Little Glen Lake

 

 

Little Glen Lake

Intimate scale with a quiet, residential character

Overview

Located directly across M-22 from Big Glen Lake, Little Glen Lake offers a distinctly quieter lakefront experience while sharing the same highly desirable Glen Arbor area location.

Little Glen Lake is a smaller inland lake known for its calm water, limited boat traffic, and low-density shoreline. Homes here are typically modest in scale and thoughtfully integrated into the landscape, appealing to buyers who prioritize privacy, simplicity, and a more tranquil setting.

Lake Character & Lifestyle

Little Glen Lake supports a peaceful, low-activity lakefront lifestyle.

With limited or no-wake boating, the lake is best suited for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and quiet enjoyment. Activity levels remain consistently low throughout the season, creating an environment that many owners value for relaxation and retreat-style living.

Little Glen Lake attracts buyers who place a premium on calm water and a slower pace.

Shoreline & Water Considerations

Shoreline characteristics on Little Glen Lake vary by property but are generally more intimate in scale.

Frontage widths, water depth, and bottom conditions differ, making careful evaluation important for swimming access and dock placement. Natural vegetation and limited disturbance contribute to the lake’s quiet character and long-term environmental stability.

Location & Nearby Amenities

Little Glen Lake shares the same strong location advantages as Big Glen Lake.

Residents enjoy:
• Close proximity to Glen Arbor and local dining
• Easy access to Lake Michigan beaches and public lands
• Nearby hiking and trail systems
• Reasonable driving distance to Traverse City

The lake offers seclusion without isolation.

Zoning, Preservation & Long-Term Value

Little Glen Lake is governed by zoning regulations that support limited shoreline development and preservation of its low-density character.

Because of its small size and limited number of lakefront homes, availability is rare. Properties tend to be tightly held, contributing to stable long-term value for buyers aligned with the lake’s quiet use profile.

Is Little Glen Lake Right for You?

Little Glen Lake is best suited for buyers who:
• Prefer minimal boat traffic and calm water
• Value privacy and a residential lake setting
• Seek a retreat-oriented environment
• Appreciate understated, low-impact lake living

For buyers prioritizing peace and simplicity, Little Glen Lake offers a refined alternative within the Glen Lake area.

Lake Size & Key Facts

• Surface area: approximately 500 acres
• Shoreline: approximately 5 miles
• Maximum depth: approximately 45 feet
• Water type: clear inland lake
• Drive time to Traverse City: approximately 40–45 minutes

 

Little Glen Lake’s smaller scale and quiet character distinguish it from larger nearby 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.

Little Glen Lake

$2,499,000
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 1944264 MLS ⋅ Na BLDG.
Little Glen Lake | South Shore Legacy Property| Rare Opportunity Set along 81 feet of pristine, hard-packed sandy frontage on the south shore of Little Glen Lake, this timeless lakefront estate captures the essence of Northern Michigan at its finest. Framed by a long, tree-lined approach, the property unfolds with a sense of arrival—private, peaceful, and deeply rooted in place. It's the kind of place that feels instantly known-Like a cherished cottage you've somehow always been connected to. Originally built in 1938 and thoughtfully maintained, the nearly 3,000 square foot home blends historic charm with spacious livability. Inside, you’ll find a series of inviting spaces—three bedrooms, three baths, and a collection of intimate nooks and architectural details that speak to a different era, carefully preserved for the next generation to enjoy. Expansive windows and outdoor living areas are oriented toward the water, where beautiful sunrise views stretch across Little Glen and reach toward the distant dunes. The setting is nothing short of captivating—calm mornings, sparkling water, and a landscape that changes beautifully with the seasons. The grounds are equally impressive. A generous lakeside yard offers space to gather, entertain, or simply unwind, while mature landscaping enhances both privacy and natural beauty. The recently installed, oversized septic system provides flexibility for future expansion, making this not only a place to enjoy today, but an investment in what’s possible tomorrow. Rarely does a property of this character and setting come to market. A true classic on Little Glen Lake—rich in history, elevated by its setting, and ready to be carried forward.

7822 W Welch Road, Empire
$2,295,000
3 Baths ⋅ 1936354 MLS ⋅ N/A BLDG.
Situated on 5 wooded acres with 172’ of sandy Glen Lake frontage, the Glen Lake Manor harkens back to simpler times when mid-western families were first discovering the wonders of this area. Operating in various forms since 1906 and through just 3 owners, the Manor has served host to lumbermen, vacationers, diners and wedding guests throughout its history, and is ready for a new owner to shepherd it into the future. A 2005 restoration was completed on the kitchen, dining area, restrooms and office space, along with a 2022/23 refresh and full-time operation of the restaurant could begin immediately. The 2nd story of the Manor has the original 13 rooms, with an unused attic space above that. One of the 2-bedroom cottages was recently remodeled, which could be a weekly rental or owner housing during the redevelopment. All buildings received new roofs in 2021. The Empire Township special use permit process was finalized in November 2024 which allows the Manor to be redeveloped with 9 en-suite guest rooms and 1 manager/owner suite, continuation of the 50 seat restaurant, a 20 seat lounge and use of the 3 free-standing rental cottages. A complete package of architectural and site plans is available to a new owner.

7345 W Glenmere Road, Empire
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