[3] Garfield Township is the largest municipality in Northern Lower Michigan by population.

The Boardman River flows from south to north in the east of the township.

Kids Creek, a south to north stream, also flows through the township.

Two lines of the Great Lakes Central Railroad run through the east of the township, paralleling the Boardman River on either side.

All townships listed are part of Grand Traverse County, unless otherwise stated.

Traverse City Area Public Schools (TCAPS) serves the entirety of Garfield Township.

Secondary students within the east of the township are zoned to Traverse City Central High School, while secondary students within the west of the township are zoned to Traverse City West Senior High School.