The Antrim County Chain-O-Lakes is one of the most attractive inland waterways to be found anywhere. The lakes are deep and the water is remarkably pure. Water pollution has thankfully remained minimal and the clear waters are a testament to the region’s beauty and the dedication of the citizenry to safeguard this resource.

All of the lakes and land whose rainwater and streams eventually feed into Elk River are collectively known as the Elk River Chain of Lakes Watershed. This includes territory as far away from Elk Rapids as Elmira, 30 miles to the east, and the small lakes north of Ellsworth, 25 miles to the north. The basin includes 490 square miles, of which approximately 60 square miles is water. The Chain of Lakes Michigan refers to a 75-mile-long waterway consisting of 14 lakes and connecting rivers that run through Antrim County in the northwestern section of the Lower Peninsula.

Elk Lake is the second largest and final lake in the waterways system. The outflow of Elk Lake, the Elk River, flows a short distance to a power dam in Elk Rapids, then out into the East Arm of Grand Traverse Bay. For most of its length, “the chain” is navigable by small boat, broken up only by a dam in Bellaire. Larger boats are able to navigate between Elk Rapids and Torch Lake.

For more information about navigating this beautiful resource, stop into the Elk Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce office for information about making the most out of your trip.