OUR NECK OF
THE WOODS

Chain of lakes adventures await

Chain of lakes adventures await.

 

Welcome to a place where the good times flow as freely as the lake water. Around here, our liquid assets aren’t just scenic—they’re the heartbeat of our days, whether we’re paddling, fishing, or simply soaking up the view. When it’s time to toast the moment, we make a few pour decisions with our favorite local brews. Craving fresh air? Our trail blazers know there’s a path for every pace, from quiet forest strolls to pulse-pumping adventures. And if you’re hungry, our foodie finds bring Northern Michigan flavor to the table with everything from rustic farm fare to refined dining. No matter the season, there’s always room for a little fun—cue the seasonal shenanigans that keep us smiling all year long.

SEASONAL SPECIALTIES

SPRING

Raising a glass at Short’s Brewing’s annual Anniversary Party
Morel mushroom hunting (we’ll share our secret spots… maybe)
10+ lakes all strung together for your boating, fishing, and
paddling pleasure
A Kentucky Derby Jamboree, a run for the roses, and the juleps

SUMMER

Caribbean-colored freshwater lakes, beaches, boating, and Petoskey stone picking
Live music in the streets that’ll rock your socks off all summer long
Championship golf (and more courses than you can play in a week)
Farm stands packed to the brim with berries, pasties, and other fresh goodies
Rubber Ducky Festival (yes, it’s as fun and quirky as it sounds)

FALL

Color tours that’ll make your jaw drop
Kayak or SUP the paddle festival on the Chain of Lakes
Hiking and biking in old-growth forests full of splendor
Bring your flannel and cozy up at our annual fall Harvest Fest

WINTER

Snowshoe, x-ski, fat bike, and downhill ski terrain abound
Grab a spoon and dig in to judging the best soup in town during Light Up The Night
Snowmobile trails that lead everywhere and nowhere
Party in your ugliest sweater and ski with Santa

LAKES + RIVERS

Northern Michigan’s lakes, rivers, and waterways are natural treasures that define the region’s landscape and culture. This collection showcases the most notable water features that make the area special.

Chain of Lakes

Spring-fed and carved by glaciers, the 12 connected lakes right in our backyard are an all-sports dream with over 100+ miles of connected water trail. From the call of the loon to the sounds of the sandbar, find your peace or your party on the water.

Lake Bellaire

Just downstream, Lake Bellaire is peaceful, calm, and connected to one of our favorite places: Grass River Natural Area.

Torch Lake

Eighteen miles of cold, crystal-clear water so blue you’ll swear you’re in the Caribbean.

Intermediate Lake

The peaceful paddler’s paradise, accessible right behind the lodges. Don’t worry—we’ve got kayaks.

Food

Bellaire’s restaurants offer a taste of northern Michigan’s fresh ingredients and local flavors. This guide highlights the best places to eat in the area, from casual diners to farm stands to fine dining establishments.

Chloe’s Chophouse

Where small-town charm meets big-city flavor – your new favorite steakhouse hiding in downtown Bellaire.

ChloesChophouse.com

The Corner Bistro

French and Cajun-inspired menu, traditional favorites, and drinks galore.

CornerBistroBellaire.com

Short’s Brewing

All the food, beer, and funk you could ask for.

ShortsBrewing.com

Fireside Lounge

Small plates, big memories, warm vibes, and fine wines.

HelloVinoBellaire.com

Lunchbox

Staple breakfast and lunch favorites to keep you going all day.

Facebook.com/The-Lunch-Box

Drinks

Bellaire’s vibrant collection of bars, breweries, and coffee shops offers something for every taste and occasion. ‘Pour Decisions’ highlights the best local spots where visitors and residents alike can enjoy carefully crafted beverages in the heart of northern Michigan.

Short's Brewing Company

Grab your growler (stocked in your room) and walk to Michigan’s largest independent brewery. Home of the White Pepper, epic parties, plus ice-cold beer and cider. 

ShortsBrewing.com

Fireside Lounge

You barely have to leave the Lodges to find this gem. Cozy meets classy at the best spot in town for a glass of wine or two.

HelloVinoBellaire.com

Mammoth Distilling

Spirits as bold as the pioneers who settled here.

MammothDistilling.com/bellaire/

M88 Morning Grind

What goes better with your awesome coffee than a sweet donut or savory quiche.

Facebook.com/m88awesomecoffee

Ruthann’s Gourmet Baker

Pick up a coffee, loaf of bread, and award-winning pastries all in one cute lil’ stop.

RuthannsGourmetBakery.com

TRAILS

Bellaire and northern Michigan’s extensive network of trails and pathways offers outdoor enthusiasts endless opportunities to explore the region’s natural beauty. Here we showcase the most scenic and accessible routes for hikers, bikers, paddlers, and nature lovers to experience the area’s forests, waterways, and shorelines.

Glacial Hills Trails

31.5 miles of pure Michigan bliss for your foot and pedal powered adventures.

GlacialHillsTrails.org

Grass River Natural Area

Where the birds sing and the trails talk- 7.5 miles of pristine wetlands and wilderness waiting to be explored.

GrassRiver.org

Cedar River Natural Area

Mother Nature’s meditation room where crystal-clear waters meet centuries-old cedars.

AntrimCountyMI.gov

Chain of Lakes Water Trail

A paddler’s haven with over 100+ miles of water trail over 12 lakes.

PaddleAntrim.com/chain-of-lakes-water-trail

Dead Mans Hill

Expansive vistas and part of the historic North Country Trail.

MichiganTrailMaps.com

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