Loon Lake sits on the Lower Platte River in Benzie County, Michigan, within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This 59-acre lake serves as a scenic midpoint on one of the region's most popular paddling routes, offering paddlers a brief respite from the river's gentle current.

**Access and Route** The primary access is via the Loon Lake boat launch on M-22, which features a hard-surface ramp, parking, restrooms, and a picnic pavilion. The launch includes an EZ Launch roller system for kayaks and canoes with ADA accessibility. The Platte River enters the lake from the east and exits from the northwest corner. Paddlers traveling the full Lower Platte route will cross approximately 0.5-0.6 miles of the lake, typically following the eastern and northeastern shoreline.

**Character and Conditions** Loon Lake is notably deep with near-shore drop-offs around its perimeter. The water is characteristically clear, fed by the spring-influenced Platte River system, though it can carry tannins giving it a tea-colored appearance later in summer. The lake is surrounded by National Lakeshore parkland, maintaining a natural, undeveloped shoreline. On the north side, there's a small inlet creek leading to Mud Lake, which can be explored by kayak when water levels permit—approximately 600 feet up through some fallen trees before opening to the wild 59-acre lake.

**Considerations** A National Park Pass is required for access, as the area lies within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The Lower Platte River route, including Loon Lake, is extremely popular during summer, particularly on weekends. Early morning or weekday paddling offers a more tranquil experience. Downstream from the lake, paddlers encounter a fish weir that requires portage during salmon season (typically closed around Labor Day through fall). The gentle current and scenic setting make this an ideal family paddling destination, though crowds during peak season should be anticipated.