Music Heritage Trail
The Music Heritage Trail will take you from Idlewild to Baldwin and from Scottville to Ludington as it explores the historic music scene!
Ludington Pumped Storage Plant – Photo by Todd and Brad Reed Photography
Ludington's Pumped Storage Plant Generates Electricity
Ludington Pumped Storage Plant is One of the World's Largest "Batteries"!
Ludington’s Pumped Storage Plant is an engineering marvel. The 27 billion gallon reservoir, which measures 2.5 miles long and one mile wide, can generate up to 1,872 megawatts of electricity. That’s enough power to serve a community of 1.4 million residential customers. The plant was named one of Michigan’s Top 10 civil engineering projects for the 20th century.
Ludington Pumped Storage Plant Celebrated it’s 50th Anniversary in 2023. In February of 2011, Consumers Energy and Detroit Edison announced an $800 million upgrade to the Pumped Storage Plant. This project began in 2013, upgrading the generating capacity from 1,872 megawatts to 2,172 megawatts and replacing its six turbines with more efficient models. The six-year project was estimated to increase the plant’s generating capacity by 15%. The Lake Winds Energy Park constructed in Summit and Riverton townships just east of the plant will also increase the pumped storage capacity.
Called the “Project” by locals, the plant can be reached by driving south on Lakeshore Drive, off Old US-31. Visitors can climb to the observation deck, which overlooks the plant’s 842-acre reservoir. The view is incredible from the top, with Stearns Beach and the Ludington North Breakwater Light clearly visible in the distance. The observation deck is open Memorial Day-Labor Day.
The Ludington Pumped Storage Plant was built from 1969-1973, employs 36 area residents, and is co-owned by Consumers Energy and Detroit Edison. At night when the demand for electricity is low, the reversible turbines pump water uphill from Lake Michigan through six large pipes to the reservoir. During the day when demand for electricity is higher, water flows back down through the penstocks, turning turbines that produce power. This simple technology enables the plant to respond quickly to the highs and lows of Michigan’s energy demand.
In respect for the environment and Lake Michigan, the Ludington Pumped Storage Plant has taken great care to protect fish. Every spring, workers install a 2 1/2 mile long barrier net to keep perch, salmon, and trout away from the plant. It is removed in the fall, as the severe winters would damage it. Deer roam freely on the hilly grounds, and a variety of birds make their home in boxes found around the plant.
Lake Winds Energy Park
Also owned and operated by Consumers Energy, the Lake Winds Energy Park is located in the midst of rural Mason County. Read our story about the Lake Winds Energy Park here.
Explore More Trails & Tours!
Fall Color Tour
Enjoy an afternoon drive around the Ludington area in October and fill your senses with the vibrant colors of fall.
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!
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.
Scroll below for more articles about the Ludington area activities and attractions.
Experience the Activities and Attractions of Ludington!
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.
Travel Itineraries
No matter if your looking for a family friendly vacation or a getaway for two, Ludington is a great vacation spot, any time of year.
Farmer’s Markets & U-Pick Farms
Farm Markets & U-Pick farms offer locally grown and organic produce, flowers, plants, seeds, and more in West Michigan.
Victory Township Park on Upper Hamlin Lake
Enjoy a picnic by Upper Hamlin Lake. With grills, a pavilion and picnic tables available, this park provides the perfect family setting.
Sandcastles Children’s Museum
Children can create, explore, and discover by playing with the numerous variety of exhibits of Sandcastles Children’s Museum.
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.
