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!
Photo by Todd & Brad Reed Photography
The west coast of Michigan, from New Buffalo up through Empire, is known for its sand dunes. But even Hamlin Lake, just north of Ludington, has sand dunes that people love to visit- by boat or by car! Located on the northwest section of the lake, you can climb the dune (which is within the Ludington State Park) and see Lake Michigan on the other side. Many take their boats or jet skis and anchor them on the beach at the base of the dune. It’s a popular destination for those who want to spend some time on the sand, lying in the sun or enjoying a picnic.
On the southwest side of Hamlin Lake in the State Park you can climb Mt. Baldy. It’s quite a trek, but once you reach the top you’ll experience terrific views of Lake Michigan. Be sure to visit the Ludington State Park, even if you’re not camping. It offers so many fun activities for people of all ages. Take a hike out to Big Sable Point Lighthouse and climb the 112 foot tower. It’s open daily from 10am-5pm; donation is $3. Remember your visit with a souvenir from the gift shop, located in the original Keeper’s Quarters. Hike or bike on the various trails that meander through the park, swim at Hamlin Beach, or take a relaxing tube ride down the Sable River. By the end of the day you’ll be exhausted from all the fresh air and fun- the way it should be. Nothing feels better than being outdoors and taking advantage of all Mother Nature has to offer.
Hamlin Lake- with its resorts, boating, and fishing, is THE place for fun in the Ludington area. And don’t forget to check out the sand dunes that tower over the lake. They’re an adventure themselves!
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.
Small destinations within themselves, visitors of Hamlin Lake will go on an adventure to find their perfect dune.
Cast your line into Upper Hamlin Lake or enjoy a picnic, the playground, or watch Hamlin Lake's Independence Fireworks at Wilson Hill Park.
With some of the best fishing and boating around, Hamlin Lake brings much delight as well as some of the most beautiful, scenic backdrops.
Read about the history of Hamlin Lake, when it was created, and the major role this lake played in the milling industry in Ludington.
Convenient and online, this Hamlin Lake Business Directory features businesses of interest in the Hamlin Lake area.
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.
Explore Hamlin Lake by boat, and you'll see why Hamlin Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Michigan. Over 5,000 acres, pure enjoyment!
Enjoy a picnic by Upper Hamlin Lake. With grills, a pavilion and picnic tables available, this park provides the perfect family setting.
Hamlin Lake is home to several parks and numerous dunes for exploration and leisure. Pack a picnic, cast your line, and enjoy the sites.
Enjoy this small, relaxing park as an easy place to place your boat in the water or throw a line out to catch some pan fish for dinner.
This Hamlin Lake Fishing Map details what kind of fish you might catch in various sections of the lake. Helpful for all anglers.
If there's one thing that Hamlin Lake is known for, it's excellent fishing. Catch crappie, bluegill, and more across thousands of acres.
Long Skinny Park is located on Lower Hamlin Lake between the South and Middle bayous. Perfect for fishing or taking in the view.
Read about the mighty dam that lives in Hamlin Lake, how it came to be and how it is utilized to help protect this man-made lake.
Hamlin Lake is where you want to be. It offers terrific summer recreation, including swimming, boating, tubing, and more!
The Hamlin Lake Beach within the Ludington State Park is fun for the whole family! With a dedicated, weed-free swimming area and more!
The Michigan DNR has announced that Ludington State Park will be closed from September 3rd, 2024-July 1st, 2025 for improvements.
Small destinations within themselves, visitors of Hamlin Lake will go on an adventure to find their perfect dune.
Cast your line into Upper Hamlin Lake or enjoy a picnic, the playground, or watch Hamlin Lake's Independence Fireworks at Wilson Hill Park.
With some of the best fishing and boating around, Hamlin Lake brings much delight as well as some of the most beautiful, scenic backdrops.
Read about the history of Hamlin Lake, when it was created, and the major role this lake played in the milling industry in Ludington.
Convenient and online, this Hamlin Lake Business Directory features businesses of interest in the Hamlin Lake area.
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.
Explore Hamlin Lake by boat, and you'll see why Hamlin Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Michigan. Over 5,000 acres, pure enjoyment!
Enjoy a picnic by Upper Hamlin Lake. With grills, a pavilion and picnic tables available, this park provides the perfect family setting.
Hamlin Lake is home to several parks and numerous dunes for exploration and leisure. Pack a picnic, cast your line, and enjoy the sites.
Enjoy this small, relaxing park as an easy place to place your boat in the water or throw a line out to catch some pan fish for dinner.
This Hamlin Lake Fishing Map details what kind of fish you might catch in various sections of the lake. Helpful for all anglers.
If there's one thing that Hamlin Lake is known for, it's excellent fishing. Catch crappie, bluegill, and more across thousands of acres.
Long Skinny Park is located on Lower Hamlin Lake between the South and Middle bayous. Perfect for fishing or taking in the view.
Read about the mighty dam that lives in Hamlin Lake, how it came to be and how it is utilized to help protect this man-made lake.
Hamlin Lake is where you want to be. It offers terrific summer recreation, including swimming, boating, tubing, and more!
The Hamlin Lake Beach within the Ludington State Park is fun for the whole family! With a dedicated, weed-free swimming area and more!
The Michigan DNR has announced that Ludington State Park will be closed from September 3rd, 2024-July 1st, 2025 for improvements.
Small destinations within themselves, visitors of Hamlin Lake will go on an adventure to find their perfect dune.
Cast your line into Upper Hamlin Lake or enjoy a picnic, the playground, or watch Hamlin Lake's Independence Fireworks at Wilson Hill Park.
Mason County is home to several trails that tell stories with fascinating histories. Explore these self-guided tours to learn about each one!
Disc golf is a big deal here in the Ludington area, with up to 20,000 people per year visiting one of our six courses.
One of the most popular state parks in the Midwest offers a vacation within itself. Enjoy beautiful natural resources and endless activities.
West Michigan weather – they say if you don’t like the weather in Ludington, wait a few minutes and it will change.
Hamlin Lake is where you want to be. It offers terrific summer recreation, including swimming, boating, tubing, and more!
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 Maritime Heritage Trail highlights the lighthouses, industries, art, and figures that make up the maritime history of Mason County!
If there’s one thing that Hamlin Lake is known for, it’s excellent fishing. Catch crappie, bluegill, and more across thousands of acres.
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.
Is your business located in Ludington? Contact us today to learn about advertising opportunities with VisitLudington.com.
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