Bellaire: Waterways, Park and Local Life

When planning a trip to Bellaire, you can choose between a tour on the water, recreational activities in town and seasonal events. In Bellaire, a dam divides the Chain of Lakes Water Trail into the Upper Chain and Lower Chain. The area is also defined by Richardi Park, the Walking Path and attractions farther afield. When looking for a hotel, you can first consider which of these themes you want to shape your stay: the water route, a visit to the park or an event in town each leads to a different day plan.

Waterways Around Bellaire

The Chain of Lakes Water Trail is a network spanning more than 100 miles, with 84 access points from which paddlers can explore Bellaire. The dam in Bellaire divides the route into the Upper Chain and Lower Chain. For paddlers, this division is a practical point of reference, while the network’s overall size describes the broader context. One named access point is the Ohio Street Access Site, which has a concrete boat ramp and a dock providing boat and paddle access to Lake Bellaire and the Lower Chain of Lakes. Check the facility’s current condition before visiting.

Park and Path for Time Outdoors

Richardi Park is on the Intermediate River, north of downtown. The park has a swimming beach, tennis courts and basketball courts, as well as a pavilion available for rental. The grounds also include an area for an ice rink. The Walking Path offers a different kind of activity: the 1.5-mile route crosses an old railroad bridge and is used by tourists and visitors. If you add it to your day plan, you can use its length as a planning guide and check current trail conditions in advance.

Nature and Guided Kayak Tours

Grass River Natural Area broadens the picture beyond Bellaire. The 1,502-acre nature preserve surrounds the Grass River and is in Antrim County, six miles south of Bellaire. In summer and fall, guided public kayak river tours for adults and young people are offered there. If these tours fit your travel plans, note the time of year and check the current schedule.

Events, Market and History

The Flannel Festival is held annually in downtown Bellaire. If it is the reason for your trip, check the event date against your travel dates before making plans. Bellaire’s seasonal Friday Farmers Market offers local produce, baked goods and crafts. Since market days can change, check the current schedule before making the market a firm part of your plans.

The exhibits at the Bellaire Historical Museum document life in Antrim County over the years and include memorabilia from the lumbering era. They add a historical perspective on the region to the events that recur annually or seasonally.

Discover more destinations: Elk Rapids, Mancelona, Kewadin.

Return to the main travel overview: Antrim County.