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This is a
nice circle drive around the Torch Lake area, starting in Bellaire.
It provides panoramic views of colorful hillsides, contrasting lake
views, and numerous quaint stops along the way for shopping or a
bite to eat.
Starting out, travel west on Bellaire Highway 3 miles turning left
onto East Torch Lake Drive (CR-593). Allow time to take in the many
great views of Torch Lake along this portion. Eventually you’ll
come to a stop sign where Alden Hwy joins. Turn right and go into
Alden, a great little village to stroll, shop and take in views of
the lake from the pier. Next, continue your drive south about a
mile and turn right on Crystal Beach Rd. Follow this road along
the south lake shore and enjoy more lake and color views. The road
crosses Torch River and winds its way west and north through Kewadin
(now Cherry Ave) and then south again into Elk Rapids (Cairn Hwy).
Near Kewadin, stop at Pearl’s restaurant – a great place serving up
authentic Cajun style food. A little past Pearl’s is a wonderful
art studio/gallery called The Blue Heron offering a nice selection
of creations by local artists. Once in Elk Rapids, allow some time
for shopping and exploring in this wonderful little village along
the shore of Lake Michigan. Begin the second half of the loop by
going north on US-31 to Eastport. Turn east on M-88 to Central Lake
and view the fruit farms and you might even some elk grazing inside
a fenced elk ranch. In town, turn left on East State Street and
follow this to Intermediate Lake Rd. Turn left following this road
along the west shore of Intermediate Lake. If your timing is right,
the colors are fantastic. Make a right turn at Derenzy Road and
drive past the Bellaire airport, Cedar river and Craven Park.
Derenzy ends at a stop sign. Turn right and follow Stover
Road/Cayuga Street back into Bellaire (now M-88). Close out your
day having dinner at the ever-popular Lulu’s Bistro or Short’s
Brewery, and maybe take in a current show at the little downtown
theater.
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