Ludington State Park
Visiting some all the amazing natural treasures of Lake Michigan in the winter means making difficult choices between trying to take in the most scenic options, while being very mindful of fierce —and possibly dangerous— lakefront conditions, daylight, which can quickly change from tantalizing rosy twilight to pitch-black, visibility on the trail in the event of unexpected snow squall, and shifting temperatures.
On a recent trip, we arrived in Ludington from Chicago just before 3pm, which did not give us a lot of time for exploration before sunset. We considered going to the Big Sable Point Lighthouse, possibly by fatbike, but a quick peek at lakefront conditions confirmed that the prevailing winds would make that short trip far from pleasant. Instead, we opted for a hike around Lost Lake, which, in addition to being doable before nightfall and sheltered from wind, was also circular, so we would not have to retrace our steps.
It also turned out to be wonderfully scenic, snaking its way between the larger Hamlin Lake to the east, and Lost Lake to the west. What I imagine are marshy wetlands between the two were frozen solid allowing us to explore tiny shoreline islands and bumps, and remnants of marshy vegetation, which took on startling shapes under the combined assault of water, snow and icy wind.
On our hike, we intersected several other trails that beckoned invitingly, but those will have to wait for another occasion and longer daylight hours.
Ludington SP’s northern border is adjacent to Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness, which is part of Manistee National Forest. Ambitious hikers can access this area directly, and combine the trails that both parks offer for an extended adventure. Driving between the two requires going around Hamlin Lake, a journey of about 40 minutes.
Summary
The park comprises 5300 acres nestled on a wedge of land between Lake Michigan and Hamlin Lake with scenic trails along both.
The park has more than 21 miles of marked hiking trails through dunes, forests and wetlands.
Hamlin Lake and its bordering marshlands offer opportunities for canoe and kayak explorations.
21 miles of marked hiking trails transect the parks dunes, woods and marshland.
Although biking is limited to roads and a relatively short designated trail, bikes are permitted on a 1.5 mile gravel road to Big Sable Point Lighthouse, which is a popular destination for scenic views and tours.
For those seeking solitude, walk-in rustic camping is available in addition to modern camping facilities.
Ludington SP DNR site.