Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography
The Salt Industry began here when sawmill owners discovered massive underground brine wells. Ludington soon became one of America’s top salt-producing cities.
Built for the lumber industry, it later served the salt, sand, and chemical industries and established Ludington as a major Great Lakes port.
The Carferries were initiated in 1896 at Ludington by the F&PM Railroad. Today, Lake Michigan Carferry Service carries on that tradition with the Badger.
The Lumbering Era flourished in Ludington with nine sawmills using the river to move cut trees from vast inland pine forests and Lake Michigan to ship out milled lumber.
Commercial Fishing began here in the late 19th century, and the area later became one of the Lake Michigan’s most popular sport fishing destinations.
The Shipbuilding Industry began here with the first schooner built in 1869. Local shipbuilders produced over 50 commercial vessels and dozens of pleasure boats.
Ghost Towns were all that remained on the Buttersville Peninsula after the pine forests were depleted and lumber industry workers and fishermen relocated.
The Station Fleet, consisting of eight different life saving vessels, including the beloved 44-foot motor lifeboat, operated for 70 years at the 1934 Coast Guard Station.
The Station Boat Launch originally allowed rescue vessels, including the beloved 44-foot motor lifeboat, operated for 70 years at the 1934 Coast Guard Station.
The 1934 Coast Guard Station, built during the Great Depression, was critical to serve and protect the year-round carferry operation at Ludington.
Developing the Harbor began in 1860 to give vessels access into Pere Marquette Lake for efficient shipment of lumber. By 1914 improvements made it a harbor of refuge.
Built in 1879 on the channel’s south side, was later relocated to the north side, then transferred to the Coast Guard in 1915 and used until 1934.
The Music Heritage Trail will take you from Idlewild to Baldwin and from Scottville to Ludington as it explores the historic music scene!
The Barn Quilt Trail, highlighting the lost art of barn decor, is one of four trails that comprise the Mason County Cultural Trails.
Both beginners and experienced cyclists will enjoy the variety of trails available to explore in Ludington!
Water fun in the Ludington State Park! Float down the Big Sable River, paddle Hamlin Lake water trails, launch a pleasure boat, or swim!
Agriculture plays a large role in the economics of Mason County. Take this self-guided tour to learn about agriculture in Mason County.
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.
Discover all of the different trails and tours that Ludington has to offer! Discover a water path, hiking trail, or an art work stop!
The Ludington Pumped Storage Plant and Lakewinds Energy Park are the two main sources of energy that power Ludington! Check them out!
Mason County is home to several trails that tell stories with fascinating histories. Explore these self-guided tours to learn about each one!
Within the downtown Ludington region, several murals grace the façades of local area businesses, telling stories of the area’s rich history.
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