Torch Lake (Antrim County, Michigan) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Torch Lake |
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View from Torch Lake Township
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 Torch Lake
Location in Michigan
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| Location | Antrim County, Kalkaska County, Michigan |
| Coordinates | 44°59′00″N 85°18′30″W / 44.98333°N 85.30833°W |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Max. length | 19 miles (31 km) |
| Max. width | 2 miles (3.2 km) |
| Surface area | 18,770 acres (7,600 ha) |
| Average depth | 111 ft (34 m) |
| Max. depth | 285 ft (87 m) |
| Water volume | 0.78 cu mi (3.3 km3) |
| Surface elevation | 591 feet (180 m) |
| Islands | None |
| Settlements | Alden, Eastport, Clam River, Torch Lake, Kewadin |
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Torch Lake is an amazing natural wonder located in Antrim County and Kalkaska County, Michigan. It is Michigan's longest inland lake, stretching about 19 miles (31 km) from end to end. It is also the state's second largest inland lake by area, covering over 18,770 acres (76 km²).
This huge lake is also Michigan's deepest inland lake, reaching a maximum depth of 285 feet (87 meters). Its average depth is 111 feet (34 meters). Because it is so deep, Torch Lake holds the most water of any inland lake in Michigan. Many towns and villages are found along its shores, including Alden and Eastport.
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Discover Torch Lake's Unique Features
Torch Lake is known for its stunning beauty and clear, bright turquoise water. Many people say it looks like the Caribbean Sea! This makes it a very popular spot for outdoor activities.
What Makes Torch Lake Special?
- Clear Water: The lake's water is incredibly clear, giving it a beautiful turquoise color. This is why it's often compared to tropical waters.
- Outdoor Fun: It's a great place for nature lovers. You can enjoy hiking, canoeing, and fishing.
- Fishing Paradise: The lake is home to many kinds of fish. Popular catches include lake trout, yellow perch, smallmouth bass, muskellunge, and rainbow trout.
How Did Torch Lake Get Its Name?
The name "Torch Lake" might make you think of its shape, but that's not how it got its name! The name comes from the Ojibwa Native American people. They called it "Was-wa-gon-ong," which means "Place of the Torches."
Long ago, the local Native Americans would use torches at night. They would shine the torches on the water to attract fish. This made it easier to catch fish with spears and nets. For a while, European settlers called it "Torch Light Lake," but eventually, it was shortened to "Torch Lake."
Exploring the Chain of Lakes
Torch Lake is an important part of a larger system of waterways called the Chain of Lakes. This system connects many lakes and rivers in northern Michigan.
How the Chain of Lakes Works
The journey of water through the Chain of Lakes starts in northern Antrim County.
- It begins with Six Mile Lake.
- Water flows from Six Mile Lake into Lake Bellaire through the Intermediate River.
- Next, the Grass River carries water from Lake Bellaire into Clam Lake.
- From Clam Lake, the short Clam River flows directly into Torch Lake.
- Finally, Torch Lake drains into Lake Skegemog through the Torch River.
- Lake Skegemog then connects to Elk Lake, which eventually flows into Grand Traverse Bay at Elk Rapids.
This amazing network of lakes and rivers makes the area a fantastic place to explore by boat or kayak!
