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!
Ludington's Great Outdoors
Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography
Ludington's Great Outdoors is a Natural Resources Paradise!
Here in the Ludington area, we have a LOT of “Great Outdoors!” We take pride in our miles of beautiful beaches, the Ludington State Park, the Manistee National Forest, and all the activities that take place in Mother Nature’s playground. Golfing, fishing, boating, hunting, biking, and endless winter activities. The fun is endless all four seasons of the year. Fresh, clean air and the great outdoors of West Michigan. It doesn’t get any better than this.
Beaches & Parks
What could be more enjoyable than a day at the beach? If your idea of a perfect summer day is swimming, sunning, or people-watching, then you’ve discovered paradise. Pretty parks and beaches are scattered throughout the region, some along the lakeshore, others among wooded regions. Most parks have picnic tables, grills, and playgrounds.
Bike Trails
The Ludington area has many safe and scenic areas in which to bike. You can choose to ride along the downtown waterfront, bike through a wooded forest, or take a trip out to the Ludington State Park. Either way, you’ll enjoy fresh air, exercise, and wonderful views.
Lighthouses
Lakeshore communities are blessed to have historic and beautiful lighthouses, and here in Ludington, you can visit these structures, which includes the North Breakwater Light and Big Sable Point Lighthouse.
In addition to the lighthouses in Ludington, there are many other lighthouses in West Michigan to explore. Read more about them here.
The Ludington State Park
It’s the #1 State Park in the Midwest, and here’s why! Campgrounds, lighthouse, dam, beaches, hiking, and biking trails and informative summertime programs give visitors so much to do. Woods, water, wildlife- you’ll find it all at the Ludington State Park.
Camping
Camping is becoming a very popular activity for families and couples. It’s inexpensive, and with all the forests and natural woodlands in Ludington, there’s never a shortage of campgrounds.
Nothing is better than sitting around a campfire with those you care about and enjoying all the activities within the campground; such as swimming, biking, hiking, and fishing.
Golf
Ludington has beautifully landscaped golf courses to enjoy. Swinging a golf club is relaxing and great exercise, and when you’ve got fresh air and gorgeous surroundings, why wouldn’t you want to head out on the links?
Disc Golf
Disc golf shares many similarities with traditional golf, but instead of a ball, players toss a disc down a course and try to get to the target in as few throws as possible. The winner is the player who completes the course with the lowest score. Ludington has many disc golf courses for you enjoy.
Fishing
Whether it’s fishing for salmon on Lake Michigan, trout in the PM River, or walleye in Hamlin Lake- we’ve got the best variety here in Ludington. And local fishing tournaments give anglers a chance to add a little money to their pocket in addition to the fish in their bucket.
More Outdoor Fun in West Michigan!
Silver Lake Sand Dunes and Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness
Life along Lake Michigan, with its often windy conditions, makes for some fantastic dune formations. Ride the dunes at Silver Lake for a thrilling experience or enjoy the quiet solitude of the Nordhouse Dunes. Strategically planted dune grass helps keep the sand in place, ensuring that these dunes will survive for thousands of years to come.
Fall Color Tour
Autumn is one of our most beautiful seasons in Ludington. The trees turn glorious colors, and the landscape is awash in golds, reds and oranges. Driving down one of our back roads is both relaxing and pleasing on the eye.
Winter Fun
There’s no need to hibernate during the winter months in West Michigan- not with all the great outdoor activities that use the snow for fun! For those who love snowshoeing or cross country skiing, you won’t have to travel far to enjoy your sport.
More Activities & Attractions in Ludington...
Sandcastles Children’s Museum
Children can create, explore, and discover by playing with the numerous variety of exhibits of Sandcastles Children’s Museum.
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!
Waterfront Park Sculptures
The bronzed sculptures in Ludington’s 5-acre Waterfront Park sets it apart from other parks. The park is situated on the Lake Michigan inlet.
Power
The Ludington Pumped Storage Plant and Lakewinds Energy Park are the two main sources of energy that power Ludington! Check them out!
Sunset Times
It rises and sets every single day, and nothing is more breathtaking than our spectacular sunsets over Lake Michigan.
Mason County Sculpture Trail
The Mason County Sculpture Trail was launched in 2012 and includes nine sculptures in Ludington, Scottville, and Fountain.
Bicycle Trails
Both beginners and experienced cyclists will enjoy the variety of trails available to explore in Ludington!
Big Sable Point Lighthouse at Ludington State Park
The black-and-white striped, 112 foot lighthouse at the Ludington State Park stands proudly on the shores of Lake Michigan.
Accessible Walkways at Stearns Park Beach
The three accessible walkways installed at Stearns Park Beach in Ludington allow everyone to make their way to the water and sand.