Montrose Harbor Beacon — Attraction in Lake View Township

Exercise in a fun way! We went kayaking at the Montrose Harbor Beacon area, and had a super time. Because it was Saturday, parking was difficult to get, but we were in luck, and got parking close to the harbor. We launched from the harbor mouth, and went straight out into the deeper water. The boat traffic was quite heavy, so we had to be quick about crossing their way, from city side to that of the beacon. From there we stayed closer to the shoreline, where many folks were sitting, bathing, and strolling on the concrete tiers.

Boats were causing fairly large ripples at times, so we had to take care not to take too much water or be flipped. But facing the oncoming waves proved to have the best results. The wind was blowing from the shore, Eastward, helping us forward towards the point beacon. Sun, wind, water, kayaking, sight seeing... what fun!

Once at the furthest point, we turned towards the beach, against the wind now, and in shallower water, dropped an anchor and had lunch, before continuing beach ward. There was probably around 1000 people enjoying the lake, sand and sun.

The way back to the harbor felt quicker. Maybe the wind had gotten a tad weaker, but the waves were rather choppy. What was fun on the way back was that we sometimes got boat ripple waves from behind, helping us forward. It was a little little subtle surfing.

Altogether, the trip took about 4 hours to complete. Great experience, but not for inexperienced kayakers. First try rivers, against the flow, then small lakes, against the wind. And when you take on Lake Michigan, stay aware of boats, waves, wind...

This place is awesome. The beach for swimming, you can rent watercrafts, get a hotdog, buy some bait....Family picnics, sporting events, this place gets busy. Even a dog beach. The reason I chose the Beacon area is because of the salmon. You can catch fish at all times throughout the year but during very specific times, the salmon come in-shore and they like the horseshoe. You will know when that time comes because the place is packed with people on the nicer days. On the rainy, colder days most of the fair weather types clean out. Add in the wind blowing out of the northeast and the salmon fill in the horseshoe. At dawn with a florescent spoon, get ready and...

Aside from the lingering feeling that you're being watched at all times AKA 2am, the place is completely pitch. Not a single thing could be seen from the shoreline and total privacy...