Torch Lake

Torch Lake - Iconic clarity and expansive lakefront living


Overview

Torch Lake is one of Northern Michigan’s most recognizable and visually striking lakes, nationally known for its exceptional water clarity and vibrant turquoise color. Located in Antrim County, Torch Lake stretches nearly twenty miles, offering expansive frontage, deep water, and a wide range of lakefront property options.

Lakefront homes on Torch Lake range from classic summer cottages to architecturally significant custom estates. Because of the lake’s size and popularity, conditions can vary dramatically by location—making thoughtful guidance essential when selecting the right property.


Lake Character & Lifestyle

Torch Lake supports an active, social lakefront lifestyle.

The lake is popular for boating, swimming, and entertaining, particularly during peak summer months. Certain areas of the lake experience higher boat traffic, while others offer more protected, quieter environments. Buyers often prioritize location carefully to balance activity levels with privacy.

Torch Lake attracts a mix of second-home owners, multi-generational families, and legacy buyers who value both lifestyle enjoyment and long-term desirability.


Shoreline & Water Considerations

Shoreline characteristics on Torch Lake vary significantly.

Many areas offer deep, clear water ideal for boating and swimming, while bottom composition ranges from sand to mixed materials depending on location. Prevailing winds, wave exposure, and orientation should be considered when evaluating dock placement, shoreline usability, and long-term maintenance.

These variables make local insight particularly valuable when assessing Torch Lake properties.


Location & Nearby Amenities

Despite its expansive size, Torch Lake remains conveniently located.

Residents enjoy:

  • Easy access to nearby towns such as Bellaire, Alden, and Elk Rapids
  • Proximity to golf courses, dining, and shopping
  • Reasonable driving distance to Traverse City
  • Nearby Lake Michigan access via Elk Lake

This combination of beauty and accessibility contributes to Torch Lake’s enduring appeal.


Zoning, Preservation & Long-Term Value

Torch Lake spans multiple townships, each with its own zoning and shoreline regulations. Setback requirements, dock allowances, and development potential can vary depending on location.

Because Torch Lake is a highly sought-after destination, informed property selection plays a critical role in preserving long-term enjoyment and value.


Is Torch Lake Right for You?

Torch Lake is best suited for buyers who:

  • Enjoy an active boating and social lake environment
  • Value deep, clear water and expansive views
  • Are seeking a destination lake with national recognition
  • Understand the importance of selecting the right location on the lake

For buyers seeking an iconic Northern Michigan lakefront experience, Torch Lake continues to stand apart.


Explore Torch Lake Lakefront Homes

Current lakefront and waterfront homes on Torch Lake are featured below. Availability changes frequently, and not all opportunities are publicly marketed.

For buyers who value discretion and efficiency, a private conversation often helps identify the most suitable options.


Torch Lake

$349,000
3 Beds 1 Baths 1950238 MLS Ladd's South Torch Woods BLDG.
Torch Lake shared deeded frontage is the true highlight of this special Northern Michigan retreat! Enjoy 66' of deeded, shared private beach access on the sandy south end of beautiful Torch Lake. The golden sandy beach and crystal clear water are perfect for swimming, kayaking, or relaxing at the water’s edge. The famous Torch Lake sandbar and many area boat launches are close by, making it easy to enjoy everything the lake has to offer. This charming, year round home is being sold turn-key, including most furnishings. It is currently enjoyed as a three bedroom vacation rental with a successful rental history and reviews on Airbnb, offering flexibility as an income property and/or your own affordable Torch Lake getaway. Inside, the home features a cozy kitchen equipped with modern appliances and leathered granite countertops beautifully complemented by a combination of original and newer tongue and groove knotty pine throughout. The house has been well maintained and features new in 2022 a wall furnace, well, and septic system, plus a brand-new outdoor shower added this year. The utility room provides storage and a washer and dryer, while the shed offers plenty of space for kayaks, lake toys, outdoor equipment, and gear. After a day enjoying the sandy shores and crystal clear waters of Torch Lake, return home to relax around the campfire and enjoy the view of the stars. Set on a paved, county maintained dead end road, surrounded by woods, this property offers a quiet setting while keeping you close to Torch Lake, Torch River and the Chain Of Lakes for boating, swimming, kayaking, fishing and exploring. Winter skiing, snowmobiling and ice fishing are all available when the seasons change. Traverse City is 30 minutes away, Kalkaska, Bellaire and Elk Rapids are all 15 minutes from the house. This is a wonderful opportunity to own an affordable piece of the Torch Lake lifestyle and create lasting memories for years to come.

7674 Ladd Drive, Rapid City

$2,999,000
5 Beds 3 Baths 1950108 MLS Metes And Bounds BLDG.
171’ of FRONTAGE | 2.65 ACRES | BUILT 2025 | TURNKEY WITH 2025 SYLVAN TRITOON, SHORESTATION, DOCK & DESIGNER FURNISHINGS A rare opportunity to step directly into the Torch Lake lifestyle. Set well back from US-31 on 2.65 wooded acres, this Scandinavian-inspired home offers 171 feet of private Torch Lake frontage, exceptional privacy and your own boardwalk winding through the woods to that unmistakable turquoise water. Built in 2025, the home is warm, restrained and timeless. Natural wood ceilings soar above polished concrete floors, while walls of glass pull the forest into the living space and oversized doors erase the boundary between indoors and the covered lakeside patio. In-floor heat throughout, natural gas and freestanding fireplaces provide year-round comfort. The kitchen follows the same philosophy: beautiful without trying too hard. Natural wood cabinetry, expansive quartz surfaces, an oversized island, quality appliances and understated brass details create a space designed as much for gathering as cooking. High-quality furnishings professionally selected by Ella's of TC to complement the architecture remain with the home.Outside, the property has deliberately been kept wonderfully private. Keep the wooded setting exactly as it is, or selectively open the view and reveal more of Torch Lake. Periodic natural mosquito-control fogging, typically just a couple of treatments each year, keeps the wooded outdoor spaces remarkably pleasant while being mindful of beneficial insects and surrounding wildlife. The Boat, a 250 HP 2025 24-foot Sylvan L3 RLZ Tritoon, ShoreStation, dock and waterfront equipment are included. There is nothing here to assemble one piece at a time. The house, furnishings, boat and waterfront setup are ready. Bring your clothes. Bring the people you love. This home wasn't created as someone's version of a "lake house." It was created as home—private, peaceful, beautifully uncomplicated. Now it is time for someone to make it their home.

2370 US-31 N, Kewadin

$1,875,000
3 Beds 3 Baths 1950076 MLS Metes & Bounds BLDG.
A TORCH LAKE SETTING offering you the seclusion and privacy you seek on a wooded setting and a private road. Step inside this Victorian Style home to discover the attention to detail, beautiful oak woodwork throughout, lovingly cared for waterfront home waiting to welcome a new family. The living room is enhanced by a fireplace and hardwood floors. Relax in the family room in front of the second fireplace. A delightful and spacious kitchen with island, bar seating, granite countertops and gorgeous cabinetry. A light filled dining room will be the place to gather for meals and lively game nights. Over 2,000 sq. ft. of living space, 3 bedrooms, 2 ½ baths; detached garage; maintenance free Trex decking, newer exterior lighting and so much more. The primary bedroom suite features a cozy bay window with en suite bath. Effortless outdoor entertaining will be yours with an outdoor kitchen, plentiful seating areas and a patio with built in firepit at the lakeside. Imagine boating on the clear blue water of Torch Lake from your private 82’ of frontage, discover the joys of waterfront living with miles of shoreline to explore. The large wrap around porch facing the lake will be the perfect place to enjoy the evening sunsets. If you have been considering a waterfront home, whether year around or a getaway retreat, this may be the place to start creating new memories with your family and friends.

10888 Quin Sig A Mond Lane, Central Lake

$3,600,000
3 Beds 4 Baths 1950036 MLS Evans Resort BLDG.
TRULY ONE OF TORCH LAKE’S MOST UNIQUE HOMES! Western Lodge meets northern Michigan offering you premier lake living at its finest. As you begin your tour of this unique home you will discover exceptional construction by one of the area’s premier builders and one-of-a-kind custom details throughout. Touring this exceptional home is the best way to appreciate the pinnacle of design, with over 3,800 sq. ft. of living space; 3 bedrooms, 3 ½ baths; soaring ceilings and stunning woodwork it truly is a masterpiece. A local craftsman lovingly built the massive boulder fireplace in the living room where you will enjoy quiet evenings in front of roaring fire. The professionally designed kitchen features unique birch bark cabinetry, stone farmhouse sink, island with bar seating and stainless appliances. Enjoy views of your piece of paradise from the expansive windows in the dining area. The primary suite features unique lodge inspired details and a private bath with stone shower. Start your day with morning coffee and your favorite newspaper on the covered porch. Your guests will appreciate having their own space in the one bedroom, 1 ½ bath guest house with full kitchen. There is also a kid’s playhouse/bunkhouse with unlimited possibilities. Beautiful professional landscaping creates abundant outdoor entertaining space, with multiple seating areas thoughtfully integrated among native plantings. Stone walkways and patios, a large outdoor fireplace, and an outdoor kitchen make it easy to gather, grill, and relax. Above one of the boathouses, an elevated dining area offers a peaceful setting for alfresco meals and stunning lake views. Settle in on your private 227 feet of frontage, watch the kids frolic in the clear blue water, and enjoy a place where family memories will be made year after year. Two boathouses provide ideal storage for all your water toys. The waterside firepit will be perfect for roasting marshmallows while watching the sunset over the lake.

4719 NE Torch Lake Drive, Central Lake

$3,495,000
4 Beds 5 Baths 1949708 MLS Minnie-Wa-Wa BLDG.
SUNSETS OVER TORCH LAKE from this newly listed home on 140 feet of premier frontage. Over 4500 sq. ft. of exquisite living space will be yours to enjoy from this immaculate home on the shores of Torch Lake. As you enter the foyer you will be impressed by the openness and natural light from the wall of windows showcasing the views. The spacious living room features hardwood floors, beamed vaulted ceilings, and a stone fireplace. A gourmet kitchen enhanced by a large island, quartz countertops, double wall ovens, two dishwashers, icemaker, beverage fridge and more. The study/den offers a quiet retreat for working from home. Invite your friends over for game night in the three-season sun room while enjoying the views. Relax in the main floor primary suite complemented by a fireplace, sitting room, dual walk-in closets, luxurious bath with soaking tub, separate shower and more. Upstairs discover a reading loft, two ensuite bedrooms each with walk-in closets and private baths. The guest house has a stone fireplace, cathedral ceilings, full kitchen, stainless appliances, two bedrooms and bathroom. The 3-car detached garage offers living space above, perfect for your workout room, media room or a rec room plus large storage room on the main floor. Additional amenities include 3 bedrooms, 3 ½ baths in main house; a full house generator; updated light fixtures and ceiling fans; outdoor shower; custom details throughout. Outdoor entertaining will be a breeze on your 2-acre setting with patios and covered porches, the unique meandering creek is a soothing backdrop and the mature trees offer you the privacy and serenity you seek. Get ready for dinner by the lake prepared in your outdoor kitchen, stories around the built-in gas log fire pit and end the evening with a cruise around the lake. Start living the dream on Torch Lake!

3463 NE Torch Lake Drive, Central Lake

$2,195,000
3 Beds 3 Baths 1948958 MLS N/A BLDG.
TORCH LAKE! This incredible piece of paradise on the crystal-clear blue waters of Torch Lake is enhanced by 216 feet of stunning frontage. Over 2,028 sq. ft. of completey updated and renovated living space this home provides the perfect place to live year around or as a getaway retreat. Step into the spacious living room to discover vaulted ceilings, a fireplace, hardwood floors and waterfront vistas. The professionally designed kitchen boasts beautiful custom cabinetry, granite countertops, stainless appliances, and bar seating. Gather your friends and family in the dining room for lively conversation and great meals. Wake up to views of the lake from the main floor owner’s suite with sliders leading to the deck and a luxurious private bath. Additionally discover quality materials & superb craftsmanship; updated lighting throughout; 3 large bedrooms; 2 1/2 gorgeous, tiled bathrooms; a main floor laundry room; central air conditioning; underground sprinkler system; outdoor shower; 2-car garage and so much more. Outdoor living will be a breeze with multiple places to entertain and relax with extensive decking, gorgeous stone patios, and a built-in natural gas fire pit. Imagine sitting in the hot tub while you watch the sunset over your one-of-a-kind setting. Professionally landscaped grounds with a variety of perennial garden beds, 1 acre setting for privacy and a luscious green lawn perfect for yard games. Get ready to spend your days boating and making a splash on Torch Lake. Hop on your boat and discover miles of shoreline on the entire Chain-of-Lakes including, Elk Lake, Lake Skegemog, Clam Lake, Torch River, Elk River and more. Charming towns, restaurants and shopping are just a short drive away and waiting to be explored. This is the waterfront opportunity you have been waiting for.

4595 NE Torch Lake Drive, Central Lake

$5,500,000
5 Beds 6 Baths 1948523 MLS
One-of-a-kind, turnkey Torch Lake luxury estate! Offered fully furnished, this stunning custom-built home delivers 5,700 sq. ft. of beautifully appointed living space and superior water frontage on Michigan’s most iconic lake. Thoughtfully designed for both grand entertaining and relaxed family life, the property features five bedrooms, five-and-a-half baths, and a walkout lower level - all finished with high-end materials and a classic “Up North” warmth. Inside, generous open living areas showcase wood floors, tongue-and-groove knotty pine accents, granite countertops, stylish lighting with Lutron controls, and two inviting gas fireplaces. Two oversized en-suite bedrooms on the main level provide comfort and privacy, along with a dedicated work-from-home office off the primary suite. The finished walkout basement includes two additional en-suite bedrooms, a kids’ bunk room, a kitchen and a game area, creating extra space for guests and recreation. Outside, the property offers exceptional Torch Lake frontage with an expansive dock system and a 24' x 24' sun deck, a covered oversized hot tub, an outdoor firepit for cozy evenings, and a fully equipped cabana with its own half bath - perfect for dining, entertaining, or relaxing after a day on the water. Newer Trex decking and thoughtfully landscaped grounds complete the resort-like setting. This home is being sold turnkey and includes nearly all furniture, the dock, two Bullman hoists, two Yamaha model VXR's 1800 A-T 4 Stroke 185 H.P. wave runners with approximately 90 hours on each, and a Monterey 264 FSX boat with a Mercruiser 6.2L engine with just 91 hours on it. Located in one of the best spots on Torch Lake - just 10 minutes to downtown Elk Rapids, 30 minutes to Traverse City and Charlevoix, and a short boat ride to the famous Torch Lake sandbar - this is true Torch Lake living! An exceptional, move-in-ready estate combining luxury finishes, comfortable family spaces, and an unbeatable lakeside lifestyle.

4557 N West Torch Lake Drive, Kewadin

$1,850,000
3 Beds 2 Baths 1947812 MLS Person's Harbor BLDG.
Welcome to your Torch Lake Sandbar getaway, where golden sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise water, and unforgettable lake days await! This 3BR, 1.5BA waterfront home offers 66 feet of prime sandy Torch Lake frontage. The beautiful north-facing lake views and a shallow sandy entry perfect for swimming and family beach days. Located just east of the Torch River Bridge and walk out distant from the famous Torch Lake Sandbar, this property offers easy access to one of Northern Michigan’s most sought-after destinations and the incredible Chain of Lakes lifestyle. Enjoy your private golden beach, with bonfires, sunsets, and endless days on the water. The dock is included for easy boating access. Inside, the home offers a warm and inviting layout with gorgeous original wood floors throughout the main living areas and bedrooms. The living room and dining area provide comfortable spaces for gathering, while the heated all-season room offers a spectacular lake view and additional living space perfect for morning coffee, working from home, or enjoying rainy afternoons while still taking in the beauty of Torch Lake. The three bedrooms and updated full bath are thoughtfully separated down the hall from the main living spaces. Upstairs provides additional potential with open unfinished space, a half bath, and laundry area with washer and dryer. Additional features include a proven short-term rental history, paved driveway for easy parking, and south-facing solar panels that help offset energy costs, with recent electric bills are extremely low. Whether you’re searching for a year-round residence, vacation retreat, or waterfront investment, this Torch Lake property offers the location, lifestyle, and memories that make Northern Michigan so special.

7636 Crystal Beach, Rapid City

$10,500,000
6 Beds 6 Baths 1947329 MLS Metes & Bounds BLDG.
Gracing 150 ft of pristine, hardscaped shoreline, enjoy breathtaking sunrises and the turquoise waters of Torch Lake. This newly constructed estate defines the pinnacle of Northern Michigan luxury as it sits on 2.39 acres of curated outdoor environments, complimented by native landscaping and sweeping water views. Designed and crafted with uncompromising quality, this 6-bedroom, 8-bath masterpiece effortlessly sleeps 20+ and offers an extraordinary blend of modern sophistication and timeless charm. Entering the residence, you are drawn into the great room with its dramatic, soaring cathedral ceiling anchored by a floor to ceiling stone fireplace with 6-foot firebox. Expansive windows frame breathtaking lake views. The gourmet kitchen is a showpiece, featuring leathered granite surfaces, Sub-Zero/Wolf appliances, stone/wood accents, and a spacious pantry all seamlessly flowing for entertaining at any scale. Every architectural detail represents a level of craftsmanship and permanence. Reclaimed century old wood beams and flooring add warmth and character to hand cut stone. The primary suite is a private sanctuary, complemented by spa-inspired amenities. Designed with intent, the estate includes a private cinema, library w/fireplace and balcony, numerous built-ins, upper and lower laundry facilities, spacious bunk-room, full service bar/game room, wellness center complete with sauna and steam/aromatherapy shower. Navigate outdoors to one of the many lounge areas, including a covered veranda w/fireplace, flagstone fire-pit, expansive cedar dock, or one of several waterfront terraces with stunning granite steps to the sandy shore. A pickleball court tops off the exquisite amenities offered. More than a home, this is a rare, resort-caliber Torch Lake estate designed for exceptional everyday living and memorable lakefront entertaining. Shown exclusively to pre-qualified buyers.

607 NW Torch Lake Drive, Kewadin

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