Exploring the Beauty of Michigan's Inland Lakes

When it comes to Michigan, most people immediately think of the majestic Great Lakes that define its borders. Here at Huron House, we're partial to beautiful Lake Huron, as our guestrooms overlook its waters and we have our own private beach on its sandy shores. However, all throughout the state lies a network of over 11,000 inland lakes, each with its own unique charm and recreational opportunities. There are a plethora of these captivating lakes surrounding Oscoda that are both scenic wonders and recreational havens.

When you stay at our romantic and restful retreat, take some time to experience the serene beauty of nearby freshwater inland gems. North of the Au Sable River in the northeast corner of the Huron National Forest are Reid and Hoist Lakes. These lakes stand out as an idyllic escape for fishing enthusiasts. Their tranquil waters teem with various fish species — sunfish, perch, bass, trout — providing an angler's paradise. Whether casting a line from the shore or paddling out in a canoe, the experience is nothing short of peaceful immersion in nature.

Surrounded by lush forests, the Hoist/Reid Lake Area offers hiking trails that wind through the wilderness, providing an opportunity for nature lovers to explore the diverse flora and fauna that call this region home. Hoist Lake has 19 miles of looped trail through acres of pine, aspen and hardwood forest. Reid Lake has 12 miles of gently rolling trails that will lead you around the lake. The trails also are open in the winter for cross-country skiing, although the trails are not groomed.

On the northern border of Oscoda is 6-mile-long Van Etten Lake, an ideal destination for an adventurous lake escape. Unlike Hoist and Reid lakes, Van Etten allows motorized watercraft. The 11-acre Ken Ratliff Memorial Park is on Van Etten Lake and has two public launches that provide access for boating and waterskiing. The park also has a groomed swim beach where sunseekers can bask in the warmth on the lake's sandy shores, as well as pavilions, picnic tables and grills. When snow blankets the ground, a snowmobile trailhead accessing miles of trails is also located at this park. Van Etten Lake's fish-filled waters draw anglers year-round to reel in bass, pike, trout and walleye. In the winter, ice huts dot the frozen lake surface as anglers punch holes in the surface to pull yellow perch from the icy water. A large island on the north end of the lake known as Loud Island is another popular fishing spot.

North of Van Etten Lake is where you'll find Cedar Lake, running north and south parallel with Lake Huron and stretching from Oscoda to neighboring Greenbush, Michigan. This 6-mile-long lake is only a short drive to Harrisville State Park. With its crystal-clear waters, it beckons swimmers and water sports enthusiasts. There are three public access sites to Cedar Lake, each on the east side of the lake off Cedar Lake Road. Anglers will find plenty of panfish here. The lake's pristine shoreline invites picnics and relaxation, making it an ideal spot for a laid-back day in the sun. As the sun sets over Cedar Lake, the vibrant colors reflect on the water's surface, creating a captivating scene that embodies the essence of Michigan's inland lake experience.

Hubbard Lake, Michigan's 12th largest inland lake, completes the tapestry of the lake-rich landscape not far from Oscoda. With its expansive size, this all-sports, all-season lake is a favorite for watersports, such as waterskiing, wakeboarding, sailing, pontooning, tubing and swimming. For fishing, Hubbard Lake is one of the best walleye lakes in northeastern Michigan, as well as being a good source of perch and smallmouth bass. The area offers a wide expanse of crystal-clear waters for visitors to enjoy, perfect for taking in the views of the surrounding countryside on a sunny day.

While the Great Lakes rightfully claim the spotlight, Michigan's inland lakes are waiting to be explored. The next time you plan a getaway to Huron House, remember that our lakeside allure extends beyond the shores of Lake Huron. We've got 11,000 more reasons to love Michigan lake life.