TRUE BLUE paddling
Having Fun!
Dip your paddle in mirror calm water
Slice your paddle through rippled swells…
Dig your paddle into white-capped waves…
Enjoy the blue waters of Torch Lake!
Photo: Torch Conservation Center
Paddling Safely!
Almost every year someone drowns in Torch Lake.
Prevent drowning:
- Paddle with a friend.
- Supervise children and inexperienced paddlers.
- Share your paddle plan.
Respect Cold Water
You lose body temperature faster in cold water.
Prevent hypothermia:
- Use caution in Spring and Fall.
- Check the water temperature and lake conditions.
Torch Lake is COLD: 40-60° F. - Dress for water temperature NOT air temperature.
Photo: Torch Conservation Center
Watch the Sky
Storms move in quickly on Torch Lake.
Prevent death/injury:
- When you see lightning, get off the water.
- When the wind comes up, get off the water.
Watch for Boats
Paddling around points or in deep water, boaters may not see you.
Prevent accidents:
- Stay close to shore going around points.
- Wear bright color life jackets and shirts.
- If the boat doesn’t steer clear of you, then wave your paddle in the air.
Photo: Torch Conservation Center
Follow the Law
Torch Lake is a public inland lake- shared by all of us.
The shore has public access sites, marked with orange signs.
Most of the Torch Lake shore is privately owned.
Docks and rafts are private property.
Please do not trespass.
Buckle Up…in a Life Jacket
A life jacket can save your life!
Photo: Torch Conservation Center
Prevent drownings:
- Children Under 6- Must wear life jacket when kayak is moving.
Arm bands/puffy arms are not safe or legal life jackets. - Each kayaker must have a life jacket.
- Paddleboarders are not required but recommended to have a life jacket.
Protect Torch Lake
Non-native species can damage Torch Lake.
Prevent the Spread of Invasive Species:
- BEFORE launching, Clean, Drain & Dry your paddle craft.
- Remove mud, plants & water that may harbor invasive species.
Photo: Torch Conservation Center
Best Paddle Trails on Torch Lake
Public launches and bathrooms are maintained by local townships and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
Follow posted rules.
| Put In | Take Out | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| North of Clam River | ||
| (1) Torch Lake Village- William Good Day Park | MDNR Boat Launch-Eastport | 3 mile |
| (2) Forest Home Township Family Day Park | MDNR Boat Launch-Eastport | 6.7 miles |
| South of Clam River | ||
| (3) Forest Home Township-Public Access near Dockside Beach | Helena Township-Valleau Landing in Alden | 5 miles |
| (4) Helena Township- Ball Park with Kayak Launch | MDNR Boat Launch-Torch River | 4.4miles |
Free Printable
Torch Lake Paddle Trails Map (.pdf)
Show
You Care
We all share Torch Lake.
- Take trash away with you.
- Use public restrooms not the lake.
- Natural shoreline is private property. Please do not trespass.
- Respect private property adjacent to public access sites.
Links
Become a Michigan Paddle Steward, identify and report invasive species using Midwest Invasive Species Information Network app after completing an online EGLE training class.
Don't just wish that Torch Lake will stay blue.
Choose a water-friendly lifestyle - make a difference!