20 Attractions to Explore Near Thumb Lake

Boyne Mountain Resort, is a great place for a family vacation. Located just north of The Victorian-style Boyne City, the resort offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking to ski or snowboard on over 1,000 vertical feet of terrain or enjoy one of the many pools and hot tubs provided, this resort has it all. During the summer months, head to Alpine Slide or take on Adventure Park with its ziplines and ropes course. There's a selection of restaurants to choose from.

Walloon Lake is an iconic body of water situated in Charlevoix County, Michigan. Home to over 500 acres of clear blue waters accessorized with white pines and hardwoods, this picturesque lake has been providing locals and visitors alike a peaceful retreat for many generations. Located at a higher elevation than the rest of the area and surrounded by rolling hills, Walloon Lake makes for stunning scenery that radiates tranquility.

The Boyne River Nature Area, is a spectacular 686-acre marshland habitat, home to an abundance of wildlife including bald eagles and beavers. Spanning the entire length of Lake Charlevoix's east arm, the nature area supports a lavish diversity of flora and fauna habitats. Its numerous hiking trails are popular with outdoor enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike. Standing at 45 feet above sea level, hiking the Boyne River Nature Area gives visitors spectacular elevated views over the lake.

Wildwood Lake, is a beautiful expanse of nature that attracts visitors from near and far. The lake offers lush landscapes of deciduous trees mixed with pines, creating a vibrant atmosphere and colors during each season. The calm waters are ideal for fishing, boating and swimming, while there's also a designated swim area with a beach. Additionally, Birding enthusiasts can take advantage of the abundance of different species around Wildwood Lake.

The Boyne Valley Trailway is a hiking and biking trail that stretches along 25 miles of pristine countryside. Boasting provided trails for all levels of skill, this unique location serves as ideal getaway in northern Michigan. Visitors can explore fields and forests of the surrounding area, complete with covered bridges and historically significant buildings. In addition to its natural wildlife and scenic views, the trailway offers birders a stunning variety of bird watching opportunities.

Bavarian Falls Park, is a picturesque destination that offers visitors a glimpse of the stunning natural beauty of the area. The park is home to a number of waterfalls, hiking trails, and camping sites, making it the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The waterfalls are easily accessible and offer beautiful views of cascading water and lush greenery. If you enjoy hiking, the park's trails offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Aspen Park is nestled in the heart of Otsego County, a quaint town known for its natural beauty and friendly residents. This charming park boasts a variety of recreational activities for outdoor enthusiasts, including camping, fishing, and hiking. Its pristine lake and lush forests make it the perfect destination for families, groups of friends, or couples looking for a romantic escape. Whether you're exploring the park's trails, picnicking with loved ones, or simply lounging in the sun.

Walloon Lake,is a stunning lake surrounded by miles of deep forests and natural beauty. This region has been happily home to generations of families and cherished vacationers over its history. The area offers plenty of activities such as fishing, swimming and hiking that can be enjoyed year-round. But there are also many other opportunities for visitors including seasonal activities like skiing, snowmobiling and ice boating.

Young State Park, features wonderful views of Lake Charlevoix and its beautiful surrounding area. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities at the park, from swimming to fishing and boating. There are camping sites available for those wanting to stay longer, as well as picnic areas with grills for day trips. For those looking for more adventure there are many hiking trails and bike paths throughout the grounds. The park is also home to the East Jordan-Charlevoix Bicycle Trail.

Pickerel Lake is a scenic spot that offers plenty of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. The beautiful circular lake is ideal for swimming, fishing, and boating. Just beyond the lake's edge lies a vast forest full of trails, perfect for hiking and mountain biking. Many people also come here to observe the stunning array of wildflowers that bloom during the spring months. Nearby boat launches allow easy access to the lake, while campgrounds provide a comfortable stay.

Crooked Lake is a beautiful and inviting body of water that offers excellent swimming and boating within its crystal clear, spring-fed waters, making it an ideal spot for families or friends looking to spend a relaxing day. In addition to the activities that can be enjoyed on the lake, there is also great fishing as well - northern pike, walleye and large-mouth bass are all plentiful in these waters. Numerous hiking trails also envelope Crooked Lake.

The Cross in the Woods, is a sculpture that honors Christian martyrs. This 10-foot-tall steel cross was commissioned by the Rev. Paul Mittermaier in 1972 and created by local sculptor Marshall M. Fredericks. It displays a bronze figure of Jesus on its front side and was designed to evoke a sense of peace and pilgrimage for visitors. Behind the statue are 8 wood sculptures symbolizing Beatitudes of Jesus on its backside making it an ideal spot for reflection to many people.

It is a beautiful destination for both outdoor enthusiasts and those in search of peace and relaxation. Visitors to the area can enjoy activities such as hiking, boating, fishing, camping, and hunting. The recreation area also offers a playground for kids and an interpretative center where visitors can learn more about the history of the area. Throughout the year there are special events held such as bird-watching weekends and an annual winterfest with ice skating and snowshoeing.

The Little Traverse Historical Museum, is a great destination for history buffs. With its extensive collections, the museum offers detailed insights into life in the area over hundreds of years. Visitors can view interesting photographs, artifacts, and documents related to Indigenous people and early settlers. The museum also tells visitors about the region's growing maritime industry with a wealth of interactive displays depicting commercial fishing and lumber production.

Bayfront Park is a must-see attraction for those visiting the area. This stunning park is located on the shores of Little Traverse Bay and offers a wide variety of activities for tourists. Visitors can take a walk along the waterfront or take part in fishing and other outdoor sports such as kayaking, canoeing and sailing. There are also two boat launches in the park that allow visitors to explore the waters around them. Visitors may also want to check out some of the local history exhibits.

Burt Lake State Park is a natural paradise situated at the southwestern tip of blue-ringed Burt Lake. It offers an abundance of recreational activities. Surrounded by majestic pines, visitors can go camping, fishing, and swimming in the crystal clear waters of the lake. There are also weekly interpretive programs available for nature enthusiasts looking to learn more about the local flora and fauna. The park also boasts excellent hunting opportunities.

Round Lake offers scenic views and plenty of outdoor activities for those looking to enjoy nature. The lake covers approximately 195 acres, providing ample opportunity for swimming, fishing, and boating. There is an excellent public beach located on its northwest shore that allows sunbathers to enjoy a day at the lake. Other nearby attractions include a variety of local parks and nature preserves, making it easy to find outdoor recreation for everyone in the family.

Lake Manuka boasts crystal clear water and serene surroundings that are sure to leave you feeling rejuvenated. With a surface area of 354 acres, this stunning lake is known for its abundance of fish, including trout, bass, and perch. Lake Manuka is a popular spot for anglers to cast their lines and reel in dinner. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities such as boating, swimming, and hiking along the shores of the lake.

Petoskey State Park, is an outdoor enthusiasts dream. With a stunning lakeside vista along Lake Michigan, the park provides miles of shoreline trails perfect for hiking and biking during the temperate seasons. Picnic tables are available for groups and families to bathe in the sun’s rays and breathe in the fresh air provided by acres of woodlands and hillsides. From winter cross-country skiing across snow-covered fields to camping around beautifully landscaped grounds.

Lake Charlevoix is an inland lake located in Charlevoix County, Michigan. This stunning lake is surrounded on three sides by the rolling hills of northern Michigan, creating beautiful vistas that visitors can appreciate no matter which way they look. With deep blue waters, diverse fish populations and gorgeous shoreline features including cottages, marinas, beaches and more, it's no wonder that Lake Charlevoix stays busy year-round with a variety of recreational activities.