Nothing means more to me than Big Platte Lake. One of the larger lakes in Benzie County, Platte Lake is a dream come true. You may think that I’m over exaggerating but after reading this article I’m sure you’ll learn to love this little slice of heaven just as much as I do.
Who can resist a day on the lake? I personally love floating in the waves with a cocktail in hand or flying through the water on a speedboat. In a perfect life, I’d spend every day on the lake. Located right off M22 and literally minutes from Lake Michigan, Big Platte Lake is an all sports lake about three miles long and two miles wide. The perfect destination for fishing, swimming, kayaking, and boating!
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Why am I referring to it as “Big” Platte? Because it has a younger brother next door! Little Platte Lake, while remotely smaller and shallower, is right across the street from Big Platte and is still a great place to fish, kayak, and canoe.
The Platte River flows in and out of Big Platte and continues downstream before flowing out into Lake Michigan. This makes for perfect kayaking, canoeing, and tubing opportunities. I’ve kayaked the lower Platte River more times than I can count and it still keeps me coming back for more. It’s easy flowing currents and scenic views of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore create the perfect setting for a relaxing float.
Every time I visit I always try to make time get my ‘yak in the water! Riverside Canoe Trips is right off M22 in Honor, Michigan and right alongside the Platte River. They offer daily tube, kayak, canoe, and raft rentals as well as a convenient store, ice cream and so much more! The Honor Trading Post also offers daily canoe, kayak, and tube rentals plus paddleboard and bike rentals! They also offer Upper Platte river trips for the more experienced canoe/kayaker.
While there are many home rentals and resorts available on or around Big Platte and the Platte River, I suggest you stay at the Platte River Campground! It’s open year-round, within walking distance of the Platte River, and less than two miles from Lake Michigan. The Platte Plains trail system in the area offers over 25 miles of hiking trails, some of which can be accessed right near the campground. If in the end, camping isn’t for you, Riverside Canoe Trips also offers a full list of accommodations in the area, as well as right on the lake, here.
After spending a day out on the lake or river get your friends and family together and visit the iconic Cherry Bowl Drive-In Theater in Honor. The Cherry Bowl is a step back in time. After opening in 1953, they’ve kept the 50’s theme till this day along with the original screen and pre-show previews. The Cherry Bowl is open seven days a week in the summer season and always provides a double feature that’s always family friendly!
I spend every summer on Platte and I don’t think I’m going to stop any time soon. Platte Lake is something I simply cannot pass up. So if you’re at a loss this summer on where to spend a day (or a few, I won’t judge) at the lake, Big Platte has got you covered, no experience needed. Just sit back, relax, and let Platte do the rest!
Your Michigan Girlfriend 