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 spot 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 serves surrounding communities.
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.
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
Holly Clouthier,
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
Gorgeous Country Setting in Lakeville Schools!This home is the true definition of pride in ownership! Nestled in a beautiful country setting, you’ll love the thoughtfully landscaped yard and the spacious 16x40 deck with fresh stain—perfect for relaxing or entertaining. Inside, the home offers 3 bedrooms and 1.5 baths, with new waterproof vinyl flooring throughout for easy maintenance and
Beautifully updated open floorplan ranch home on 10 acres in Otter Lake! This move-in ready property features a newer roof, windows, furnace, and gutters, along with fresh paint and new flooring throughout. The home includes an attached oversized garage and a powerful 9,000-watt backup generator for peace of mind. Enjoy the best of country living with natural gas, a paved road, and plenty of open
Nice country ranch with beautiful setting! This 3-bedroom 1 bath ranch has a fantastic layout! Large living room plus spacious eat-in kitchen! Appliances included plus washer and dryer too! Whole house generator is a huge bonus! Home has tons of potential and is in need of cosmetic updating throughout! Great location close to Otter Lake, Southern Links Trailway bike path, or just enjoying country
Turn the Key and Toast to the Season!Welcome to 4045 Flint River Road — this move-in-ready ranch has been lovingly upkept and thoughtfully remodeled over the last five years. Updates started in 2020, including a new roof, vinyl tile/plank flooring, water heater, stainless steel appliances, updated bathrooms, garage door opener, and ceiling fans. In 2024, the home received even more care, with
Nice newly redone 2 bedroom 1 bath apartment in downtown Columbiaville. New paint. New vinyl plank floors. New refrigerator and new stove! Water sewer and trash included in rent. MSHDA and HDC accepted.
Walk Score® measures the walkability of any address. Transit Score® measures access to public transit. Bike Score® measures the 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.
