Mason County Cultural Trails
Mason County is home to several trails that tell stories with fascinating histories. Explore these self-guided tours to learn about each one!
Accessible Walkways at Stearns Park Beach in Ludington
Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography
Everyone Can Enjoy Stearns Beach Due to Accessible Walkways
The beauty of Stearns Beach in Ludington makes it one of the most popular beaches along Lake Michigan. While most of us can walk through the sand to Lake Michigan’s shoreline, many cannot–those in wheelchairs or people who have motor disabilities. Even families have great difficulty pushing strollers or wagons through the sand. But this has all changed. Disability Connections of West Michigan and the City of Ludington partnered to install accessible walkways at Stearns Beach.
Stearns Park Beach was voted the fifth most accessible walkway in the nation.
The north walkway begins at the sidewalk by the North Concession Stand run by Sunset Side Concessions and covers the 300 yards down to the water. The south walkway starts from the concrete walkway out to the pier and continues down to the beach area. There is also a walkway in the middle of the beach.
Two sections of 20 boards each would complete the semi-circle at the south walkway’s end. Each board costs $100 and is available for engraving. For more information or to purchase a board, call Deb Wright at (231) 845-6445.
There is a total of 600 boards that make up each walkway, with each board costing $35. Enough money was raised to build the walkway through various donations, including a large $10,000 anonymous gift. Firebird Laser Engraving of Ludington etched the names or special messages onto the boards, so generations to come can appreciate the beach and the community support that made this project possible.
It’s a small price to pay for such an important addition to Stearns Beach, allowing everyone to enjoy the beach and water.
More Activities & Attractions in Ludington...
Ludington Art Scene
Ludington is alive with an array of artistic events that take place throughout the year. There’s music, photography, art galleries, and more.
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.
Power
The Ludington Pumped Storage Plant and Lakewinds Energy Park are the two main sources of energy that power Ludington! Check them out!
Fishing
There are many places for anglers to try their luck, and Ludington has such a great variety of fish. The area also has great charter captains.
Sandcastles Children’s Museum
Children can create, explore, and discover by playing with the numerous variety of exhibits of Sandcastles Children’s Museum.
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.
Hamlin Lake Beach
The Hamlin Lake Beach within the Ludington State Park is fun for the whole family! With a dedicated, weed-free swimming area and more!
Murals of Ludington
Within the downtown Ludington region, several murals grace the façades of local area businesses, telling stories of the area’s rich history.