Boardman Lake | Traverse City

Boardman Lake is a prominent natural freshwater lake situated in Traverse City, Michigan, encompassing approximately 339 acres of surface area. It is fed primarily by the Boardman River, which originates from the surrounding forested regions of Kalkaska County and flows through the lake before ultimately emptying into the Grand Traverse Bay of Lake Michigan. The lake reaches a maximum depth of about 55 feet, supporting a diverse aquatic ecosystem that is home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth and smallmouth bass, walleye, northern pike, bluegill, sunfish, and yellow perch. This biodiversity makes Boardman Lake a favored destination for fishing enthusiasts.

Physical and Ecological Characteristics

Boardman Lake’s clear, clean waters are surrounded by a mix of natural shoreline and developed areas, providing important habitat for aquatic life as well as local wildlife. The lake’s connection with the Boardman River integrates it into a broader watershed, playing a crucial role in maintaining the health of the region’s water systems. Its shores feature a combination of wooded areas, wetlands, parks, and residential properties, which balance natural preservation with community access.

Recreational Opportunities

Boardman Lake offers a wide range of outdoor activities that cater to residents and visitors alike. The lake is a popular spot for fishing, with several accessible points such as Hull Park, which includes a boat launch designed for small boats, kayaks, canoes, and non-motorized watercraft. Anglers frequently seek the lake for its healthy populations of game fish, including trophy-sized walleye and bass.

Paddling is especially popular, with Medalie Park located at the southern end of the lake serving as a major access point. Kayaking and canoeing here provide tranquil exploration opportunities along the lake’s shoreline and downstream through the Boardman River toward Grand Traverse Bay.

Boardman Lake Loop Trail

One of the lake’s most notable recent developments is the creation of the Boardman Lake Loop Trail, a 4.2-mile multi-use pathway that fully encircles the lake. Opened in July 2022, this trail is part of the broader TART (Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation) Trails network and is designed to be accessible to people of all abilities. The trail surface combines paved sections, wooden boardwalks, and gravel paths, allowing use by walkers, runners, cyclists, rollerbladers, and people with mobility aids or strollers.

The Loop Trail connects several key community locations around the lake, including public parks, local businesses, and recreational facilities. Notable access points along the trail include Hull Park on the north end, Medalie Park on the south, Oryana Community Co-op, and Right Brain Brewery. The trail provides scenic vistas of the lake and natural areas, promoting outdoor exercise, relaxation, and nature appreciation for residents and visitors.

Community and Environmental Impact

The development of the Boardman Lake Loop Trail represents a significant community effort to enhance outdoor recreation, encourage healthy lifestyles, and improve connectivity within Traverse City and neighboring areas such as Garfield Township and Grand Traverse County. The project involved collaboration between local government, nonprofit organizations, and citizen groups committed to conservation and public access.

In addition to recreational benefits, the lake and surrounding natural areas serve as important environmental assets. The watershed supports local biodiversity, bird habitats, and wetland preservation. Nearby facilities like the Boardman River Nature Center provide educational programs about the local ecosystem and conservation efforts, fostering environmental stewardship within the community.

Amenities and Accessibility

Boardman Lake and its surrounding parks are equipped with amenities designed to accommodate visitors comfortably:

Multiple parking areas are available at parks such as Hull Park and Medalie Park, allowing easy vehicle access.

Public restrooms and seasonal portable toilets are located at key spots along the trail and lakefront.

The Boardman Lake Loop Trail is fully accessible, with gentle slopes and smooth surfaces suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, ensuring inclusivity.

Several picnic areas and benches offer resting spots with lake views, enhancing the visitor experience.

Summary

Boardman Lake is a treasured natural and recreational resource within Traverse City, offering a harmonious blend of ecological richness, outdoor activities, and community engagement. Its well-maintained shoreline, accessible trails, and abundant wildlife create a serene environment for fishing, paddling, walking, biking, and wildlife observation. The lake’s integration with the Boardman River and its connection to the larger Grand Traverse Bay area further enhance its ecological and recreational significance. The Boardman Lake Loop Trail exemplifies the community’s commitment to making natural beauty and active lifestyles accessible to all, positioning Boardman Lake as a central feature of Traverse City’s outdoor identity.