Photo by Craig Sterken 

Enjoy the Hamlin Lake Canoe Trail, a Beautiful Waterway!

What’s a favorite activity for Hamlin Lake area residents and visitors? With so many things to do, it’s nearly impossible to list them all but one of the favorite pastimes has to be canoeing along the beautiful shoreline of Hamlin Lake.

Within the Ludington State Park, canoeing and kayaking enthusiasts love the Hamlin Lake Canoe Trail- a marked waterway which makes for a wonderful 2-4 hour diversion. The time needed to traverse the trail depends upon skill level and weather conditions, but the 2-4 hour estimate is typical under most circumstances. You can travel the waters by yourself, or take advantage of the guided canoe trips offered through Dune Grass Concessions. A Michigan DNR interpretive specialist will explain the flora, fauna, and history of the area. For more information, call (231) 843-1888.

Dune Grass Concessions
Lakeshore Food Guide Download

The Hamlin Lake Canoe Pathway begins and ends at the Hamlin Lake Watercraft Rental/Dune Grass Concessions area near the swimming beach. At the concession you can rent paddle boats, canoes, kayaks, tandem kayaks, stand up paddle boards, and rowboats. Once you have your watercraft, you can cross the river and head into Hamlin Lake. As you travel close to the south shore, you’ll enjoy a variety of landscapes, from a swampy area filled with reeds and cattails, to the “Carp Ponds,” named for the many carp that spawn there in the spring. Within the marshlands along the trail is an excellent habitat for duck, geese, herons, and others.

Near the beginning of the Hamlin Lake Canoe Trail you’ll encounter two large, sandy hills, known as Desperation Point. Local sailors gave it this name because of the unpredictable shifting winds found there. The trail is not demanding for a canoeist with minimal experience, but care should be taken to avoid various submerged tree stumps. Ask about guided canoe trips, where a Michigan DNR interpretive specialist explains the flora, fauna, and history of the area.

Experience Hamlin Lake

Hamlin Lake is a beautiful 5,000 acre water paradise just north of Ludington in West Michigan! Read the stories below or go to the Hamlin Lake destination page.

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.

Small destinations within themselves, visitors of Hamlin Lake will go on an adventure to find their perfect dune.

Explore More Trails & Tours!

Scroll below for more articles about the Ludington area activities and attractions.
 

Experience the Activities and Attractions of Ludington!

Hamlin Lake Dunes

Hamlin Lake Sand Dunes

Small destinations within themselves, visitors of Hamlin Lake will go on an adventure to find their perfect dune.

Charter Boat Fishing

No matter your experience level, Ludington area charter captains will guide you in what to bring and what to expect on the big lake.

Ludington Skate Plaza

The Ludington Skate Plaza is a popular spot for kids with skateboards or in-line skates, and also draws spectators to Stearns Park.

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.

Marinas

Arrive in Ludington by boat and dock at one of three marinas: Ludington Municipal Marina, Harbor View Marina, & Pere Pointe Village Marina.

Pet Friendly Places

Your pet should feel right at home in Ludington. There are many businesses that allow pets and parks and beaches for them to play on.