Lake Leelanau East Boat Launch

There's a low overhead power line right at the launch area. If you're running a sailboat with any kind of mast height, you need to pay serious attention or you'll have a very bad day. Powerboats and pontoons are fine.

Only 18 trailer spots, and during July and August weekends they're gone by mid-morning. If you're heading out on a Saturday, aim for 7 AM or earlier. There's no real overflow option nearby — you're just out of luck.

This launch puts you on the south basin, but you can get up to North Lake Leelanau through the Narrows if you want. Just take it slow through there — it's tight and shallow on the edges, and there's usually traffic coming both ways.

Two lanes with a decent grade that handles everything from bass boats to larger deck boats without drama. The concrete is in good shape and the water depth at the end of the ramp is solid enough that you're not scraping your skeg even in late summer when levels drop a bit.

Compared to some of the busier launches around Traverse City, this one has a calmer, more relaxed vibe. Leelanau County in general just doesn't have the same zoo factor. Weekdays here you might have the whole place to yourself.