Michigan boasts a plethora of enchanting lakes, and those nestled in Antrim County are a true gem. Located to the east of Lake Michigan, Lake Bellaire stands out as a 1,793-acre all-sports lake offering abundant opportunities for swimming, boating, kayaking, waterskiing, windsurfing, sailing, and fishing. Surrounding this picturesque lake, visitors will find a diverse range of accommodations catering to both the laid-back weekend traveler and the adventurous outdoor enthusiast. Luxurious resorts rub elbows with charming bed and breakfasts, cozy inns, modern condo villages, and well-equipped campgrounds. From lakeside cabins to private vacation homes and large chain hotels, the options are abundant, promising travelers the delightful challenge of finding their perfect holiday retreat. Situated in the northwest of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, Lake Bellaire is a naturally occurring freshwater lake that was once known as Grass Lake until the 1950s. Its unique shape contributes to its extensive 11.5-mile shoreline, resembling an elongated “S” design that widens significantly towards the lower end. Flowing generally from north to south, Lake Bellaire is nourished by several streams, including the Cedar River and Intermediate Lake, with its main outlet located in the southeast corner leading into the Grass River, eventually joining Clam Lake. Acting as a conduit, Clam Lake courses southeast to northwest, linking Lake Bellaire to the larger Torch Lake. Part of the Elk River Watershed Chain of Lakes, which is a vital natural asset for lower Michigan, Lake Bellaire is one among 14 lakes and rivers in this network. Together with Clam Lake and the stunning Torch Lake, known as one of the world’s most beautiful lakes, they form a sprawling 500-square-mile watershed. Interconnected through streams and rivers, a chain of lakes like this offers boaters the chance to traverse the entire network by watercraft, providing a scenic journey amidst pristine waters, glimpses of wildlife, and calming experiences that linger in memory. The charming town of Bellaire, serving as the Antrim County seat, is nestled northeast of Lake Bellaire, where the Intermediate River meets Cedar River. The town is where the historic Bellaire Dam was erected in 1902, initially for power generation. Although decommissioned in the 1950s, the dam now serves the crucial role of water level control, maintaining an official water level of 610 feet. This regulation directly impacts Lake Bellaire’s water levels, given the dam’s proximity to the lake’s inlet and the significant water inflow from Intermediate and Cedar Rivers. Acting as the sole barrier to complete navigation through the Elk River Chain of Lakes, the Bellaire Dam shapes the connectivity for small watercraft across the entire lake chain. Boasting an average depth of 43 feet and a maximum depth of 95 feet, Lake Bellaire has rightfully earned the moniker “Fisherman’s Paradise” for its exceptional fishing grounds. Anglers will delight in opportunities to reel in brown trout, lake trout, muskie, perch, northern pike, crappie, walleye, and more, either from the shore or by boat. Visitors often marvel at the lake’s crystal-clear waters, occasionally catching sight of the sandy lakebed beneath. With two public boat launches available for watercraft enthusiasts, Lake Bellaire is a haven for those seeking aquatic adventures. Measuring around 4.5 miles at its longest and 1.3 miles at its widest, Lake Bellaire boasts excellent water quality attributable to the vigilant efforts of local residents who cherish their inland lakes as invaluable natural resources. The Three Lakes Association (TLA), a non-profit organization committed to preserving Lake Bellaire, Clam Lake, and Torch Lake, has been dedicated to enhancing and safeguarding water quality since 1966. As part of the larger 14-lake Chain of Lakes in Michigan, spanning approximately 75 miles, the Elk River Chain of Lakes significantly contributes to Grand Traverse Bay’s water input and holds a substantial share of Michigan’s inland water bodies. Near Lake Bellaire, the Grass River Natural Area (GRNA), established in 1969, spans 1,443 acres of protected diverse habitats. Home to over 400 plant species, 60 reptile and amphibian species, and 65 bird species, this natural area hosts a range of ecosystems including upland forests, marshes, rivers, swamps, creeks, and fields. Featuring over 7.5 miles of well-maintained trails for guided or self-exploration, the GRNA offers educational programs catering to all ages and interests year-round. From bird watching to mushroom identification, wildflower hikes to wildlife observations, the GRNA presents a wealth of educational and recreational opportunities for nature enthusiasts. The village of Bellaire, with a population of approximately 1,164 residents, lies to the north and northeast of Lake Bellaire, encompassed by Forest Home Township. Relying heavily on tourism, the village’s economy thrives on the influx of vacationers, underscoring the importance of preserving the area’s natural beauty and resources. Surrounded by enticing lakes such as Elk Lake, Lake Skegemog, Thayer Lake, Lake of the Woods, Green Lake, Intermediate Lake, and Birch Lake, Lake Bellaire serves as a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. Within easy reach of Traverse City, Mackinac Island, and Lewiston, Lake Bellaire offers a central launching point for a vibrant Michigan vacation filled with fun and exploration.