Ellsworth is a small village at the top of the Chain of Lakes, a quieter base than Bellaire with Lake Michigan close by and Charlevoix about 20 minutes away. It's where our Seven Pines Chalet and White Birch Cabin are, and it's a lovely place to slow down.
Parks and Ellsworth Lake
Ellsworth Community Park sits on about 4 acres on Ellsworth Lake. The village says it has Michigan's largest public outdoor archery range, plus a pavilion, a playground, a fishing pier and a dock, a 1.3-mile walking path, a labyrinth and a sledding hill for winter.
River Park has a small beach and a boat launch, across from Wooden Shoe Campground.
Paddling the upper Chain
The Chain of Lakes starts in the upper lakes near Ellsworth and runs south through lakes and rivers all the way to Elk Rapids. Paddle Antrim publishes a guide to the upper chain, and our Chain of Lakes Water Trail guide has the big picture.
Farm markets and a winery
- Friske's Farm Market: a fruit stand, bakery, café and general store, with seasonal activities for kids.
- Royal Farms, on US-31: a farm market and winery with seasonal fruit, baked goods and u-pick in season.
- Front Porch Cafe, 9235 Main St.: a small, friendly community café in the village.
Lake Michigan and Torch Lake nearby
Ellsworth is close to both big lakes. Seven Pines Chalet has a private nature trail to a Lake Michigan beach, about a four-minute walk, and it's about five minutes to Torch Lake Township Day Park and Antrim Creek. White Birch Cabin sits right on 100 feet of private Lake Michigan shoreline, in a protected bay with shallow water, with two kayaks and a paddleboard from mid-May to mid-October. See beaches near Bellaire.
Easy day trips
| Where | Why |
|---|---|
| Charlevoix, about 20 minutes | The pier, the lighthouse and Lake Michigan sunsets |
| Central Lake | Mammoth Distilling's cocktail lounge |
| Bellaire | Short's, Bee Well and Glacial Hills |
More on the wine, mead and distillery trail and day trips from Bellaire.
Tips
- Stock up before you arrive. Ellsworth is small, and many shops keep seasonal hours.
- Bring the kayaks. The upper chain is calm and quiet.
- Catch a Lake Michigan sunset at least once.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Ellsworth, Michigan?
In Antrim County at the top of the Chain of Lakes, close to Lake Michigan and about 20 minutes from Charlevoix.
Is there a beach in Ellsworth?
River Park has a small beach and a boat launch, and Lake Michigan beaches are a short drive. Seven Pines Chalet has a private trail to a Lake Michigan beach, and White Birch Cabin sits on its own Lake Michigan shoreline.
What is there to do in Ellsworth?
Visit Ellsworth Community Park and its archery range, paddle the upper Chain of Lakes, stop at Friske's and Royal Farms, and day-trip to Charlevoix.
Sources
Village of Ellsworth parks and beaches, Paddle Antrim, plus our own restaurant and beach guides and our listings for Seven Pines Chalet and White Birch Cabin. Checked November 1, 2026.