population Households Employment

Torch Lake has 1,152 households, with an average household size of 2.06. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. Here’s what the people living in Torch Lake do for work — and how long it takes them to get there. Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau. 2,392 people call Torch Lake home. The population density is 87.72 and the largest age group is Data provided by the U.S. Census Bureau.