Lake Michigan S.S. Badger Carferry
The S.S. Badger Carferry is a fun and relaxing shortcut across Lake Michigan between Ludington, Michigan and Manitowoc, Wisconsin.
Photo by Craig Sterken
Ludington Weather & Water Temperatures
Ludington Weather Conditions
West Michigan weather – they say if you don’t like the weather in Ludington, wait a few minutes and it will change.
Along the Lake Michigan shoreline our weather patterns can hardly be called patterns. The Great Lakes have a tendency to create their own weather in their own way. That keeps the local forecasters on their toes. What’s forecasted isn’t what always happens. Weather that happens in Wisconsin doesn’t always make it across Lake Michigan, fronts in Canada that should miss us sometimes come barreling down, and sometimes “squalls” develop over the lakes from clear blue skies.
Visit forecast.weather.gov to get the most updated weather information for Ludington from the National Weather Service.
Lake Michigan Water Conditions
We residents of Ludington are blessed to have one of the Great Lakes right in our backyard. Lake Michigan is a vast, fresh water lake that is a haven for swimmers, boaters, and fishermen. The S.S. Badger carferry crosses Lake Michigan every day during the summer as a shortcut to Wisconsin. Though not as warm as the oceans, temperatures of Lake Michigan do rise to the high 60’s in July and August to make swimming enjoyable, and definitely refreshing! Rarely do temperatures make it to the 70’s, unless air temperatures stay up in the 90’s for many continuous days.
Our beaches in Ludington are some of the nicest and cleanest you’ll find anywhere. You can choose whether or not to join the crowds at the highly populated spots or find a private beach that’s less busy. Sunning, swimming, or building that special sand castle- Ludington’s beaches offer it all!
Visit coastwatch.msu.edu to get daily temperature readings of Lake Michigan in Ludington and for current swimming safety conditions, go to forecast.weather.gov.
Warmer Inland Lakes in West Michigan
If you find the water temperature of the “unsalted inland sea” is cooler than you prefer, no worries. When Lake Michigan is too chilly for your taste, head to the warmer inland waters of Hamlin Lake, Silver Lake, and many other inland lakes in Mason, Manistee, and Oceana Counties. Since these lakes are smaller and more protected by the surrounding land, they tend to warm more quickly than Lake Michigan.
More Environmental Information
UV Forecast– Get information on how much sunblock you need!
Air Quality Forecasts from the National Weather Service
Great Lakes Winds- The NOAA website shows you coastal wind speeds for Lake Michigan
More Activities & Attractions
More Activities & Attractions in Ludington...
Ludington’s Great Outdoors
Ludington has miles of beautiful beaches, the Ludington State Park, and all the activities that take place in Mother Nature’s playground.
Port of Ludington Maritime Museum
Step back in the past and learn about Ludington’s rich maritime history at the Port of Ludington Maritime Museum.
Charter Boat Fishing
No matter your experience level, Ludington area charter captains will guide you in what to bring and what to expect on the big lake.
Bicycle Trails
Both beginners and experienced cyclists will enjoy the variety of trails available to explore in Ludington!
Mason County Lumber Heritage Trail
The Lumber Heritage Trail, highlighting Mason County’s rich lumbering history, is one of four that comprise the Mason County Cultural Trails.
Murals of Ludington
Within the downtown Ludington region, several murals grace the façades of local area businesses, telling stories of the area’s rich history.
Mason County Sculpture Trail
The Mason County Sculpture Trail was launched in 2012 and includes nine sculptures in Ludington, Scottville, and Fountain.
Fishing
There are many places for anglers to try their luck, and Ludington has such a great variety of fish. The area also has great charter captains.
Value of Sports Museum
Visit the new Value of Sports Museum located at Historic White Pine Village just a short drive from Ludington.