Four season beauty and vitality.
In wintertime, Elk Rapids transforms into a place of quiet beauty, lit by wintry stars and warming fires. We’re in the center of cold weather recreation--a big advantage for visitors who want to optimize their winter fun. Some of the best downhill skiing in the region is a short drive away at Shanty Creek Resorts. There’s a good reason we’ve been designated a Pure Michigan Trail Town: excellent snow shoe and x-country ski trails are also close by. Love to ice skate? We have our own ice rink at the Elk Rapids Marina! We even have our own groomed Nordic ski trail at the Elk Rapids Golf Club, in partnership with Norte. If window shopping is more your winter sport, we’ve got you covered, too. Come join us in Elk Rapids for a great winter escape!
Recreation
Water and Beaches
At the edge of downtown Elk Rapids is one of the most beautiful public beaches in all northwestern Michigan. We have over 2000 feet of pristine sugar sand to relax on during the day, at sunset, and on starry nights. With Elk Lake on one side and Grand Traverse Bay on the other, you’ll find every type of water sport available: kayaking, sailing, boating, SUPing, fishing, and of course perfect swimming. Dive right in—the water is spectacular!
Golf
Golfing is extraordinary in and around Elk Rapids! The Elk Rapids Golf Club, designed by legendary golf architect Donald Ross, features nine scenic holes along the shores of Elk Lake. Recognized by Golf Digest as some of the best golf in Michigan, the Grand Traverse Resort, The Chief, and LochenHeath courses offer the perfect round for every skill level. And north of Elk Rapids, between Torch Lake and Grand Traverse Bay, A-Ga-Ming offers three distinct golfing experiences with wide, playable fairways, woods and creeks, and parkland settings.
Edward C. Grace
Memorial Harbor
Eighty percent of our town perimeter is water. And our harbor is the perfect place to call home if you’re exploring the region by boat. We offer all the usual amenities and many not found at other harbors, including free shuttle service within the village. If you step off the deck, Elk Rapids is sure to show you a good time.
Biking & Hiking
Make Elk Rapids your jumping off point to miles and miles of trails. Whether you have an hour or an entire day, there is an abundance of destinations to get outside and experience the beauty of northern Michigan’s rolling hills, deep forests, and wide-open water vistas. Looking for detailed trail map information? Click here!
