Your Fall Guide to Pure Ludington Colors

Enchanting. Exciting. Memorable.

The changing landscape surrounding inland lakes and rivers, as well as Lake Michigan, has no match when it comes to fall color tours. Beautiful views of red, orange and yellow colors await you in Ludington — and you can take a front-row seat to them all!

Peak colors are predicted for mid-October, when you will want to explore Ludington’s unspoiled natural resources and unrivaled outdoor recreation. Fall is a great time to leave no stone unturned! Whether driving, hiking, biking or paddling, we have opportunities for you to take in the changing scenery and vibrant fall hues.

Here are some of our favorite places and ways to catch fall colors in Pure Ludington:

Driving 

This driving route through Ludington is one that cannot be beat. It starts downtown and takes visitors along the beautiful sands of the Ludington State Park, along country roads dotted with u-pick orchards and farms, past the scenic overlook on South Lakeshore Road and through plenty of colorful tree tunnels.

Also, the County Road Association of Michigan recently cited five Mason County roads in a list of “don’t miss” fall color drives: Lakeshore Drive between Oceana Drive and Iris Road; Hawley Road between Pere Marquette Highway and Walhalla Road; South Masten Road between Washington Road and the Ruby Creek area; North Lakeshore Drive along Hamlin Lake; and Custer Road from Hogue Road to US-10.

Hiking & Biking

Ludington has long been a destination for cyclists and hikers who enjoy exploring the outdoors. The area boasts picturesque, shoreline routes with sand dune panoramas, scenic wooded trails and miles of idyllic, rural country roads.

Biking is a favorite way to discover the many treasures of the Ludington State Park. There

are paved paths and roads running throughout the park and along the Sable River, between the Lake Michigan Beach area and the Hamlin Dam and beach area. For those who are up for an adventure, there is also a 1.8-mile gravel road that will lead you to the Big Sable Point Lighthouse.

Another popular spot to walk or bike is the urban trail system at Cartier Park, located just a mile north of downtown Ludington. The trail system includes a one-mile paved loop and about 3.5 miles of single-track mountain bike paths. Visitors enjoying Cartier Park are treated to serene, wooded surroundings and views of the adjacent, tranquil Lincoln Lake.

Paddling 

Pere Marquette River is one of our favorite spots for paddling adventures anytime of the year, but sights during the fall season are exceptional. The reflection of fall colors dances on the top of the water. There are several spots along the river to drop in, and they are easily accessible to visitors via the Pure Ludington mobile app. A popular span of the river stretches from Custer and Scottville, which takes about three hours to paddle. If you do not have your own gear, there are plenty of outfitters who can get you everything you need to get on the water.

Other popular spots to paddle and take in the fall colors are Hamlin Lake, which is accessible from Ludington State Park, and Lincoln Lake, accessible from M-116 on your way to the State Park.

To sweeten the experience, you can stay at one of the participating hotels to take advantage of 50% off a second-night stay in Ludington. Be sure to share your fall color adventures with us on Instagram using the hashtag #PureLudington.

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