If you love exploring the water, few places in Michigan rival the beauty of the Antrim Chain of Lakes — and when you stay at The Dragonfly Cottage, you’re right in the heart of it. This connected series of crystal-clear lakes and rivers stretches for over 80 miles, offering endless opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and paddling your way through Northern Michigan’s stunning landscapes.
🌊 What Is the Antrim Chain of Lakes?
The Antrim Chain of Lakes is a unique network of interconnected waterways that flow from Upper Chain Lake all the way down to Elk Lake, eventually reaching Grand Traverse Bay. Along the way, you’ll paddle through some of the region’s most scenic lakes, including:
- Intermediate Lake (right outside The Dragonfly Cottage!)
- Ben-Way Lake
- Bellaire Lake
- Clam Lake
- Torch Lake
- Lake Skegemog
- Elk Lake
Each lake has its own personality — from quiet, wildlife-filled backwaters to wide-open turquoise stretches perfect for an afternoon float.
🚣♀️ Launch Right from The Dragonfly
One of the best things about staying at The Dragonfly Cottage is that you can start your adventure directly from your private dock. Paddle across Intermediate Lake’s calm, glassy waters in the morning, watch loons and herons glide by, and explore the shoreline at your own pace.
For longer excursions, you can connect into the Chain of Lakes Water Trail — a mapped route that allows kayakers to travel from lake to lake with designated rest stops and portage points.
👉 Learn more at Chain of Lakes Water Trail.
🌅 Best Kayak Routes Near The Dragonfly
1. Central Lake to Bellaire
Launch from The Dragonfly and paddle south through Intermediate Lake, connecting to the Intermediate River. This gentle route flows all the way to Bellaire and offers peaceful scenery and excellent birdwatching.
2. Torch Lake Paddle
For something truly breathtaking, head 10 minutes east to Torch Lake and explore its famous turquoise shallows. The Torch River connecting Torch Lake to Lake Skegemog is a favorite for experienced paddlers.
3. Sunset Paddle on Intermediate Lake
Stay close to home and enjoy a quiet evening paddle right outside your door. With the sun setting over the water and the sounds of nature around you, it’s the most relaxing way to end the day.
🧭 What You’ll Need
- Kayak, canoe, or paddleboard (The Dragonfly includes two kayaks, a canoe, and a paddleboat for guest use!)
- Life jackets
- Dry bag for phone and keys
- Sunscreen, water, and a small snack
- Optional: binoculars for spotting loons, eagles, and otters
🏡 Return to Comfort at The Dragonfly Cottage
After a day on the water, head back to your lakeside retreat to unwind. Dry off on the private beach, fire up the grill, or sit by the firepit as the stars reflect off the lake. Whether you’re an experienced paddler or just trying it for the first time, kayaking the Antrim Chain of Lakes is an unforgettable Northern Michigan adventure.
👉 Book your stay at TheDragonflyMI.com and make The Dragonfly your launch point for lake-to-lake exploration.
