Secluded rural living and expansive parks in Marathon Township
Marathon Township may look like acres of land, but there's a lot more charm. “It’s definitely more than meets the eye,” says Realtor with B&B Realty Solutions Susan Simpson. “It’s like a Hallmark Movie. We’re kind of hidden.” Columbiaville and Otter Lake make up this tiny but mighty community offering country living but proximity to city life.
Marathon Township is a rural community with Columbiaville as it's town core.
Enjoy a picnic along Otter Lake in Marathon Township.
1/2
Rustic farmhouses on spacious country lots
Homebuyers looking for land in their properties will certainly find it here as many homes carry lot sizes up to 15 acres. Homes here were typically built throughout the 20th century, with some homes receiving remodeling upgrades within the past ten years. “There’s a lot of farmhouses and ranch styles. There’s a lot of nice upper-end houses there on the lake,” Simpson says. “Many people who move to the country may have some dogs and horses. That’s something you’ll definitely see.” Standard amenities of these homes include three bedrooms and one and a half bathrooms. Interior spaces range from 1,500 to 2,000 sq ft, and home prices range from $200,000 to $400,000. However, if you’re closer to the lakes or receiving a private lot, prices can exceed $800,000.
A Colonial Revival rests on a large lot in Marathon Township.
Ranch homes with large, multi-acre lots are common in Marathon.
Otter Lake Park sits on the south side of the lake and is located in Marathon Township.
1/3
Columbiaville hiking, community parks, and the popular Otter Lake
Marathon Township is home to many outdoor recreation sites ideal for those looking for a peaceful hike or a thrilling boat ride. Scenic views can be explored along the 10 miles of the Southern Links Trailway. Hikers can walk through Columbiaville, Otter Lake and Millington communities to see their fields, forests and farmlands. Columbiaville is home to five parks, all with different amenities. Those looking to gather the family for some sports activities can enjoy the ballfields and disc golf course at Sports Park. Those looking for easy access to the water can do so within Marina and Vermilya Park. Spend summer days along the Otter Lake campground. The campground sits right next to the all-sports lake where you can participate in water activities of fishing, boating, kayaking or scuba diving. You can also enjoy the tennis and basketball courts, and kids can frolic through the playground.
There are several spots to enjoy the outdoors at Veterans Memorial Park.
Otter Lake, in Marathon Township, was founded in 1838 and relied on timber cutting for revenue.
1/2
Served by Lakeville Community Schools
Students can spend all years of school within Lakeville Community Schools, the district serving the town, which holds a C minus Niche grade. Grades K through four students can attend Columbiaville Elementary School, which has a C Niche grade. Middle Schoolers can head to Lakeville Middle School, which carries a C minus Niche grade. Lastly, diplomas can be earned from Lakeville Memorial High School, which holds a C Niche grade. Students can take introduction careers at the Genesee Career Institute, which offers 40 different career and technical courses from several fields.
Lakeville High School serves the region around Columbiaville, it has a 20 to 1 ratio.
LakeVille Middle School, a key part of the LakeVille Community Schools district, serving students from several surrounding townships.
Columbiaville Elementary School serves Marathon Township's youngest children.
1/3
Burger joints and other bites around town
When it comes to Marathon Township dining, it’s all local. Amy’s Downtown Reservoir is a neighborhood favorite. Located right by the water, you’ll run into classic American choices of burgers and sandwiches. Falcon’s Nest Family Dining also serves traditional American bites. If you want to take on a food challenge, try their Falconator burger. If you’re out towards Otter Lake, stop in the newest joint, Jaspers Dine and Dip, for more classic American dishes. Most grocery shopping and other everyday essentials are done outside the neighborhood towards Lapeer. However, the community does carry little convenience stores.
Residents can grab grocery staples at Walkers Grocery in Marathon Township.
Amy's Downtown Reservoir offers a friendly atmosphere in Marathon Township.
1/2
Numerous local events bring neighbors together
You’ll find plenty of opportunities to meet your neighbors because there are events within the area monthly. “They might have a Chili Cook-Off in Columbiaville,” Simpson says. “They have their fall festival and their tree lighting. Usually, one or two events per month.” 114 acres of blueberries take center stage at the Blueberry Lake Farms Annual Blueberry Festival in Otter Lake. The weekend event has music, vendors, food and wine, and of course, you pick blueberries. “Otter Lake has an underwater pumpkin carving contest,” Simpson says. “It’s hilarious. They pop out of the water and bring their pumpkins that have fun carvings.”
Detroit is less than two hours away
A trip to Detroit is about 75 miles from the area, hitting Interstate 75. Bishop International Airport is the closest airport located 30 miles west. This airport offers non-stop flights to 11 domestic locations that can then connect you to further destinations. So, when you’re driving through Marathon Township, make sure to stop by and look around.
Photography Contributed By
Christopher Shires
Video By
Mallory Nolte
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Teresa Beaumont,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
View GreatSchools Rating Methodology
Welcome to your private slice of paradise—where peaceful country living meets the ultimate space for entertaining. Nestled on 8.5 acres of breathtaking land, this stunning 2,000 sq ft ranch offers the perfect balance of quiet seclusion and unforgettable gathering spaces. Step inside to discover a thoughtfully designed home featuring 3 spacious bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, and two inviting living
OPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 6/7/26 12P-2P Welcome home to this stunning 4 bedroom, 3 bath home in Columbiaville! Situated on 1.33 acres with beautiful views of Holloway Reservoir, this property offers the perfect blend of comfort, space, and location. Enjoy being just minutes from the nearby boat launch for easy access to this all-sports lake, while also being close to parks and trails. Inside, you’ll love
Custom waterfront home offering a rare combination of privacy, recreation, and entertaining space in a small-town setting. This iconic Columbiaville building has been converted into a residential home with a large addition, this unique property sits on two city lots with no neighboring homes in lakeview sight and overlooks an excellent walleye fishing area. The home features 3 bedrooms, 3 full
Unique property on over 2 acres at the end of a cul de sac next to a biking & walking trail. There is a pond located on this quiet, friendly neighborhood. Detached 2 car barn-style garage has a upper level for storage or recreational room and has 220 & water. Another lean-to garage off the back. Good furnace. New well. Great purchase and opportunity to make it yours.
Welcome to your private slice of paradise—where peaceful country living meets the ultimate space for entertaining. Nestled on 8.5 acres of breathtaking land, this stunning 2,000 sq ft ranch offers the perfect balance of quiet seclusion and unforgettable gathering spaces. Step inside to discover a thoughtfully designed home featuring 3 spacious bedrooms, 3 full bathrooms, and two inviting living
Opportunity awaits! This home has been taken down to the studs, offering a blank canvas for investors, builders, or ambitious homeowners ready to bring their vision to life. With much of the demolition already completed, the hard work of starting over has been done for you. The current layout presents the potential to create a charming 2-bedroom home with both bedrooms situated on the upper level
Welcome to your own private retreat! Nestled on nearly 3 beautiful acres, this meticulously maintained property is truly a labor of love and offers the perfect blend of comfort, functionality, and outdoor enjoyment. From the moment you arrive, the curb appeal and pride of ownership are undeniable. Inside, you’ll find a spacious and inviting open-concept layout connecting the living room and
This two-story home sits on just over 2.5 acres and offers plenty of space and potential. The main level features a first-floor bedroom and a spacious great room with an open-to-the-second-floor design, creating a bright and airy feel. Upstairs, you’ll find two additional bedrooms and a full bath. A two-car attached garage adds convenience, and the home is equipped with a newer furnace. With room
Scenic 5-Acre Country Ranch – Your Private Parklike Sanctuary! Escape to the peace of the country in this beautifully updated, move-in-ready 3-bedroom ranch. Set on 5 breathtaking, parklike acres, this home offers the rare combination of rural privacy, efficient natural gas, and close proximity to top local spots. Enjoy ultimate peace of mind with major mechanical updates already taken care of,
Beautiful views of all sports Hemingway Lake from this expansive waterfront building site. Ready for you to build your Dream home. The driveway is in and the land is ready to receive your vision of what lake life should look like. Boating, Swimming, Jet Skiing you can enjoy it all with 312 feet of waterfrontage. Sunsets and sandy beach await come live the lake life!
Attention builders. This two acres has been recently divided into three separate building lots. Parcels A, B and C are newly divided parcels which are approved residential lots available and ready for new construction. Zoning is R-4 residential and will accommodate small homes (600 sq. ft. minimum) and flexibility for duplex type structures. A nice location for a barndominiums or tiny homes, .
9.5 acres parcel that is partially wooded. Paved Walking/Biking path easement through the back portion of the property. Adjacent 10 acre parcel to the west with a beautiful 2600 sq. ft. home and 42 ft. x 76 ft. pole barn is also available for sale under MLS Listing #20250004043.
Positioned in the heart of downtown Columbiaville, this beautifully restored historic building seamlessly blends original character with modern efficiency. Showcasing exposed 18” brick walls, beadboard ceilings, and original heart pine flooring, the property has been fully upgraded with new plumbing, mechanical systems, and six 200-amp electrical panels.Offering 6,000 SF across five
Katie Nolff DudzinskiThe Brokerage Real Estate Enthusiasts
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
