The Baby Badger
A children’s flotilla that’s a miniature replica of the historic S.S. Badger carferry. Children get to ride in one of many “cars”.
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Ludington School Forest
To anyone passing by, it may look like any ordinary wooded area, but the Ludington School Forest is far from ordinary. Within this quarter square mile in northeast Ludington, you’ll find trails for biking, hiking, snowshoeing, even a disc golf course!
North of Bryant Road and east of Sherman is a 1.8 mile section of bike trail, thanks to the hard work from the Shoreline Cycling Club. Another .7 mile section winds from this area south, and a separate trail takes you from the northern most part of the School Forest all the way down to Tinkham Avenue.
Hiking Trails
East of Sherman and north of Tinkham is where you’ll find the hiking trails- popular in the warmer seasons for hikers, and during the winter it’s a haven for those who cross country ski and snowshoe. The trails are labeled East Loop and West Loop. The more open land is found in the East Loop, which is approximately 1.5 miles in length. The West Loop is more heavily wooded and is 1.25 miles long. Dogs are allowed on the hiking trails, provided they are leashed and picked up after. No alcohol or smoking is allowed, as this is school property. No restrooms are available.
Directions
When turning right onto Jebavy Dr. traveling west on US-10, you will see the School Forest disc golf course entrance on your left.
Disc Golf Course
One of Mason County’s six disc golf courses is found within the Ludington School Forest. Leviathan, set upon 150 acres, is actually two courses- one is 7,925 feet and the other is 4,367 feet. There is a parking area off Jebavy Drive where you can park and access the golf course. Mason County is known around the country as being a premier spot for disc golf. The Michigan State Disc Golf Championship is held in this area every Labor Day Weekend, where 400 of the best disc golfers in the state compete for the top prize.
With all the natural wonders surrounding us, it’s nice to know you don’t have to travel far to enjoy wooded beauty, right here within Ludington’s city limits.
Looking for discs? Pere Marquette Expeditions carries all the top brands!
Discover more around Ludington!
Father Jacques Marquette Shrine
The Father Jacques Marquette Shrine marks where Father Marquette died in 1675. It’s a peaceful setting on Pere Marquette Lake in Ludington.
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.
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Experience the Beaches and Parks of Ludington!
Buttersville Park High on a Bluff Overlooking Lake Michigan
Admire Lake Michigan from the peak of a bluff — what a view! Bring your pet as well, as this beach is dog friendly!
Long Skinny Park
Long Skinny Park is located on Lower Hamlin Lake between the South and Middle bayous. Perfect for fishing or taking in the view.
Cartier Park
Take a walk through the woods at Cartier Park, featuring paved trails. This park is also home to “Central Bark,” Ludington’s only dog park.
Beaches & Parks
Ludington has many beautiful beaches and parks to explore. Enjoy a day on the shores of Lake Michigan or take in the scenery at a local park.
Pere Marquette Conservation Park
In 2021, the Pere Marquette Charter Township unveiled the new Pere Marquette Conservation Park, located on 300 acres of former Dow property.
Stearns Park & Beach
Picked by USA Today as one of the 51 Great American Beaches in the nation; Stearns Park & Beach is more than just golden sand.
