Mason County Sculpture Trail
The Mason County Sculpture Trail was launched in 2012 and includes nine sculptures in Ludington, Scottville, and Fountain.
Photo by Craig Sterken
What’s a favorite activity for Hamlin Lake area residents and visitors? With so many things to do, it’s nearly impossible to list them all but one of the favorite pastimes has to be canoeing along the beautiful shoreline of Hamlin Lake.
Within the Ludington State Park, canoeing and kayaking enthusiasts love the Hamlin Lake Canoe Trail- a marked waterway which makes for a wonderful 2-4 hour diversion. The time needed to traverse the trail depends upon skill level and weather conditions, but the 2-4 hour estimate is typical under most circumstances. You can travel the waters by yourself, or take advantage of the guided canoe trips offered through Dune Grass Concessions. A Michigan DNR interpretive specialist will explain the flora, fauna, and history of the area. For more information, call (231) 843-1888.
The Hamlin Lake Canoe Pathway begins and ends at the Hamlin Lake Watercraft Rental/Dune Grass Concessions area near the swimming beach. At the concession you can rent paddle boats, canoes, kayaks, tandem kayaks, stand up paddle boards, and rowboats. Once you have your watercraft, you can cross the river and head into Hamlin Lake. As you travel close to the south shore, you’ll enjoy a variety of landscapes, from a swampy area filled with reeds and cattails, to the “Carp Ponds,” named for the many carp that spawn there in the spring. Within the marshlands along the trail is an excellent habitat for duck, geese, herons, and others.
Near the beginning of the Hamlin Lake Canoe Trail you’ll encounter two large, sandy hills, known as Desperation Point. Local sailors gave it this name because of the unpredictable shifting winds found there. The trail is not demanding for a canoeist with minimal experience, but care should be taken to avoid various submerged tree stumps. Ask about guided canoe trips, where a Michigan DNR interpretive specialist explains the flora, fauna, and history of the area.
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.
Long Skinny Park is located on Lower Hamlin Lake between the South and Middle bayous. Perfect for fishing or taking in the view.
With some of the best fishing and boating around, Hamlin Lake brings much delight as well as some of the most beautiful, scenic backdrops.
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.
Small destinations within themselves, visitors of Hamlin Lake will go on an adventure to find their perfect dune.
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.
The Michigan DNR has announced that Ludington State Park will be closed from September 3rd, 2024-July 1st, 2025 for improvements.
Read about the history of Hamlin Lake, when it was created, and the major role this lake played in the milling industry in Ludington.
The Hamlin Lake Beach within the Ludington State Park is fun for the whole family! With a dedicated, weed-free swimming area and more!
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.
Cast your line into Upper Hamlin Lake or enjoy a picnic, the playground, or watch Hamlin Lake's Independence Fireworks at Wilson Hill Park.
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.
The Mason County Sculpture Trail was launched in 2012 and includes nine sculptures in Ludington, Scottville, and Fountain.
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 Barn Quilt Trail, highlighting the lost art of barn decor, is one of four trails that comprise the Mason County Cultural Trails.
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There are so many things to see and do in Ludington! Don’t miss a single activity during your visit by exploring VisitLudington.com!
The black-and-white striped, 112 foot lighthouse at the Ludington State Park stands proudly on the shores of Lake Michigan.
Ludington is home to several different museums for people of all ages! Highlighting our area’s careers, businesses, history, and culture!
Your pet should feel right at home in Ludington. There are many businesses that allow pets and parks and beaches for them to play on.
The aerial view of Big Sable Point features Hamlin Lake, Ludington State Park, and Big Sable Point Lighthouse on Lake Michigan.
The S.S. Badger Carferry is a fun and relaxing shortcut across Lake Michigan between Ludington, Michigan and Manitowoc, Wisconsin.
Discover small town life in the late 1800s and early 1900s at Historic White Pine Village in Ludington, overlooking Lake Michigan.
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.
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 Ludington Area Center for the Arts (LACA) is the gathering place for community expression through arts and cultural experiences.
Is your business located in Ludington? Contact us today to learn about advertising opportunities with VisitLudington.com.
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