Power Island(Bassett Island)

For dining options near Power Island, Traverse City offers a variety of restaurants that cater to different tastes. Harrington's By The Bay is a popular choice, offering surf 'n' turf with a rustic ambiance and bay views. Another favorite is the Boathouse Restaurant, known for its eclectic menu and cottage vibe. For seafood lovers, Apache Trout Grill provides a chic hunting lodge atmosphere with bayside patio dining. Jolly Pumpkin Restaurant & Brewery offers a casual brewpub experience with house-brewed beers. Lastly, West End Tavern serves American fare in a cozy setting.

These restaurants provide a mix of casual and upscale dining experiences, each with its unique charm and offerings. Whether you're looking for seafood, American cuisine, or craft beer, there's something for everyone in Traverse City.

For accommodations near Power Island, Traverse City offers a range of hotels and resorts. The Anchor Inn provides laid-back summer rooms and cottages with a bayside location, perfect for those seeking a relaxed atmosphere. The Grand Beach Resort Hotel offers lakefront rooms with private balconies and free breakfast, ideal for families. Another option is Tru by Hilton Traverse City, which offers modern amenities like free Wi-Fi and breakfast. The Baywatch Resort provides casual beachfront accommodations with whirlpool tubs in the rooms.

These hotels cater to different preferences, from budget-friendly options to more luxurious stays, ensuring that visitors have a comfortable base to explore Power Island and the surrounding area.

Power Island offers several amenities to enhance the visitor experience. There are ten primitive campsites on Power Island and five on Bassett Island, each equipped with picnic tables, cooking grills, and campfire circles. The island features maintained restrooms and a boat dock, making it convenient for boaters. Picnic areas are available, providing scenic spots to enjoy meals. Drinking water is accessible near the dock on Power Island, though there is no water available on Bassett Island.

The island's trail system allows visitors to explore the natural beauty of the area, with over five miles of hiking trails. Sandy beaches are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. However, there are no trash facilities, so visitors must take their litter with them when leaving.

The island's rustic setting encourages a connection with nature, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Power Island offers a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the crystal-clear waters of West Grand Traverse Bay or explore the island's hiking trails, which provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Boating is a popular activity, with the island's boat dock serving as a convenient access point. Fishing is also a favorite pastime, with the bay offering a rich source of fish species.

For nature lovers, the island is a haven for wildlife viewing, with opportunities to spot local birds and other wildlife. Kayaking and paddleboarding are great ways to explore the waters around the island. The island's serene environment also makes it perfect for relaxation and picnicking.

Whether you're looking for adventure or tranquility, Power Island has something to offer.

While Power Island itself does not offer specific disability access features, nearby Traverse City provides several accessible options. The city has wheelchair-accessible attractions like the Dennos Museum Center and the State Theatre. Additionally, mobility rentals are available in Traverse City, including beach wheelchairs for off-pavement adventures.

However, accessing Power Island requires a boat, which may present challenges for those with mobility issues. Planning ahead and arranging for accessible transportation or accommodations in Traverse City can help ensure a smoother experience for visitors with disabilities.

The surrounding area offers resources and support for visitors with disabilities, making it easier to explore the region.

Parking for Power Island is not directly available on the island itself, as it is accessible only by boat. Visitors typically park their vehicles at marinas like Clinch Park Marina or Bower's Harbor Marina, from where they can take a boat to the island. These marinas offer ample parking facilities for cars and trailers, making it convenient to launch boats and access the island.

There are no parking fees specifically for Power Island, but marinas may charge for parking and boat launching services. The distance from the marinas to the island ranges from 3.5 to 6.5 miles, depending on the departure point.

Planning ahead is essential, as visitors need to arrange for boat transportation to reach the island.

Power Island has a rich and intriguing history. It was once owned by Henry Ford, who hosted notable figures like U.S. presidents and industrial giants. The island has been known by several names throughout its history, including Ford Island and Rennie Island. There are also tales of ghostly encounters, adding a layer of mystery to the island's natural beauty.

In the early 1900s, a two-story dance pavilion was built on nearby Bassett Island, which was a popular spot for parties and entertainment. Today, Power Island is the largest undeveloped island on the Great Lakes, making it a unique gem in the region.

The island's preservation as a quiet nature preserve ensures that its natural state is maintained for future generations to enjoy.

Power Island is surrounded by several attractions that enhance its appeal. The nearby Leelanau Peninsula and Old Mission Peninsula offer scenic drives and beautiful vineyards. Traverse City itself is a charming town with a vibrant downtown area, featuring shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions like the Dennos Museum Center.

For nature enthusiasts, the surrounding waters of West Grand Traverse Bay provide opportunities for fishing and boating. The island's connection to Bassett Island via an isthmus during low water levels adds to its unique charm. Additionally, the area is rich in historical sites, including former industrial and Native American settlements.

Visitors can also explore other nearby islands, though some are privately owned and not accessible to the public.