Stunning Michigan Winter Hikes at Ludington State Park
Ludington, Michigan
Ludington is a charming beach town on Lake Michigan. Peak season is in the summer months, but the winter offers a plethora of outdoor activities and stunning scenery. Only an hour and half drive from Grand Rapids, Ludington is an ideal winter getaway.
Visiting Ludington State Park
One of the most popular state parks in Michigan, it is surrounded by the natural beauty of Lake Michigan’s shoreline, sandy forested dunes and marshlands. In winter, Ludington becomes a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With 21 miles of diverse trails, there are endless hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and sledding opportunities. Spend a day or even a week exploring the numerous trails which feature stunning lake views, forested trails, a lighthouse, and sandy dunes. Visiting in winter when everything is covered in a blanket of snow, creates a peaceful and unique outdoor experience.
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Winter Activities and Events
Ludington State Park is open year-round for hiking, snowshoeing, and cross country skiing. Additionally the park hosts activities and events during the winter months for those who want to embrace Michigan’s winter beauty. There are dozens of lantern-lit night hikes occurring all throughout Michigan this winter, you can discover more here.
Lantern-Lit Trails
Imagine exploring a trail at night illuminated by lanterns. You can experience this magical lit trail at Ludington State Park, they offer special events with a 1 mile lighted trail that meanders along a beautiful wooded section near the Big Sable River. When you’re done adventuring, warm up with self serve hot cocoa and a bone fire located at both the Warming Shelter and the Amphitheater. This family-friendly event is free and no registration is needed. The hike begins at the Warming Shelter. TIP Arrive early to catch the sunset on Lake Michigan. Event is for both adults and children. I highly recommend bringing handwarmers and a headlamp. Check the schedule ahead of time
Dates: Dec 9, 2023 , Jan 6, Jan 20, Feb 3, Feb 17, March 2, 2024 from 6-8 pm
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 online map.
Dogs are allowed on trails, but must be on a 6 foot leash.
Snowshoe for Free
The park provides guided programs while you explore the beautiful outdoor scenery through woods, over bridges and snowy sand dunes. Throughout the winter these hikes start at the warming shelter, located near the parking lot entrance. Try out snowshoeing for free! Simply borrow snowshoes from the state park, since they have 60 pairs of snowshoes available (fits ages 8 up). Advanced registration is not needed, but it is on a first come, first serve basis.
Guided Day Snowshoe Walks
Date: Saturdays Jan 6, 27; Feb 3, 17, 2024
Time: 2:00pm
Guided Night Snowshoe Walks
Date: Jan 27, 2024
Time: 6:00pm
The trail system is well marked and connects all throughout the park so adjusting mileage is simple by combining trails. Most of the trails are rated easy-moderate, although there are some stair climbs, steep inclines and dune climbs. Depending on your mode of adventuring; hiking, snowshoeing or cross country skiing, will dictate which trails would be best. For winter adventures, adding Yaktraxs Hiking Cleats for your shoes or Yaktraxs for your hiking boots help give traction on snow, ice, and rocks.
Ludington Park Trails
After camping and hiking here numerous times, 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.
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: The trailhead starts at Hamlin Lake, parking is available at Hamlin Park. Restrooms are available at the concession (Closed in Winter). There is also a large modern playground nearby if you are visiting with children.
View from the top of the dune
This well marked trail has ample signage and benches located throughout so you can rest and take in the scenic views.
At the top of dunes is a picturesque spot to take a break on the wooden bench, snap a picture and take in the gorgeous view of 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 hike, through the dunes on a sand trail which culminates at Lake Michigan’s beach and lighthouse. 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. It is closed in winter.
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 for snow shoeing and cross-country skiing, the trails feature a combination of wooded pines, sand dune valleys and wetland areas. An abundance of wildlife can be spotted throughout the trail system.
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.
Camping at Ludington
Ludington State Park is gorgeous all year round. We have camped here multiple times for 7 day stretches.
Interested in visiting and camping in the summer or fall, here is a full camping guide, as well as 10 Reasons to Visit Ludington State Park, with activity suggestions and nearby restaurants. Check out the beautiful pictures during summer months. Camping reservations can be made 6 months in advance at Michigan DNR Reservations for State Parks, I highly recommend planning ahead for this popular state park.
Nearby Accommodations
Winter is an ideal time to visit Ludington, Michigan if you’re traveling on a budget since it’s the off seaason, and you can find some great deals on cabins, condos, and hotels. Booking.com makes it simple and easy to start your next vacation! So many options of places to stay from The Ludington House, a historic 1878 Bed & Breakfast, to cozy cottage rentals.
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Happy Trails!
Wondering where you should camp for the Fourth of July to see firework displays in Michigan this year. Look no further! Here is a detailed list of Michigan State Parks and private campgrounds that will help make the 4th of July memorable for your family. The Great Lakes State has plenty of scenic lakes ideal for a beautiful backdrop. Discover which towns host festivals and celebrations in 2024 with parades, kids activities, and firework displays.