Explore the Beauty of Ludington State Park Trails in Michigan
Ludington Park Trails
Ludington State Park is one of the most popular state parks in Michigan due largely to the endless natural beauty of Lake Michigan’s shoreline and access to 5,000 acres of sandy forested dunes and marshlands. With 21 miles of diverse trails, there are endless hiking opportunities to be found. Spend a day or even a week hiking the numerous trails which feature stunning lake vistas, forested trails, and sandy dunes.
The trail system is well marked and connects all throughout the park so you can easily add mileage and combine trails. Most of the trails are easy-moderate, although there are some stair climbs and steeper inclines, especially if you decide to conquer the dunes.
After camping here several times, for seven day stretches, we have explored the vast majority of trails at the state park. A couple of our favorite hikes include: Lost Lake & Island Trail Loop, Ludington Lighthouse Trail, Sable River Trail, Skyline Trail and The Logging Trail. Interested in camping at this Michigan State Park, here is a camping guide, as well as 10 Reasons to Visit Ludington State Park.
Parking: Entrance to a Michigan State Park requires a Recreation Passport. Michigan residents can purchase a yearly pass for $13.00 with their vehicle registration. There's a $5 convenience fee (except for Belle Isle Park) when the Recreation Passport is not purchased at the time of your license plate registration renewal through the Secretary of State. Non residents can purchase a daily pass for $11 and an annual pass for $40 as of 1/1/24. Make sure to pick up a trail map at the camp office or view this one online.
Dogs are allowed on trails but must be on a leash.
Lost Lake & Island Loop Trail (2.1 miles)
By far the most popular hike at the park, this trail has beauty around every turn. This 2.1 mile loop trail is ideal for all ages, especially appealing to children. Rated easy, besides the stairs climb and dune climb. The loop leads alongside the lake and through islands, over boardwalks, and up a set of stairs to bring you to the top of the sand dunes for a picturesque view. We went clockwise, which is what I would recommend for best sequence and views.
Parking: If you’re not camping, parking is available at Hamlin Park. Restrooms are available at the concession stand at Hamlin Lake. There is also a large playground nearby.
The trailhead starts at Hamlin Lake, this well marked trail has ample signage and benches located throughout so you can rest and take in the scenic views. An abundance of wildlife can be spotted throughout the trail system.
A picturesque spot to take a break is at the top of the dunes. Here you can slip off your shoes and race down the sand dune to cool off in Hamlin Lake. After the dune, you can expect the trail to gradually descend, down a flight of stairs past the overturned tree and over boardwalks.
Ridge Trail
Want additional miles, connect the Ridge Trail to the North end of Island Trail for a 5.5 mile hike. This section is a little more difficult, rated moderate, with exposed roots and steeper inclines. It provides some beautiful views of the dunes on the interior of the park.
Ludington Lighthouse Trail ( 2 miles)
Big Sable Point Lighthouse
This sandy trail will lead you to Big Sable Point Lighthouse. A 2 mile sunny hike, through the dunes on a sand trail which culminates at Lake Michigan’s beach and lighthouse. We attempted to bike, but ditched the bikes when we were a half mile from the lighthouse. We hiked the rest of the trail because the deep sand was too difficult for our tiny peddlers.
TIP The trail is full sun, so plan accordingly with sunscreen, hats and water bottles. We hiked in the evening to be able to see the sunset on Lake Michigan’s shoreline.
There are also Lighthouse tours of Big Sable Point Lighthouse. Admission to tour Big Sable $8.00 adults/ $5.00 for students from 10-5pm, May - October.
Skyline Trail (0.5 miles)
Hike on an elevated boardwalk along the ridge of a sand dune with stunning views. The trail starts off with a stair climb that continues to an elevated boardwalk with views of the Lake in the distance. Near the back side of the trail, if you’re daring enough, you can leave the boardwalk and run full tilt down the sand dune. The trail will exit to the Sable River Trail which runs along the Hamlin Dam and through the woods.
Sable River Trail (1 mile)
This trail is accessible for wheelchairs and leads along the Hamlin Dam, the river boardwalk, and a paved pathway. Interpretive signs share the historical information about fishing and the site through the years. This trail is a popular spot for fishing.
South End Ski Trails (6 miles)
Beginning at the West stairway of Skyline Trail, the Ski Trails consist of three looped trails connected together. Popular with skiers, the trails feature a combination of wooded pines, sand dune valleys and wetland areas.
Logging Trail (2.6 miles)
A quieter trail compared to the Lighthouse and Island Trail Loop. This hike is considered easy and starts off with lake views, includes a few climbs, but mostly a flat forested trail. Two fieldstone shelters are a highlight of the trail and a great place to stop and take a break. Highly recommend parking in the lot leading to Island Trail and then connect up with the Logging Trail.
Logging Trail Shelter
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Teton Sport Oasis Daypack
If you’re looking for a day pack for hiking, I highly recommend Teton Sport Oasis Day Pack which you can find here on Amazon. It is affordable, lightweight, and durable. Some features we love is that it has multiple pockets for all the essentials and includes a water hydration pack and rain cover. Having a hiking day pack stocked and ready has made hiking so much more manageable for our family. Instead of running around trying to collect items before we leave, I leave my pack in my vehicle ready to go. All I need to do is fill our water bottles and grab the stash of granola bars or snacks.
Closing Thoughts
If you’re looking for a fun family get away then you can’t go wrong choosing Ludington State Park for your next family adventure. Don’t forget to Save and Pin for later and follow Discovering Anew’s Facebook page for more Michigan Adventures and campground reviews. Subscribe to get emails right to your inbox. Happy Trails!
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