RIVER PHOTO BY JAMES DAKE/GRASS RIVER; SWAN PHOTO COURTESY OF MUCC.ORGWhat is true is that a sunny day will transform Torch Lake into an tropical retreat — its
varying depths painting the water an array of sapphire hues. It’s also exceptionally clear.
“It’s often referred to as the northern Caribbean, and you can see 30 feet down,”
notes Fabiano. “You have to experience it to understand it.”
One of the largest public access parks sits at the northern tip of Torch Lake in Eastport.
Head a bit east for freshly baked apple and cherry pies, hayrides and other seasonal fun at
the series of farm markets located along U.S. 31; or travel a mile inland to find Providence
Farms. The large organic farm runs a produce stand out front. It offers occasional cooking
classes and autumn gourmet farm dinners. On a recent day, an orphaned baby cow on a
leash lounged on the farmhouse porch and baby sheep grazed the front yard.
Alden, situated on a bend of a scenic country road on Torch’s southeast side, has been
compared to a New England hamlet with its charming shops and streets that end in the blue
of Torch. Take your picnic to the Depot Park and Museum; this was once the most popular stop
on the “Resort Special” route. Locals would gather to watch passengers disembark en route to the many
summer camps and cottages. Today, it’s a summer museum featuring historic photos and memorabilia.
Stroll to the Alden Mill House to sample blends for dips, cooking and summer grilling. Stop at
La Voie Designs for boutique clothing or The Pear Tree for local art.
Before entering the next stretch of the Chain, stop in for a bite to eat at Dockside; this local favorite
offers up fresh burgers, deli wraps and appetizers on the large lakeside deck.
Dewitt Marine — located at the mouth of Clam River on Torch Lake — is a full-service,
family-owned facility offering the best pontoon boat rentals in northern Michigan; new and used
boat sales; slips; boat service and repair; fuel; and a store to pick up extra provisions.
Some of the wildest stretches of the Chain follow as Torch flows into the Clam River, Clam Lake and
Grass River. There, the Grass River Natural Area protects 1,443 acres of wetlands. Navigable by boat, it
also offers hiking paths, events like loon pontoon viewing cruises, and guided paddles past the occasional
river otter, mink or muskrat. Here, you’re almost to Lake Bellaire and the town of Bellaire — the Antrim
County seat, a regional hub and a Mecca for golfers and microbrew fans.Grass River Natural AreaLAKELANDBOATING.COM | SEPTEMBER 2016 47POC_LowerChain_SEP16.indd 47 7/27/16 11:43 AM