Long Lake — Grand Traverse County

Long Lake — Grand Traverse County

Large inland lake living with year-round versatility

Overview

Located in Grand Traverse County within close proximity to Traverse City, Long Lake is one of the area’s most well-known inland lakes, offering size, accessibility, and a broad range of lakefront living options.

Long Lake is a large inland lake known for its elongated shape, clear water, and diverse shoreline. Lakefront homes range from traditional cottages and mid-century residences to newer custom builds and year-round homes, appealing to buyers who value space, usability, and proximity to town.

Lake Character & Lifestyle

Long Lake supports an active yet livable lakefront lifestyle.

The lake is well suited for boating, swimming, fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Due to its size and accessibility, activity levels increase during peak summer months, particularly on weekends, while weekdays often feel calmer and more residential.

Long Lake attracts buyers seeking versatility — a lake that accommodates recreation and social use while still supporting year-round living.

Shoreline & Water Considerations

Shoreline characteristics on Long Lake vary by location.

Water depth, frontage width, bottom composition, and wind exposure differ throughout the lake. Some areas offer more protected conditions, while others experience greater open-water exposure. These factors influence dock placement, shoreline usability, and long-term maintenance considerations.

Evaluating micro-locations is especially important when selecting property on Long Lake.

Location & Nearby Amenities

Long Lake offers exceptional convenience within Grand Traverse County.

Residents enjoy:
• Short drive to downtown Traverse City
• Easy access to shopping, dining, and healthcare
• Nearby parks, trails, and recreational amenities
• Convenient access to regional roadways

This combination of lakefront living and everyday accessibility defines Long Lake’s appeal.

Zoning, Preservation & Long-Term Value

Long Lake is governed by local township and county zoning regulations that support controlled shoreline development and water quality preservation.

Its size, strong demand, and year-round usability contribute to stable long-term value, particularly for buyers seeking a balance between lifestyle enjoyment and practicality.

Is Long Lake Right for You?

Long Lake is best suited for buyers who:
• Enjoy an active lake environment with boating and recreation
• Value proximity to Traverse City
• Seek a lake that supports year-round living
• Appreciate a range of property styles and settings

For buyers looking for a larger inland lake with versatility and convenience, Long Lake remains one of Grand Traverse County’s most enduring lakefront destinations.

Lake Size & Key Facts

• Surface area: approximately 2,860 acres
• Shoreline: approximately 21 miles
• Maximum depth: approximately 90 feet
• Water type: clear inland lake
• Drive time to Traverse City: approximately 10–15 minutes

 

Long Lake’s size, accessibility, and adaptability make it a cornerstone of the Grand Traverse County inland lakefront real estate market.

Quiet vs. Active Spectrum Positioning

Within the context of Grand Traverse County inland lakes, Long Lake sits toward the more active end of the quiet-to-active spectrum, though conditions vary noticeably by location and time of week.

• Quieter stretches tend to be found in narrower or more protected areas of the lake, particularly during weekdays and shoulder seasons.
• More active areas are typically those with broader open water, heavier boat access, and closer proximity to public launches, especially on summer weekends.

 

Overall, Long Lake offers a balanced experience — more activity than smaller residential lakes such as Tibbets or Silver Lake, but still less intense than highly recreational destination lakes. This makes it appealing to buyers who enjoy energy and social boating, while still valuing livability and year-round usability.

Long Lake — Grand Traverse County

620 Lakewood Road, Traverse City
$1,995,000
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 1951952 MLS ⋅ Pickeral Point BLDG.
Few properties on Long Lake can match the setting of this private point, with 316 feet of frontage and water surrounding the property on three sides. Expansive lake views, an extended sandy bottom, and two docks create an exceptional waterfront experience, whether you're swimming, boating, or fishing for bass and walleye. With this much frontage and such a distinctive location, opportunities to own a property like this are exceptionally limited on Long Lake. Mature trees frame the property, providing shade and privacy while preserving expansive views across the lake. Enjoy sunrises and moonrises over the water, listen to the loons that return to nest nearby each year, and take advantage of the quiet setting along the shoreline. A composite rear deck extends the outdoor living space, creating a comfortable place to relax and take in the surroundings. Inside, the three-bedroom, two-bath home offers classic Up North character and a comfortable layout ready to enjoy from day one. The vaulted living room features a soaring wood-burning fireplace with stacked stone, creating a natural gathering place throughout the seasons. Hardwood floors extend through the main living area, while original pine walls add character to the dining room, where abundant windows bring in natural light and capture views of the surrounding water. The home offers an inviting, move-in-ready opportunity to enjoy immediately, with the flexibility to personalize or expand the footprint in the future if desired. An attached two-car garage and a detached boathouse garage provide additional space for vehicles, boats, lake toys, and recreational equipment. With its distinctive point setting, 316 feet of private frontage, sandy swimming area, two docks, and a home ready to enjoy, this property offers a rare opportunity to own a truly distinctive piece of Long Lake waterfront.

620 Lakewood Road, Traverse City
13956 Parallel Avenue, Alpena
$624,900
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 1951884 MLS ⋅ Big Gravelly Subdivision BLDG.
LAKEFRONT LIVING ON LONG LAKE! Enjoy the beauty of Northern Michigan waterfront living with this unique two-lot property in Presque Isle Township, just outside Alpena! Offering 100 feet of frontage on the highly coveted east side of beautiful Long Lake, this 2178 sq ft, 3 bedroom, 2 bath home has been remodeled and updated over the years, including a new roof just 2 yrs old. Primary Bedroom Suite overlooks the lake with private bath & extensive 2 sink vanity. Inside, you'll find spacious living area with large, oversized windows offering panoramic views of Long Lake along the back of the home where you’ll witness the most stunning sunsets! Great entertaining home with formal dining room, living room, fireplace, inviting sunroom, lots of storage space, numerous closets, and oak hardwood floors throughout including the closet floors! A backup wood burning furnace is included, and an extra-large utility/mudroom at the second entrance connects to a 1 car oversized garage. Step out back onto the large deck, perfect for morning coffee, outdoor dining or relaxing while enjoying the lake views. Mature trees and stone wall add to the property's natural charm and privacy. Outdoor Garden/Storage shed provides additional space for lake gear and outdoor essentials. Enjoy direct private lake access. Boat dock is included ready for your days of boating, fishing, and enjoying life on the water. Adding value is the second 0.23-acre lot directly across the street, complete with an impressive 30' x 40' secondary garage offering ample room for vehicles, watercraft, recreational equipment, workshop space, and seasonal storage. This additional parcel offers even more flexibility and convenience for your Up North lifestyle. Combined, these two parcels total approx. 0.574 acres, creating a special opportunity for year-round residence, seasonal retreat, or lakefront getaway. Two lots, 100 feet of Long Lake frontage, and spacious storage building—bring your Up North dreams to life!

13956 Parallel Avenue, Alpena
5500 Seneca Trail, Gaylord
$379,900
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 1951603 MLS ⋅ Navajo Lake Estates BLDG.
Welcome to your own storybook lakefront retreat, tucked away on 1.3 beautifully wooded acres with a picturesque, tree-lined driveway leading you home. Set along the shores of a peaceful 17-acre lake with no public access, this special property offers a wonderful sense of privacy and tranquility. Enjoy beautiful lake views from inside and out, along with your own aluminum dock and private boat launch area right on the property—perfect for fishing, kayaking, swimming or simply relaxing by the water. Inside, large windows and a sliding glass door fill the home with natural light while showcasing views of the lake and surrounding woods. The home has been extensively and creatively updated, including an updated kitchen and baths, while still maintaining the warmth and character that make it truly one of a kind. Thoughtful and whimsical touches are found throughout the home, including a fun indoor swing, a cozy reading nook tucked beneath the stairs, and an adorable former closet creatively transformed into built-in bunk beds with custom mattresses—a favorite little hideaway for kids and overnight guests. A basement with its own exterior entrance provides convenient additional storage. Numerous improvements have already been completed, including new siding and windows in 2018, natural gas, a newer furnace and a new water heater. Whether you're looking for a year-round lakefront home or a peaceful Northern Michigan getaway, this property offers a rare combination of privacy, charm, mature woods and waterfront living—all on your own little corner of the lake.

5500 Seneca Trail, Gaylord
3810 Deer Ridge Trail, Beulah
$1,200,000
3 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 1951455 MLS ⋅ Long Lake Heights BLDG.
Tucked into the trees above Long Lake, this one-of-a-kind custom home offers direct lake frontage, privacy, and a true Northern Michigan setting. Long Lake is one of Benzie County’s best-kept secrets—peaceful, scenic, and ideal for swimming, fishing, sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, pontooning, and quiet days on the water. Nesting loons and eagles add to the natural beauty and make this an exceptional place to enjoy the changing seasons. A stairway leads to the waterfront, while the working tram provides another way to reach the lake. At the shoreline, relax on the dock, enjoy the water, or spend time in the lakefront cabana overlooking Long Lake. The seller intentionally preserved the wooded setting to maintain a private, treehouse-like feel. Through the trees are glimpses of Long Lake and sneak peeks of the Sleeping Bear Dunes in the distance. A future owner may choose to selectively open the view while maintaining the privacy and character of the property. Two distinctive octagonal wings are connected by a dramatic central living room featuring vaulted wood ceilings, exposed beams, hardwood floors, expansive windows, and a striking stone fireplace. The adjoining kitchen and dining area create a natural gathering space at the heart of the home. One entire octagonal wing is dedicated to the primary suite with a spacious bedroom, attached office or sitting room, large walk-in closet, laundry room, and private bath with dual vanities and a jetted soaking tub. The walkout lower level offers multiple exterior entrances and access to the attached garage, while the main living level can be reached by stairs or ramp. Newer Generac generator for added peace. Conveniently located between Beulah and Frankfort, with Crystal Lake, Lake Michigan, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, and endless Up North recreation nearby, this is a truly special Long Lake property with character, privacy, and a waterfront lifestyle all its own.

3810 Deer Ridge Trail, Beulah
1299 Cedar Drive, Traverse City
$1,200,000
5 Beds ⋅ 4 Baths ⋅ 1950986 MLS ⋅ Long Lake Peninsula BLDG.
This beautifully appointed home offers all the features desired for everyday living and entertaining. With 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, there is room for everyone, with one of the bedrooms easily serving as a dedicated home office. The private primary suite features a spacious ensuite bath with double sinks and a low-threshold tiled shower with two shower heads. The open main-level floor plan creates an inviting flow between the living, dining, and kitchen areas. Cherry cabinetry, recently polished Corian countertops, a large walk-in pantry, and newer appliances make the kitchen both attractive and functional. A two-sided gas fireplace provides a cozy focal point between the living and dining areas. A comfortable den features a gas fireplace and granite-topped bar—perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Surround sound and a central vacuum system add convenient extras. The upper-level bedrooms are complemented by conveniently located laundry facilities. Solid wood doors throughout the home add a quality touch, while the new roof in 2024 provides peace of mind. The garage is a standout feature, offering 4+ car capacity with room for storage—a rare find for multiple vehicles, recreational equipment, or workshop needs. It is insulated, heated with natural gas, finished with an epoxy floor, and equipped with new LED lighting. A utility sink and plumbing for a washer and dryer add even more versatility, while attic storage provides additional space. Outside, enjoy the irrigated yard, a fenced and irrigated area for a small garden. The home sits on .41 ac AND includes a 2nd .24 ac adjacent vacant lot. The front porch and patio steps feature new composite decking. A 220-volt outlet on the back patio is ready for a future hot tub, an outdoor space ideal for relaxing and entertaining. A gas-powered generator is included with the home. And the amenities extend beyond the property. Owners have shared access to a beach and boat launch on Long Lake. Up North MI at its best!

1299 Cedar Drive, Traverse City
17131 Paradise Cove Road, Alpena
$180,000
2 Beds ⋅ 1 Baths ⋅ 1950230 MLS
Your Up North getaway is waiting on beautiful Long Lake! This classic 1950s 2-bedroom, 1-bath cottage offers direct waterfront and an affordable opportunity to own on one of Northeast Michigan's most desirable inland lakes. The cottage is a fixer upper, with its original Up North character still intact and plenty of potential for someone ready to make it their own. It's situated on .32 acre with a detached garage, private well and septic, and wall furnace. The property is tucked off a quiet road with a shared driveway and sits along a small cove, offering more protected water for swimming, paddling and docking while still providing access to all of Long Lake. Spend your days boating, fishing and enjoying the water, then come back to your own little place at the lake. Whether you renovate the existing cottage into a charming waterfront retreat or simply embrace its rustic cabin feel, this is an opportunity to make your own memories on Long Lake.

17131 Paradise Cove Road, Alpena
2624 Crescent Shores Drive, Traverse City
$1,599,000
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 1950147 MLS ⋅ Metes And Bounds BLDG.
Legacy property on the crystal waters of all-sports Long Lake! This is the kind of cherished property that is passed down the generations. Featuring 113' of A+ frontage on ultra-desirable Long Lake, this half-acre+ property offers a rippled, hard-sand bottom and a sugar-sand beach, along with one of the few remaining boat houses on the lake. The home itself offers classic cottage style but with the ability to be enjoyed year-round. Highlights include wide windows overlooking the lake (with a southeastern exposure for glorious sunrise views), a main level laundry, and a wood-burning fireplace. Enjoy meals on top of the boat house for a slightly raised view of the water. The oversized 2-car garage is ideal for storage. The pontoon boat and boat lift are negotiable, while the private dock is included in the sale. It's hard to find a waterfront setting quite as perfect as this - sand beach, sand bottom, crystal-clear waters - your opportunity to start your family legacy awaits!

2624 Crescent Shores Drive, Traverse City
9321 N Long Lake Road, Traverse City
$1,899,000
5 Baths ⋅ 1950006 MLS
This exceptional Long Lake offering with 143 feet of private sandy beach frontage, a main home, and separate cottages is a prime opportunity for both personal enjoyment and income. The boathouse on the property is an additional bonus with lot's of storage for toys and lawn equipment. Just a short drive from downtown Traverse City, this property offers the best of lake living with the flexibility to use it in a variety of ways. Enjoy boating, swimming, sunsets, and summer days on the water, while the additional cottages provide excellent potential for rental income, guest accommodations, or extended family. The property’s Hamlet zoning designation allows for commercial uses, adding even more flexibility and opportunity for the next owner. Whether envisioned as a private family retreat, vacation rental, investment property, or a combination of uses, the possibilities are plentiful. With Long Lake at your doorstep and Traverse City, Lake Ann, and Silver Lake nearby, this is a truly special property with rare waterfront, multiple structures, flexible zoning, and strong income-producing potential.

9321 N Long Lake Road, Traverse City
000 Deer Ridge Trail, Beulah
$95,000
1949290 MLS ⋅ Long Lake Heights BLDG.
Step away from the well beaten path and live on a quiet cut da sac with few neighbors AND have shared water frontage on none motorized Long Lake, hiking trails at Embayment Lakes Nature Preserve. Take in the Muse on your Kayak from your secluded water frontage. Several close by public access points on Crystal Lake as well. Lot is located on the north side of Crystal Lake on a hillside. Lot has a nice rise with sloping topography, perfect for a walk out with potential seasonal waterfront views. Just a short drive from the quaint towns of Beulah, Honor & Frankfort. Amenities in these towns include Beautiful Beaches, Sleeping Bear Dunes, Hiking Trails, Boat Launches, Unique Shopping, and Restaurants & The Last of Drive-In Movie Theaters. Keeping it Simple and Franchise Free in this Northern Michigan Jewel. https://www.gtrlc.org/recreation-events/preserve/embayment-lakes-nature-preserve/

000 Deer Ridge Trail, Beulah
9321 N Long Lake Road, Traverse City
$1,899,000
7 Beds ⋅ 3 Baths ⋅ 1949233 MLS
A rare Long Lake offering with 143 feet of private sandy beach frontage, a main home, and separate cottages—creating an exceptional opportunity for both personal enjoyment and income. The boathouse on the property is an additional bonus with lot's of storage for toys and lawn equipment. Just a short drive from downtown Traverse City, this property offers the best of lake living with the flexibility to use it in a variety of ways. Enjoy boating, swimming, sunsets, and summer days on the water, while the additional cottages provide excellent potential for rental income, guest accommodations, or extended family. The property’s Hamlet zoning designation allows for commercial uses, adding even more flexibility and opportunity for the next owner. Whether envisioned as a private family retreat, vacation rental, investment property, or a combination of uses, the possibilities are plentiful. With Long Lake at your doorstep and Traverse City, Lake Ann, and Silver Lake nearby, this is a truly special property with rare waterfront, multiple structures, flexible zoning, and strong income-producing potential.

9321 N Long Lake Road, Traverse City
759 N South Long Lake Road, Traverse City
$2,150,000
4 Beds ⋅ 5 Baths ⋅ 1948937 MLS ⋅ Dyes Add To Evergreen Beach BLDG.
Never before offered, this cherished Long Lake estate presents a rare opportunity to own one of Traverse City's most private and treasured waterfront properties. Nestled on more than 2 wooded acres with 115 feet of crystal-clear private frontage, the home is tucked beneath mature hardwoods at the end of a private drive, creating a setting that feels worlds away while remaining just minutes from downtown. Thoughtfully designed with expansive gathering spaces that flow effortlessly to the lakeside, the home captures breathtaking water views and invites year-round entertaining, quiet mornings, and unforgettable summer evenings. Two detached garages offering a combined seven stalls provide exceptional space for vehicles, boats, recreational equipment, hobbies, or workshop needs. Whether envisioned as a cherished family home for generations to come, properties that offer this level of privacy, timeless character, abundant storage, and a premier Long Lake setting rarely become available.

759 N South Long Lake Road, Traverse City
8131 Hillside Drive, Traverse City
$450,000
3 Beds ⋅ 2 Baths ⋅ 1948230 MLS ⋅ Peninsula Estates BLDG.
Nestled among mature trees on Long Lake Peninsula, this one-owner custom home offers a rare combination of privacy, natural beauty, and convenience. Located directly across from Doerr Park and including private access to Long Lake Peninsula's members-only boat launch, you'll enjoy all the benefits of Long Lake access while taking advantage of lower non-waterfront property taxes. Inside, the 3-bedroom, 2-bath home is filled with natural light thanks to soaring vaulted ceilings, a skylight, and an open floor plan that creates an inviting, airy feel. A cozy fireplace anchors the main living space, while the spacious deck provides the perfect place to entertain, or relax and take in the peaceful wooded surroundings. The walkout lower level has a huge unused space and offers abundant office space with endless possibilities for recreation, hobbies, or guests. A partially completed sauna is ready for your finishing touches, with materials already onsite, allowing you to customize the space to your own vision. Lovingly built and meticulously maintained by its original owner, this home is being offered for the first time. Tucked away on Long Lake Peninsula, you're just minutes from downtown Traverse City's dining, shopping, and recreation while enjoying the quiet setting and outdoor lifestyle that make the Long Lake Peninsula so special.

8131 Hillside Drive, Traverse City
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