Trail Guide for Ludington State Park
The Ludington State Park trails are as varied as they are beautiful. Hike or bike 18 miles of eight marked trails with information kiosks.
Photo by Todd and Brad Reed Photography
Lake Winds Energy Park
The landscape of farm land in Mason County has drastically changed. Within Riverton and Summit townships, Consumers Energy has finished erecting 56 wind turbine generators, called the Lake Winds Energy Park. This 100 megawatt facility began operations on Thanksgiving Day, 2012; providing employment, economic, and tax benefits to the area.
Lake Winds Energy Park Wind Turbines
Location
Consumers Energy secured more than 16,000 acres south of Ludington and east of the current Ludington Pumped Storage Plant, also owned by Consumers. Mason County was chosen partly due to the positive wind force off Lake Michigan and also because of the wind ordinance here that ensures public safety. A wind analysis was conducted by Consumers Energy and it was determined that Riverton and Summit townships held the most potential for wind production.
Facts About the Park
Wind farms are basically a cluster of wind turbines that capture the wind and convert it to electricity. The 56 turbines in Lake Winds Energy Park are 476′ in height providing 100 megawatts of energy. Parts for the turbines arrived in Mason County via railroad and truck and were stored at the former Harbison-Walker plant on Pere Marquette Highway before being moved to their permanent location by tractor trailer. Wind power is seen by some to be the energy source of the future, and helps offset emissions of carbon dioxide and greenhouse gases. It is estimated that this project will bring $33 million directly and indirectly to Mason County, along with 150 construction jobs.
Ludington Pumped Storage Plant
Also owned and operated by Consumers Energy, the Ludington Pumped Storage Plant is an amazing sight to see. Read our Pumped Storage Plant story here.
Explore More Trails & Tours!
Mason County Agricultural Trail
Agriculture plays a large role in the economics of Mason County. Take this self-guided tour to learn about agriculture in Mason County.
Hamlin Lake Canoe & Kayak Trails
Take a paddle down the Hamlin Lake Canoe Trail. Venture out on the trip yourself, or join a guided trip lead by Dune Grass Concessions.
Mason County Barn Quilt Trail
The Barn Quilt Trail, highlighting the lost art of barn decor, is one of four trails that comprise the Mason County Cultural Trails.
Fall Color Tour
Enjoy an afternoon drive around the Ludington area in October and fill your senses with the vibrant colors of fall.
Scroll below for more articles about the Ludington area activities and attractions.
Experience the Activities and Attractions of Ludington!
Weather & Water Conditions
West Michigan weather – they say if you don’t like the weather in Ludington, wait a few minutes and it will change.
Cool Things to Do
Check out our picks for the top 50 coolest things to do in Ludington, Michigan, along the shores of Lake Michigan.
Lake Michigan S.S. Badger Carferry
The S.S. Badger Carferry is a fun and relaxing shortcut across Lake Michigan between Ludington, Michigan and Manitowoc, Wisconsin.
Aerial View of Big Sable Point
The aerial view of Big Sable Point features Hamlin Lake, Ludington State Park, and Big Sable Point Lighthouse on Lake Michigan.
Fishing on Hamlin Lake
If there’s one thing that Hamlin Lake is known for, it’s excellent fishing. Catch crappie, bluegill, and more across thousands of acres.
Explore the Natural Beauty of Hamlin Lake
With some of the best fishing and boating around, Hamlin Lake brings much delight as well as some of the most beautiful, scenic backdrops.
