Six Lakes Michigan

by | Jul 23, 2022 | Discover Montcalm | 0 comments

Six Lakes Michigan

Quick answer: Six Lakes, Michigan, is a community in Belvidere Township, Montcalm County, located where M46 and M66 meet. Named after a chain of six lakes, it serves as the starting point of the Flat River. Originally a 19th-century timber and railroad hub, it has evolved into a premier destination for fishing, kayaking, and lakeside living.

Key Takeaways

  • Six Lakes, Michigan, is a community in Montcalm County, situated at the intersection of M46 and M66.
  • The village is named after a chain of six lakes and marks the starting point of the Flat River.
  • Platted on May 13, 1879, it historically served as a timber and railroad hub, utilizing dams to float logs down the Flat River.
  • Today, Six Lakes is a popular destination for fishing, kayaking, and lakeside living, known for landmarks like Belvidere Township Park and The Flat River Saloon.

Six Lakes Michigan

Six Lakes Michigan is a charming community located where M46 and M66 intersect. This area is renowned for its namesake chain of six beautiful lakes in Montcalm County, including popular destinations like Bass Lake and Horseshoe Lake. Beyond the vibrant Dizzi Daze 4th of July celebration, visitors and residents enjoy exceptional Montcalm County fishing and a variety of water sports. We are ready to tell your story. Give us a call at 231-250-9624.

We are ready to tell your story.  Give us a call at 231-250-9624.

Discover Six Lakes: The Gateway to the Flat River

Located in Belvidere Township, Six Lakes is a community defined by its namesake waters. As the starting point of the Flat River, this village has evolved from a 19th-century timber and railroad hub into one of Montcalm County’s premier destinations for fishing, kayaking, and lakeside living.

 

A Brief History of Six Lakes

Platted on May 13, 1879, the village was strategically located near the source of the Flat River to leverage the booming lumber industry. The arrival of the Chicago, Saginaw and Canada Railroad cemented the village as a permanent fixture in the county. Originally, the dams here were used to raise river levels to float massive log rafts down to the mills in Greenville and Grand Rapids.

 

Today, while the sawmills are long gone, the legacy of the “Six Lakes” continues to provide a scenic backdrop for a vibrant, tight-knit community.

Featured Podcast Episodes & Stories

We love highlighting the outdoor spirit of northern Montcalm!

Local Landmarks & Community Gems

  • Belvidere Township Park & Municipal Campground: A beautiful lakeside retreat on M-66 offering camping, boat access, and quiet sunset views.

     

  • The Flat River Saloon: A local landmark known for some of the best burgers in the county and a favorite stop for travelers on M-46.

     

  • M-66 Summer Flea Market: A massive seasonal attraction that brings treasure hunters from across the state to the heart of Six Lakes.

     

  • First Lake Park: A serene spot to launch a kayak and explore the beginning of the Flat River’s journey south.

Sources & Methodology

This article was authored by Duane Weed, the founder of DW Video & Multimedia, LLC, a video production and digital media company based in Howard City, Michigan. With over three decades of experience documenting the vibrant communities and businesses across Montcalm County and West Michigan, Duane brings a deep, firsthand understanding of the region. His work includes producing and contributing to local media projects like the Discover Montcalm Podcast, which regularly features local historians, business owners, and community leaders, providing a rich tapestry of local knowledge and perspectives.

The information presented in this guide to Six Lakes, Michigan, is a synthesis of local knowledge, historical research, and direct engagement with the community. Our methodology includes leveraging years of on-the-ground experience in Montcalm County, conducting interviews with local residents and business owners (as featured on the Discover Montcalm Podcast), and cross-referencing historical facts with reputable regional archives and official government records. This approach ensures a well-rounded and accurate portrayal of Six Lakes’ past and present.

This article was originally published on June 1, 2023, and last updated on October 26, 2023, to ensure accuracy and relevance.

References:

Beyond Summer: Year-Round Adventures and Conservation in Six Lakes

While the warm months bring anglers seeking Largemouth Bass, Northern Pike, and various panfish in the chain of six lakes, the rich ecosystem here supports diverse wildlife year-round. Keep an eye out for white-tailed deer, a variety of waterfowl on the lakes, and even raptors soaring overhead. Understanding these natural inhabitants is key to appreciating the region’s biodiversity.

As the seasons change, Six Lakes transforms into a winter wonderland, offering opportunities for ice fishing, snowmobiling on designated trails, and cross-country skiing. These activities, like all outdoor pursuits in Michigan, are often guided by the expertise and regulations of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR). The MDNR plays a vital role in managing our natural resources, ensuring sustainable recreation and conservation efforts across Montcalm County.

Beyond the immediate village, Montcalm County boasts an extensive network of parks and trails, inviting further exploration. Local conservation groups, often working in conjunction with the MDNR, are dedicated to preserving the pristine beauty of the Flat River watershed and the surrounding forests. Engaging with these efforts ensures that the natural heritage of Six Lakes and Montcalm County remains vibrant for generations to come.

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *