Shell Lake

Calm but cloudy day, signaling weather is coming.

NPS Photo

Quick Facts

Location:

GPS Coordinates 44.9497,-85.8982 

Amenities

2 listed

Beach/Water Access, Parking - Auto

Shell Lake, also known as Briggs Lake, is a relatively long, narrow lake north of Narada Creek. The lake can be accessed by driving west on West Lake Michigan Road to a small parking area on the left. There are no restrooms, however at the Shalda Creek area there are restrooms and also at the Good Harbor Beach. 

Shell lake is in a Wilderness area and is closed to the use of all power-driven vessels.The lake does not have a boat launch or dock. Access to the lake is by walking a short distance through the woods. 

The lake has a shallow, muck bottom, with an average depth of approximately eight feet. 
 

Paddle safe

Before going out for a paddle, check the weather. Have a boating plan and make sure others know it. Buddy up, don't go out alone. Check your boat and make sure it is safe for conditions. And always keep the shoreline in sight.

Wear It! 

The State of Michigan requires all vessels have a life jacket or personal flotation device for every person on board or being towed.

Clean Your Boats

Please clean, drain, and dry your boat after you leave any body of water, especially Lake Michigan, to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. This is especially important for our inland lakes. 

Shell Lake does not have a surface water inlet.  Water enters the lake from groundwater discharge. Fish species present in the lake include, bluntnose minnow, white sucker, banded killifish, bluegill, largemouth bass, pumpkinseed, smallmouth bass, Iowa darter, and yellow perch.