Explore Miles of Trails

For additional local trail-specific information, visit Get Off the Couch.

Waterfront Walkway
Extends from downtown Ludington, through Waterfront Park, to the south end of William Street, north to Stearns Park.

Cartier Park
One-mile paved loop accessible at the intersection of Bryant Rd. & Rath Ave.

Ludington State Park
Eight marked foot trails wind 18 miles through woods and over dunes. Entrance fee.

Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness
This remote area is one of the few wilderness areas in the U.S. with an extensive lake shore dunes ecosystem. It is located along the shore of Lake Michigan and within the Manistee National Forest. Most of the dunes are 3500 to 4000 years old and some stand about 140 feet higher than the lake. The dunes can be reached by hiking 1.5 miles from the trailhead on Nurnberg Rd. From Ludington, take U.S. 10 east to Stiles Rd. and turn north (left). At Townline Rd., turn right and then left on Quarterline Rd. Turn west (left) on Nurnberg Rd. and follow to end. Foot traffic only. Parking fee. More information and maps are available through the Manistee National Forest.

Lake Michigan Recreation Area Take U.S. 31 north from Scottville to Forest Trail Rd. Turn left west), drive about eight miles. Parking fee.

Ludington School Forest Trails
Looping trails located in a wooded, natural setting. Trailhead accessible near the intersection of Tinkham Ave & Sherman. 

Scottville Riverside Park
Take U.S. 10 east to Scottville, turn right at the light and head south. The driveway to the park is on the left, just past Pere Marquette River bridge. Foot traffic only.

North Country National Scenic Trail
A National Scenic Hiking Trail extending through seven northern states, from New York to North
Dakota. Several local trailheads are accessible within the Manistee National Forest. Parking fee.

Local trailheads:
• Lower Branch Bridge, off South Branch Rd. in Branch.
• Timber Creek Campground, east of Branch on U.S. 10
• Free Soil Rd. 9.5 mile drive east of Free Soil. Trailhead is located on south side of the road.

* A Huron-Manistee National Forests' vehicle pass is required at this site. Please contact the appropriate district for complete costs and details.