In the 1990s, a group of pals set out to promote the wise use of Ludington State Park, one of the best-known “jewels” in the state of Michigan. The park boasts miles of sand dunes, Hamlin Lake, the Sable River, Lake Michigan beaches, and various ecosystems are home to wildlife and visitors.
By organizing a group of volunteers, assessing the park’s needs, and holding regular fundraisers, Friends of the Ludington State Park was born – and it has put Ludington on the map as a place where people of all abilities are welcome to visit.
Visitors to the park will want to experience these park improvements that Friends’ fundraisers have supported:
A handicapped-accessible playground at the Hamlin Beach Picnic Area. The playground was designed to provide accessible routes of travel and inclusive play activities, so that children of all abilities may participate.
A kayak launch on Hamlin Lake, where a person can at the end of a dock seamlessly get into a kayak and onto the lake for an afternoon of paddling. This project followed all requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. Two kayak racks have also been installed.
A new 2-mile protected water trail that is easy for paddlers. From the kayak launch, participants head north along the shoreline of Hamlin Lake. A series of directional signs have been installed to direct paddlers, and maps are available.
Two all-terrain track chairs, which improve access to miles of trails, the 1.8-mile walk (one way) to the iconic Big Sable Point Lighthouse, and beaches to people with mobility challenges. The chairs can be rented at no cost, and a staff member will ensure you have an enjoyable trip around the park.
A universally accessible walkway to Lake Michigan.
A SeeCoast EnChroma Viewer on the Skyline Trail. The installation of this viewer was the first in the state of Michigan using the EnChroma technology for individuals who are color blind. Imagine seeing a Lake Michigan sunset in full color for the first time! A second viewer will be added in 2024 on the Island Trail.
EZ Roller Floating Surf Wheelchair – Located at the Lake Michigan Beach House, this chair travels on sand and in water. Available free on a first-come, first-served basis.
Beach mobility wheelchairs – There are two at the Lake Michigan Beach; two will be added summer 2024 at Hamlin Lake. These mobility wheelchairs that traverse across sand are loaned out free on a first-come, first-served basis.
Beach walker – (Scheduled to arrive by summer 2024) This aluminum all-terrain walker provides stability to individuals walking on sandy beaches or rough terrain. Available to borrow at the Lake Michigan Beach House free on a first-come, first-served basis.
In addition to these projects, FLSP holds weekly musical events at the state park during the summertime. Guided hikes and lantern-lit snowshoe hikes are also part of the group’s endeavors. All of the programming is free to the public. To learn more, head to friendsofludingtonstatepark.org.
Other Accessible Attractions in Ludington
Ludington has other wheelchair-accessible attractions in the area, including:
Cartier Park Pathway – This paved, wheelchair-accessible one-mile loop is a popular in-town trail in a 68-acre natural area.
Ludington Jaycees Mini Golf Course – This course at Stearns Beach is wheelchair accessible.
Port of Ludington Maritime Museum – This state-of-the-art museum in the former U.S. Coast Guard Station is wheelchair accessible, with elevators to all levels and accessible exhibits. Its interactive exhibits about Ludington’s car ferry, U.S. Coast Guard and life-saving history offer a look at the past with artifacts, photographs and audio of those who shaped the region.
Stearns Park Beach – This free downtown beach has three wheelchair-accessible pathways to the Lake Michigan shoreline – at the south, north and middle of the park – with barrier-free picnic tables at the end of each pathway. There also is a free beach wheelchair available on a first-come, first-served basis to cross the sand. Inquire at The Sandbox for information.
Waterfront Park – This 5.3 acre park features a scenic path via paved sidewalk, accessible picnic tables, and accessible bathrooms.
Featured Accessible Lodging
Cartier Mansion Carriage House Suites – Edison Suite, 409 E. Ludington Ave. – The fully accessible, first-floor Edison Suite of the renovated Carriage House at Cartier Mansion features a king-size bed, lift-assist lounge chair, fireplace, coffee bar, mini-fridge, and Smart TV. The bathroom has a roll-in shower, accessible sink and grab bars. cartiermansion.com
