5 Things to Do this Summer in Frankfort
Shandra Martinez
| 2 min read
Frankfort is a picturesque village sits upon the shore of Lake Michigan at the mouth of the Betsie River and the foothills of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The downtown spills out into the city beach, a popular sunset gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.
Point Betsie: The lighthouse has been operating continuously since 1858, safely guiding mariners on Lake Michigan. The name, which originates from the Native American people, means Saw Beak Point, after the sawbill or merganser ducks that thrived nearby.
Crystal Lake: The lake is known for excellent waterskiing, sailing, fishing, and kayaking. It lives up to its name with pristine water so clear you can see down to the bottom in the shallow areas.
Betsie Valley Trailway: The 22-mile rail trail –- on a former railroad line – runs from Frankfort to Thompsonville, passing through neighboring communities of Elberta and Beulah. It’s owned by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and operated by Benzie County. The trail is popular with cyclists and walkers alike.
Frankfort Beach & Dunes: A favorite beach is the Frankfort Public Beach and Playground, which provides public Lake Michigan access at the west end of Main Street in downtown Frankfort. It has accessible seating options and ADA walkways that allow wheelchair access to the beach. Twin piers and lighthouses extend into Lake Michigan and create Frankfort Harbor. Across Betsie Lake is the tiny town of Elberta and the Elberta Dunes, overlooking Lake Michigan.
Betsie River: This 54-mile waterway is a state-designated wild and scenic natural river that flows into Betsie Lake before emptying into Lake Michigan. Among anglers, it’s best known for its steelhead and salmon fishing.
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There’s lots to see and do in Frankfort in the summer. Check out the highlights in this video.
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Photo credit: Getty Images
