Big Glen Lake

Glen Lake - Refined natural beauty with protected shoreline

Big Glen Lake

Classic scale with iconic Leelanau County setting

Overview

Located in Leelanau County near the village of Glen Arbor, Big Glen Lake is one of the region’s most recognized inland lakes, offering expansive water views and close proximity to Lake Michigan and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Big Glen Lake is a larger inland lake known for its clear water, open feel, and established shoreline. Lakefront properties range from traditional cottages to updated year-round homes, attracting buyers who value a classic Northern Michigan lake experience with room for recreation and long-term ownership.

Lake Character & Lifestyle

Big Glen Lake supports an active yet balanced lakefront lifestyle.

As an all-sports lake, it accommodates boating, water skiing, tubing, swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Despite its size and recreational use, activity is spread out, allowing the lake to feel comfortable rather than congested. Many owners appreciate the blend of summer energy and quieter shoulder seasons.

Big Glen Lake appeals to buyers seeking a traditional lake environment with space to enjoy both recreation and relaxation.

Shoreline & Water Considerations

Shoreline conditions on Big Glen Lake vary by location.

Properties differ in frontage width, depth, and bottom composition, influencing dock design, swimming access, and shoreline use. Some areas offer sandy, gradual entry, while others feature deeper water close to shore. Evaluating exposure, prevailing winds, and long-term shoreline maintenance is an important part of the buying process.

Location & Nearby Amenities

Big Glen Lake benefits from a highly desirable Leelanau County location.

Residents enjoy:
• Immediate access to Glen Arbor shops and dining
• Proximity to Lake Michigan beaches and Sleeping Bear Dunes
• Access to regional trail systems and outdoor recreation
• Reasonable driving distance to Traverse City for services and healthcare

Its location combines natural scenery with everyday convenience.

Zoning, Preservation & Long-Term Value

Big Glen Lake is regulated by local township and county zoning designed to manage shoreline density and preserve water quality.

Its size, visibility, and limited inventory contribute to consistent long-term demand. Properties with strong frontage, usable shoreline, and favorable exposure tend to hold value well within the Leelanau County lakefront market.

Is Big Glen Lake Right for You?

Big Glen Lake is best suited for buyers who:
• Want a larger lake with room for boating and recreation
• Value proximity to Glen Arbor and Lake Michigan
• Prefer a classic, established lakefront setting
• Seek a property suitable for both seasonal and long-term use

For buyers seeking scale, scenery, and tradition, Big Glen Lake offers enduring appeal.

Lake Size & Key Facts

• Surface area: approximately 4,000 acres
• Shoreline: approximately 21 miles
• Maximum depth: approximately 130 feet
• Water type: clear inland lake
• Drive time to Traverse City: approximately 40–45 minutes

Big Glen Lake’s size and location place it among Leelanau County’s most recognizable inland lakes.

Big Glen Lake vs. Little Glen Lake

A Side-by-Side Lakefront Comparison

Feature	Big Glen Lake	Little Glen Lake
Overall Scale	Large inland lake with expansive open water	Smaller, more intimate inland lake
Atmosphere	Active yet balanced	Quiet, calm, and residential
Boat Activity	All-sports lake	Limited-wake / no-wake
Best Suited For	Boating, water sports, multi-generational use	Kayaking, swimming, paddleboarding, relaxation
Water Views	Wide, panoramic lake views	Shorter, enclosed, serene views
Shoreline Character	Mix of sandy and deeper shorelines; varied exposure	Narrower frontage with natural vegetation
Home Styles	Cottages, legacy homes, and year-round residences	Modest cottages and thoughtfully scaled homes
Seasonal Energy	More activity during peak summer months	Consistently quiet throughout the season
Privacy Level	Moderate, varies by location	High, with limited traffic and density
Availability	Limited, competitive market	Very limited, properties tightly held
Location	Adjacent to Glen Arbor and Sleeping Bear Dunes	Same prime location with quieter daily rhythm
Long-Term Appeal	Strong for buyers seeking recreation and tradition	Strong for buyers seeking peace and simplicity

How to Choose Between Big and Little Glen Lake

Both lakes share the same desirable Glen Arbor location and natural beauty. The decision typically comes down to how you plan to use the lake.

Choose Big Glen Lake if you value open water, boating flexibility, and a classic Northern Michigan lake atmosphere.
Choose Little Glen Lake if you prioritize calm water, privacy, and a retreat-style environment with minimal activity.

Neither option is better — they simply serve different lifestyles.

Big Glen Lake

$2,995,000

6 Beds ⋅ 7 Baths ⋅ 1947576 MLS ⋅ N/A BLDG.

If you've been in search for the perfect Glen Lake property to create a family legacy property, you'll want to consider this spectacular new listing! Glen Lodge, the namesake of a former logging camp dwelling from yesteryear, was built in 1994 to provide modern utility for the current owners who are ready to pass the keys to their successors. Located within Glen Arbor Township's limited Resort Zoning district, the Lodge was constructed with the ability to share this unique setting with others by virtue of three lower level suites that have historically been utilized as short term rental spaces. Large multi-generational families will want to take advantage of what's been referred to as the North View, Middle View, and South View units, all with kitchens and private bathrooms, North & South with a private bedroom space, Middle a studio floor plan. The main level features three generously sized bedrooms, the master/primary enjoys lake facing views, a private deck, & nicely appointed bathroom. The other 2 bedrooms share a full bath with tub/shower & tile floors. 6 panel pine doors & trim, with T&G paneling on many of the sloped ceilings throughout the house, built-in cabinetry, ledge stone gas fireplace pay homage to the timeless architecture cottage motif. You'll love spending time with family & friends in the spacious great room, sharing meals in the lake side dining room, screened porch when Mother Nature doesn't cooperate, or on the massive water side deck when she does. Meals are a joy to prepare in the spacious kitchen, plenty of room for the chefs in the family, with room for the support staff to watch. A loft space that over looks the great room is a perfect spot for a home office/den, with 3/4 bath. Laundry stations on both levels, oversized 2 car garage, a wonderful open & wooded parcel with 131' of frontage, enjoy sun and moon rises, northern lights, & gradual drop off.

7953 S Glen Lake Road, Glen Arbor

$3,900,000

4 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ 1945399 MLS

Set on the coveted south end of Big Glen Lake with 90 feet of private sandy frontage, this stately cedar shake and brick residence offers a rare opportunity to create generations of memories in one of Leelanau County’s most treasured settings. Designed for gathering and relaxed lakefront living, the 4,041 sq ft home features four bedrooms plus additional den and recreation spaces, offering flexibility for hosting family and friends year-round. A welcoming brick courtyard framed with seasonal blooms creates an elegant first impression, while inside, expansive lake views and warm gathering spaces invite connection. The thoughtfully designed kitchen offers extensive cabinetry, abundant counter workspace, a center island, double ovens, and a unique fold-up countertop bridge connecting the island to the counter—perfect for additional prep space, casual dining, or buffet-style entertaining. Oak hardwood flooring flows from the foyer and hall through the kitchen and dining area, complementing the home’s timeless character and comfortable layout. The living room centers around a wood-burning fireplace, creating a cozy gathering place after long days on the lake while expansive windows frame beautiful views of Big Glen Lake. The main-floor primary suite, main-floor laundry, and oversized two-car garage with built-in storage provide convenience for everyday living, while the additional guest bedrooms, den, and rec room offer plenty of space for multi-generational enjoyment. Outside, two spacious lakefront patios provide exceptional outdoor living with ample room for grilling, entertaining, dining, and sunbathing just steps from the shoreline. Spend your days boating, swimming, paddleboarding, or relaxing along the sandy beach while taking in panoramic lake views. Perfectly positioned near renowned local favorites Funistrada and La Becasse, this combines peaceful waterfront living with convenient access to Sleeping Bear Dunes, and Glen Arbor.

4868 W Whispering Pines Lane, Glen Arbor

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