Here’s one of the very first day trip’s my husband and I ever took – a winter day trip to Ludington. This trip is memorable due to it being somewhat spontaneous (ya know, back before kids). At the time, we needed to get out of the house. My husband suggested we go someplace I was familiar with but new to him. Growing up, I used to camp every summer in Ludington so even without a map, I’m somewhat familiar with the area. So we threw all the winter attire in the car and headed out!
We decided to embrace the winter and outdoors during this day trip. This also makes it a wonderful idea of something to do during the COVID-era. Before COVID, one thing I’ve always enjoyed about exploring during the winter is aloneness. During the summer, trails, beaches and parking are packed with visitors. But in winter, you’re almost guaranteed having a trail to yourself for much (or all) of the journey. Plus the trees are beautiful when covered in snow!
~ Winter Day Trip to Ludington Map ~
~ Winter Day Trip to Ludington Summary ~
When: Saturday in winter
Why: My husband wanted us to visit a place that was familiar to me, but new to him.
Time Traveled (one way): 1.5 hours from Grand Rapids, 3.5 hours from Detroit, 2 hours from Kalamazoo, 2 hours from Lansing, 2 hours from Traverse City
Time Spent at Destination: 3 hours, 15 minutes
Budget: $ – gas & a meal
What we did during our Day Trip:
It’s interesting to see how my day trips evolved over the years! This day trip was spontaneous and relatively simple. Our only goal at the time was to get outside. So we ended up checking out Lake Michigan around the Ludington State Park first.
Then we drove a little deeper into the campground area of the State Park. From there we decided to hike the beautiful Lost Lake Trail, which is about a two mile loop. To wrap up this day trip, we headed to House of Flavors for dinner (and ice cream!).
Other Things to Explore in Ludington:
There are two lighthouses to explore in Ludington – Big Sable Point Lighthouse and the Ludington Breakwater Lighthouse.
If you’re interested in history, there’s a ton of interesting historic places to check out including the Historic White Pine Village, Father Marquette Memorial Cross, and Port of Ludington Museum.
Take the kids to Sandcastle’s Children’s Museum or Amber Elk Ranch.
Explore one or all of the beautiful parks in Ludington! Some waterfront (or nearby) parks include Stearns Park, Waterfront Park, and Sutton’s Landing.
Grab a beer from an area brewery like Jamesport Brewing, Ludington Bay Brewing, or Starving Artist Brewing.
~ Winter Day Trip to Ludington Details ~
Explore Ludington State Park
Our first stop was to Ludington State Park. During winter, there is no issue finding parking, even in a small state park lot. Every year, we purchase a state park pass whenever we renew our vehicle tags. However, during winter, there’s never anyone around checking them.
After we arrived, we walked around, took in the lake, and climbed the sand and snow swirled dunes. Being right on Lake Michigan when it’s windy in the winter is difficult! The wind makes the weather feel ten times colder! So after briefly exploring, we decided to head deeper into the State Park to check out a hiking trail not near the big lake.
Lost Lake Trail
Once parked, we decided to hike the 2 mile looping Lost Lake Trail. Lost Lake is a part of Hamlin Lake but with marshy swamps, tiny peninsulas, and boardwalks keeping it somewhat separate.
One of the first things we noticed was that this area is so dang pretty! And quiet! And peaceful! There weren’t many others exploring this trail when we visited. This little day trip truly felt like we escaped the hustle of everyday life. The cold wind near Lake Michigan wasn’t present by Lost Lake. It felt like time stood still as we walked around this lake. Everywhere we looked was a beautiful view.
A neat thing about this trail is the amount of boardwalks there are – some with stairs. We didn’t see where flooding may be any issue given how near to the water this trail is. Also, the boardwalks with stairs provide a neat overlook! If you need to take a break during the hike, there are a number of benches. These benches are situated in scenic overlook areas so you can appreciate the view.
Since we did this hike a few years ago, this is one I fondly remember as a favorite. It is a perfect hike for beginners or intermediates, but with it’s gorgeous views, I’m sure all hiking levels would enjoy it!
House of Flavors
To wrap up our snowy and slippery adventure, we stopped by House of Flavors Ludington. During summers in high school, my friends and I would challenge ourselves to eat a whole pig trough worth of ice cream. On this day though, we stuck to hot cocoa and warm sandwiches. Because this is House of Flavors, each entree comes with a single scoop of their delicious ice cream. No matter what season you visit, I recommend House of Flavors – especially for their ice cream!
Due to Covid, House of Flavors remains takeout and delivery only now until an unspecified time in April 2021. They intend to announce reopening their dining room later in spring. However, do not let that stop you from indulging in their food takeout style after a hike! I recommend warming up with a hot turkey sandwich. Take your to go and park near Stearns Park to enjoy the views of Lake Michigan a little longer!
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Have you ever gone on a spontaneous adventure in the winter? What did you do and see during your time at the destination?
from Michigan with Love,
Jackie
