Winter Activities in Ludington, MI

Hiking, Snowshoeing, cross country skiing

The state park is wonderful for hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. There are 18 miles of trails. Some are specifically designated for cross country skiing. The park is beautiful when decked in the snow. It’s so quiet. When on the higher trails such as the Skyline Trail one can see for miles across the lake or over the dunes. Coming soon? Check the weather forecast.

Snowshoe-making class

In November Ludington State Park offer snowshoe-making classes. Participants work on their shoes at the warming shelter and spend the day making a quality pair of snowshoes.

Night hikes at the state park

A fun and free evening activity takes place on selected nights in January and February when the trails are lit with lanterns. Experience the park at night. During the walk hikers will find a warming shelter where they can take a break with other hikers and enjoy a steaming cup of hot chocolate. Mmmm.

Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area

Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area is also a beautiful place to hike but note that trails are not groomed in winter. If snow is deep the trails may be difficult to find and navigate. The Big M Trail and the Pentwater Pathway are favorites for cross-country skiing.

Indoor ice skating

If you enjoy gliding across the ice, Indoor skating is available at the West Shore Community College.

Sledding

“For fun in the snow with just your sled or toboggan, try your luck at various hills and dunes within the Ludington State Park, or Water Tower Hill on South Staffon and Melendy Streets in Ludington.” - visitludington.com

Skiing

About an hour north is Crystal Mountain and  Caberfae Peaks for downhill skiing and snowboarding.

Horseback riding

Head south to New Era (about 32 miles) and try horseback riding, a hay ride or sleigh ride at Rainbow Ranch. These activities of course should be booked ahead since winter hours are often reduced. And if you’re going to New Era, schedule a tour of Country Dairy to see the operations and taste some of their awesome ice cream.

Wagon and sleigh rides

Take an afternoon or day trip north to Fantail Farm, near Benzonia, MI. It’s about 60 to 75 miles north of Ludington, depending on the route. Trails on the 120 acre farm wind up the hills through the woods and around the fields. Owner Susan recommends calling ahead to schedule a sleigh or wagon ride, and then keep in touch on facebook. where they post weather updates. Michigan weather is not always predictable so be flexible. Plan about an hour and twenty minutes at the farm to experience the ride and meet the horses in the barn. They have several wagons and sleighs and up to 4 available time slots per day. While you’re in the area take time to drive through the little towns of Frankfort and Elberta, Benzonia and Beulah. You’ll find shops and restaurants–keep in mind that they are seasonal towns and not everything will be open but you should find a place to eat. Visit the Point Betsie lighthouse in Frankfort..

Fantail Farm : 4700 Wallaker Rd Benzonia MI 49616, 231-930-7216.

Winter sunsets

In late afternoon don’t miss an opportunity to take in a winter sunset with the North Breakwater lighthouse in the scene, right down the street at Stearns Park. The ice on the pier, heavy clouds with the sun poking through,   waves crashing against the pier–no two sunsets look the same. But please be careful, do not walk on the pier when it’s icy or the waves are high.

Sit by the fireplace and relax in the parlor

Sit by the fireplace with a warm beverage. Put on some music. Read or play some games. We’ll have hot chocolate, coffee, tea, and cookies available. We also have a few board games and plenty of table space for playing games. We have books on local history, photography and history of the Cartiers, the family that built this house. Magazines and local newspaper are available as well. Feel free to order take-out and use our dining room. We can supply the dishes and utensils needed.

So you can see, with a little planning the non-summer seasons can also provide a lot of fun in Ludington. Come and stay with us!