Crystal Lake

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Crystal Lake, the largest lake of this name in Michigan, is located near Lake Michigan in Benzie County about 25 miles southwest of Traverse City and about 2 miles (3 km) northeast of Frankfort. It measures approximately 2.5 by 8 miles (4 by 13 km), and has a maximum depth of 165 feet). At 9,854 acres, it is Michigan's ninth largest inland lake. Up to and through the American Civil War years Crystal Lake was known as "Cap Lake" due to the frequent whitecaps visible on its surface.
Wikipedia article: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crystal_Lake_(Benzie_County,_Michigan)
Nearby cities:
Coordinates:   44°39'38"N   86°10'3"W

Comments

  • Crystal Lake is one the most picturesque lakes in the state. Nearly nine miles from end to end and a mile across in some areas it provides amazing opportunities for all kinds of summer water sports. With as big as lake is there are few areas for public access to beaches and boat ramps. The only paved ramp to the lake is in the town of Beulah where one of the public beaches is. Get there early as there is no parking at the ramp only on the streets of the town. With access being so limited there is almost never a day when the lake ever feels crowded. If you have a boat and are in the area the lake is a most see. On a side note. I have spend many hours on this lake on my Boston Whalers and, if you are a Whaler fan like me, spend a day just idling around the lake. The lake holds lots of pristine classic whalers. Everything from 13' sports to Outrages of all sizes. While you will enjoy whaler watching the lake also has great scenery with beautiful hills surrounding the lake. This round trip takes 4-5 hours. Pack a lunch and make a day of it.
  • Interesting note, they once tried to link the lake with lake Michigan but someone didn't do the math and the lake lost a ton of water. oops!
This article was last modified 16 years ago