Crystal Lake

Frankfort, Michigan

Crystal Lake is located in beautiful Northern Michigan. Covering just under 10,000 acres, it’s the ninth largest inland lake in the state and amongst the cleanest lakes in the United States, boasting crystal clear blue waters.

Crystal Lake and the surrounding townships are beloved by those who love Michigan’s raw and natural beauty and the rurality of Northern Michigan.

On sunny days, the turquoise hues of the lake rival that of the Caribbean. You’ll discover endless opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, water skiing tubing and beyond. There’s nothing more refreshing than a dip in Crystal Lake on a hot summer afternoon.

As if the lake itself weren’t enough, the surrounding townships are incredibly charming. Grab ice cream in the tiny town of Beulah, venture to the Lake Michigan shoreline in Frankfort, or make the 25-mile jaunt to Traverse City.

Ideal for families and vacation rentals, Sunkissed Hills is Crystal Lake’s newest residential area in a previously undeveloped lakefront section.

The Best of the M22

Endless Exploration

Outdoor activities are endless in Michigan all year round. From 22 miles of biking and hiking trails along the Benzie Trail to dozens of local beaches, lighthouses, and local farms and artisans, families delight in the abundance of exploration in Northern Michigan.

Outdoor Adventure

Crystal Lake’s stunningly clear blue waters beckon, as do those of our big neighbor to the west, Lake Michigan. Whether swimming, boating, tubing, water skiing or fishing, a day on the water in Crystal Lake is the best way to spend your summer holidays.

Michigan Cherries

With more local cherry and produce farms than we can count, summer is cherry season on the M22. From Nugent Orchard’s Cherry Barn to North Star Organics, we love picking our own or gathering them from farm stands. Plump and juicy, they’re delicious freshly plucked from the carton or made into pies, salads, ice creams, and more. 

Wineries & Breweries

Unless you’ve spent time in Northern Michigan, you probably never knew that its soils and surrounding waters are conducive to grape growing. Some of the states best and most unique vineyards can be found near Crystal Lake. Organized wine and brewery tasting tours are abundant throughout the area.

Day Trippin’

While we’re partial to Frankfort and Crystal Lake, day tripping throughout the region is a fan favorite! Beulah, Honor, Glen Arbor, Traverse City, and even Mackinac Island are some of the best ways to spend a day exploring the natural beauty and unique towns and villages of the area.

Authentic Restaurants

From casual outdoor family eateries and ice cream shops, to local seafood houses and places for celebrating special occasions, there is a restaurant (or two) for everyone in Northern Michigan. We have a list of our favorites and are happy to share.