The Chain of Lakes Water Trail is one of the best paddling routes in the Midwest, and Bellaire sits right in the middle of it. In 2025 it became the first water trail in the state to earn the Pure Michigan Water Trail designation.
What is the Chain of Lakes Water Trail?
The trail is a marked route for kayaks, canoes, paddleboards and other non-motorized boats through a string of connected lakes and rivers in Northern Michigan.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Length | More than 100 miles of water |
| Waterways | 12 connected lakes and rivers |
| Access sites | 84 public access sites |
| Area | Antrim County, plus parts of Charlevoix, Kalkaska and Grand Traverse counties |
| Run by | Paddle Antrim, a local nonprofit |
| Designation | First Pure Michigan Water Trail (2025) |
The access sites belong to about 20 partners, including townships, villages, road commissions, the Michigan DNR and land conservancies.
How the chain connects
Water flows from the upper lakes near Ellsworth and Central Lake down to Grand Traverse Bay at Elk Rapids. Around Bellaire, the route goes:
- Intermediate River through downtown Bellaire into Lake Bellaire
- Grass River from Lake Bellaire to Clam Lake
- Clam River into Torch Lake
- Torch River to Lake Skegemog and Elk Lake, which empties into Grand Traverse Bay at Elk Rapids
The best paddles near Bellaire
Downtown Bellaire to Lake Bellaire. Start in the village and paddle the Intermediate River out into Lake Bellaire. A good short trip for beginners, and you can finish with lunch in town.
The Grass River. A slow, winding river through wetlands and forest between Lake Bellaire and Clam Lake. It runs past Grass River Natural Area, so watch for birds and wildlife. Calm water makes it a favorite with families.
Clam Lake to Torch Lake. Paddle the short Clam River out onto Torch Lake for the famous turquoise water. Torch Lake is big and can get choppy, so stay close to shore and save it for a calm day. More in our Torch Lake guide.
Barrier-free launches
Some sites have accessible launches for paddlers with limited mobility, including Milton Township Waterfront Park and Rotary Park in Elk Rapids. Check Paddle Antrim's map for the current list.
Maps and planning
Paddle Antrim publishes a waterproof Paddler's Guide, a digital map and an online trip planner, all at paddleantrim.com. Use them to plan launch and take-out points and to see which sites have parking and restrooms.
Paddling safety tips
- Wear a life jacket. The water stays cold well into summer, especially on Torch Lake.
- Check the wind. The bigger lakes can get rough quickly. Rivers and small lakes are the safer choice on windy days.
- Watch for boats. Stay near shore and away from boat channels, especially around marinas and the Torch Lake sandbar.
- Clean, drain, dry. Clean your boat between lakes to help stop the spread of invasive species.
- Plan a shuttle. For one-way trips, leave a car at your take-out.
Where to stay
Every home we host is a short drive from a Chain of Lakes launch, and Overlook Bellaire is five minutes from downtown Bellaire.
Overlook Bellaire
A 2021 modern home on 10 private acres above Bellaire, looking out over Intermediate Lake. Sauna, cold plunge, hot tub and a game room.
Check dates and book direct →
Alm Haus
A renovated Northwoods chalet 5 minutes from Schuss Mountain, with a hot tub under the pines, triple-queen bunk room, game room and stargazing dome.
Check dates and book direct →
Northwoods Treehaus
A 1960s A-frame in the pines at Schuss Mountain Resort, with three kings, a stone fireplace, a bunk room with arcade and a treetop hot tub.
Check dates and book direct →Frequently asked questions
How long is the Chain of Lakes Water Trail?
More than 100 miles, across 12 connected lakes and rivers.
Where does the Chain of Lakes Water Trail start?
The chain runs from the upper lakes near Ellsworth down to Elk Rapids on Grand Traverse Bay. With 84 access sites, you can start almost anywhere.
Is the Chain of Lakes good for beginners?
Yes. The rivers, especially the Grass River and the Intermediate River through Bellaire, are calm and sheltered. Save the big lakes for calm days.
Who maintains the Chain of Lakes Water Trail?
Paddle Antrim, a local nonprofit, works with about 20 partners who own the access sites.
Sources
Trail details from Paddle Antrim. Checked October 2026.