The last lake in the Elk River Chain of Lakes before reaching Lake Michigan. Lake Skegemog flows in from the south. Elk River flows out through a dam at Elk Rapids into East Grand Traverse Bay — contributing roughly 60% of the water entering the bay. The dam blocks fish migration but also prevents invasive species like sea lamprey from moving upstream into the chain.
Elk Lake is deep (195 ft) and may not freeze reliably in mild winters. When it does freeze, ice conditions vary. Popular for iceboating.
Elk Lake is Michigan's second deepest inland lake at 195 feet and the 14th largest at 8,194 acres. It's the final lake in the Elk River Chain before water reaches Lake Michigan via the Elk River at Elk Rapids. The dam at Elk Rapids was first built in the 1860s, raised water levels about 5 feet, and still produces hydroelectric power. It blocks fish migration but also keeps sea lamprey out of the chain.
The lake is oligotrophic — nutrient poor, crystal clear, with an emerald green color from calcium carbonate. Aquatic plants are sparse. The fishing is challenging because of the lake's size, but the rewards are real: Elk Lake harbors a unique strain of lake trout that DNR biologists are studying for its deep-water spawning habits. Smallmouth bass, muskellunge, rainbow trout, and whitefish round out the fishery. Not a lot of boat traffic compared to Torch — one reviewer described it as 'very relaxing.' The village of Elk Rapids at the north end is a charming stop.