Torch Lake in Houghton County, Michigan, is a 6-mile long, 1.5-mile wide inland lake offering excellent paddling opportunities in the Keweenaw Peninsula region. The lake is part of the Chain of Lakes Water Trail system, which includes 84 public access sites and over 100 miles of paddling through interconnected lakes and rivers in northern Michigan.

**Access Points**: The primary public access is the Torch Lake DNR Access Site on the east side of the lake, which features a boat launch suitable for kayaks and canoes. Additional access exists at the Eastport DNR Access. The lake connects to Portage Lake via Bootjack Bay, and through the Keweenaw Waterway system, paddlers can access Lake Superior. The Torch River flows south from the lake into Lake Skegemog, providing additional route options for those seeking longer expeditions.

**Character**: This is a large inland lake with generally calm conditions suitable for recreational paddling, though winds can create chop on the open water. The lake features a mix of wooded shoreline with private residential development and natural areas. Average depth is 111 feet with maximum depths reaching 300 feet, though these depths are not typically concerning for surface paddlers.

**Wildlife and Scenery**: The lake supports diverse fish populations including pike, bass, walleye, bluegills, and crappie, making it popular with anglers. Paddlers may encounter various waterfowl and shorebirds. The surrounding terrain features northern hardwoods and softwoods, with the Keweenaw ridgeline rising to the west providing scenic backdrop.

**Considerations**: The lake sees motorized boat traffic including fishing boats and recreational watercraft. Paddlers should stay aware of larger vessels and consider paddling closer to shore during busy periods. Winter ice fishing is popular when conditions permit. The interconnected waterway system offers opportunities for extended multi-day paddling trips through the Chain of Lakes.