Welcome to Antrim County, Michigan

There is plenty to do in Antrim County and lots of things to see. Here are just a few.

• Visit Elk Rapids.
• The Point Betsie Lighthouse Sightseeing.
• Motor Torch Lake, Michigan's Longest Lake.
• Go fishing and boating on the Chain of Lakes.
• Rent a canoe or kayak in Bellaire or Alden.
• Come to the Bass Festival in Mancelona
• Drop anchor at the Elk Rapids Marina on Grand Traverse Bay.
• Shop for antiques and gifts in Central Lake.
• Go sunbathing on Torch Lake.

Antrim County is bordered on the west by Lake Michigan and Grand Traverse Bay and on the East by the Mackinaw State Forest, also referred to as the Jordan river valley.

A number of lakes and rivers cover the county, most notable of the lakes is Torch Lake. This lake is on a chain of lakes that runs from Bellaire , the county seat, to Elk Rapids . North of Bellaire is another chain of lakes that go from there through Central Lake and Ellsworth.

Communities include Bellaire, Elk Rapids, Central Lake, Ellsworth and Mancelona. The village of Bellaire was founded in 1879 and was the original location of the county seat.

Bellaire was founded in 1879, originally named Keno, it was changed to Bellaire, taking into account the air quality. The county court house in downtown Bellaire, is listed as a historic landmark and has been recently restored.

Central Lake is a small village located at the North end of Intermediate Lake. Platted in 1883, the village has grown to nearly 900 residents. Thurston Park is a notable site in this village, with a nice beach, and a large campground for all types of camping enthusiasts.

Elk Rapids was platted in 1852 and originally named Stevens. Today the county and Elk Rapids are at the heart of Antrim County's growth, with a complete renovation of the downtown area, a new and expanded marina.

Mancelona is home to the annual White Pine Stampede. The county also has many fine golf courses, is a major ski resort area and is very beautiful during the fall color season. Mancelona is a small-town, friendly community that is a great place to visit, and a great place to live!