Located in Northwest Michigan

The Glen Arbor area, nestled in Leelanau County, Michigan, lies along the shores of Lake Michigan. The closest hospital is Paul Oliver Memorial Hospital, and the nearest international airport is Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse City.

Life on the Water

Glen Arbor is home to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, offering countless activities for exploration. Visitors can enjoy shopping, beach relaxation, boating, arts, outdoor adventures, and excellent dining options. The area’s iconic landscapes were sculpted by glaciers during the ice age, adding to its unique charm.

For fishing enthusiasts, Glen Arbor is a paradise, teeming with walleye, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and northern pike in its clear waters. The area also supports a variety of water activities, including water skiing, jet skiing, kayaking, and canoeing.

The windswept beaches of Glen Arbor offer a perfect spot to watch sailboats drift under breathtaking sunsets.

What’s Nearby?

The Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail is a must-visit, stretching 22 miles from Empire up the coast through Glen Arbor. This mostly paved trail is ideal for bicyclists, runners, or anyone seeking a scenic route.

The Sleeping Bear Point Maritime Museum provides family-friendly exhibits on the U.S. Coast Guard, the U.S. Life-Saving Service, and the history of Great Lakes shipping.

Just west of Glen Arbor lies Glen Haven Village, home to notable sites like the Cannery Boathouse, a Blacksmith Shop, and a 1920s-style general store.

Weekend in Traverse City

For a vibrant city experience, Traverse City is only two hours away. Known for its lakeside views, historical sites, and vineyards, Traverse City offers scenic beauty and downtown shopping and dining.

Clinch Park, Traverse City’s most popular beach, features over 1,500 feet of sandy shoreline along West Grand Traverse Bay, perfect for sunbathing and enjoying the water. The park includes picnic tables, bike racks, trail access, a snack bar, and restrooms.

When in Traverse City, don’t miss the National Cherry Festival, celebrating the city’s title as the “Cherry Capital of the World.” With over 150 events and activities, including pit-spitting, pie-eating contests, and turtle races, the festival is a highlight, featuring three parades during the festivities.

Why Glen Arbor?

The Glen Arbor area is a stunning, tranquil place for families to enjoy the turquoise waters of Lake Michigan and create cherished memories.

Lake Information

  • Shoreline: 17 miles
  • Shoreline Borders: National Park (Some)
  • Average Depth: 65 feet
  • Deepest Depth: 131 feet
  • Acreage: 6,177 acres
  • Water Level: Full Pool Year Round
  • Ownership: Public
  • Counties: Leelanau County
  • Fish: Brown Trout, Lake Trout, Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, Smallmouth Bass
  • Sailing Clubs: Glen Lake Yacht Club
  • Condos Available: Yes
  • Permit is not required to use the lake.
    Jet skis are allowed.
    Motorized boats are allowed.
    Boating restrictions (Yes).
    — There are certain authorized boat launching sites (See https://www.michigan.gov/documents/dnr/2010-100_351205_7.pdf)

  • Resources Nearby

    Bishop International Airport

    Phone: (810) 235-6560
    Address: 3425 Bristol Rd, Flint, MI 48507

    Empire Airport-Y87

    Phone: (231) 326-5194
    Address: 13264 S Benzonia Trail, Empire, MI 49630

    D.H. Day Group Campground

    Phone: 231-326-4700
    Address: Glen Arbor, MI 49636

    Mountain Flowers Golf Course

    Address: Wood Ridge RoadGlen Arbor, MI 49636

    Paul Oliver Memorial Hospital: Empire Clinic

    Phone: 231-326-2053
    Address: 9975 W Ottawa AveEmpire, MI 49630