2 Sep 06: Chain of Lakes Michigan: Part 1

We (Ray, Wally, Francie and Cisco ~ Mom had to start the new job and was left behind) finally were able to take the Chain of Lakes trip which started from Whitewater Township Park ramp at Elk Lake, to Lake Skegemog, to Torch River, To Torch Lake, to Clam River to Clam Lake to Grass River Natural Area to Lake Bellaire. I planned 48 miles of water travel; 14 miles SLOW GO and 34 miles FAST GO >20 mph for a total travel time of 6.75 hours; gas consumption was estimated at 9 gal for a 90 hp Honda on a 19ft Carolina Skiff (Lulu Belle). The estimates were conservative and worked out about right; we finished with a half tank gas and well within our time limit. We were movin on Torch Lake as it was very calm in the morning and we had the wind at our backs on Lake Bellaire and were crusing at 41mph. This was absolutely a great trip and all the lakes are magnificant but Torch is just amazing; it truly is like being in the Carribean, emerald bluish green.Take money for gas, there are several stops along the way for both gas and food; compass, rain gear; food/water, blankets, coats, radio, flashlights and cell phone. Here is the website with specific information on the Chain of Lakes route http://www.fishweb.com/maps/antrim/chain-o-lakes/index.html