Torch Lake is Michigan's longest inland lake, known for its clear, blue water. Homes right on the shore are rare and expensive, and they book up a year out. Staying a short drive away gets you the same lake days for a lot less, plus more room and amenities like hot tubs and game rooms.
These are the homes we host near Torch Lake.
Close to Torch Lake
| Home | Town | To Torch Lake | Sleeps |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alm Haus | Bellaire | About 15 minutes | 12 |
| Northwoods Treehaus | Bellaire (Schuss Mountain) | About 15 minutes | 9 |
| Overlook Bellaire | Bellaire | Short drive, on the Chain of Lakes | 16 |
| Seven Pines Chalet | Ellsworth | Short drive | 9 |
| White Birch Cabin | Ellsworth | About 5 minutes | 10 |
Alm Haus and Northwoods Treehaus
Both homes are in the woods near Schuss Mountain, about 15 minutes from Torch Lake. Spend the day on the water, then come back to a hot tub, a game room and the Shanty Creek pools.
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 →Overlook Bellaire
Overlook sits in the middle of the Chain of Lakes, on a hilltop overlooking Intermediate Lake. Torch Lake, Elk Lake and Lake Bellaire are all nearby. It sleeps 16, which makes it a great pick for a big summer lake trip.
Seven Pines Chalet
Seven Pines in Ellsworth gives you two lakes in one trip: a private trail to a Lake Michigan beach a few minutes away, and Torch Lake a short drive away.
White Birch Cabin
White Birch is a log cabin on its own stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline in Ellsworth, about five minutes from Torch Lake, so you can spend one day on each. Kayaks and a paddleboard are included in season.
Planning a Torch Lake trip
- The sandbar at the south end of Torch Lake is the classic summer hangout. Weekends get busy, so a weekday visit is calmer.
- No boat? Rent one. Several marinas around Torch Lake and the Chain of Lakes rent pontoons by the day or half day. Book ahead in July and August.
- Go beyond Torch. The Chain of Lakes connects Lake Bellaire, Intermediate Lake and more, and the paddling is great.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Bellaire from Torch Lake?
Torch Lake is about 15 minutes from the Bellaire homes near Schuss Mountain. Bellaire sits on the Chain of Lakes, which flows into Torch Lake.
Is it cheaper to stay near Torch Lake instead of on it?
Usually, yes. Homes right on the shore come at a premium. Staying a short drive away often gets you more space and amenities for the same budget.