It forms a waterway and harbor for the municipality of Elk Rapids.

When the larger lake's level dropped, a belt of sediment separated Elk Lake from Grand Traverse Bay, and a short, whitewater river, Elk River, formed to provide drainage for the smaller lake.

In the early 19th century, Euro-American settlers arrived.

[4] The rapids are quiet now, as a hydroelectric dam has been built.

Below the dam, the river opens out into Grand Traverse Bay and forms the harbor of Elk Rapids.